The Costs of Owning a Pet

Updated: December 10, 2022

Owning a pet has a lot of emotional benefits. However, it can be expensive to have one. If you’re thinking of getting a pet, then you should seriously take a look at your budget first.

Moreover, always reconsider if you’re giving a pet as a gift to a friend or loved one. Because your good intentions might ruin their cash flow.

Below are the costs of owning a pet. Particularly, these are expenses you’ll incur for having a dog or a cat. By being aware, you’ll be more financially prepared to welcome a new furry member of your family.

1. Adoption Fee

Adopting a pet is better than buying one. But it’s not always free. Local shelters use the money from adoption fees to sustain their operations.

2. Veterinary Expense

Medical check-ups for pets are important. The moment you get a pet, it is advisable to bring them immediately to a veterinarian to inspect their health and wellness.

Typically, you’ll have to spend for the check-ups, vaccines, and other common procedures such as de-worming.

3. Food

This is the most significant cost of owning a pet. While dogs and cats can subsist on table food, it is not recommended because these lack the proper nutrients that they require.

The best way to save money on pet food is to buy in bulk. But also, know the proper amount of food they need as advised by your veterinarian to avoid overfeeding them.

Lastly, it is also possible to make your own pet food. There are free recipes and video tutorials online that can teach you how.

4. Vitamins

Like people, pets will have times when they won’t feel well. Usually, pet vitamins are the first thing that vets prescribe when this happens.

However, for puppies and kittens, in particular, you’ll most likely have to provide them vitamins to aid their immune system and help them grow strong and healthy.

5. Grooming

Another costly part of owning a pet is grooming. Fur maintenance and nail cutting need to be done regularly. Of course, you can try to learn how to groom them yourself, to save on costs. But you’ll need to buy the tools to do them.

6. Supplies

Regular pet expenses will also include their hygiene supplies such as soap and shampoo. There’s also leashes, feeding bowls, litter box, toys, among others.

In Summary

It’s great to own a pet. Numerous studies have already proven their positive effects on a person’s life. But make sure that they won’t be a source of financial stress.

Talk to your friends who are also pet owners and get an estimate on how much it costs them to take care of their pet. Knowing those figures will help you plan and prepare your budget.

Any other cost of pet ownership that I didn’t mention? Share them below in the comments section.

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