The Cost of Owning a Pet

When people plan on getting a dog, a cat or any other animal, they tend to think only about all the positives of owning a pet. They think about the unconditional love. They think about fetch in the back yard. They think about cuddling on the couch. What they don’t think about, is how much owning a pet costs! It can be very expensive and is something to consider before you go pick up a new fury friend from the pound.

Looking at First Year Expenses

The first year you own a pet you are going to be facing a number of one-time expenses. Initial veterinary visits, combined with vaccinations, and spaying/neutering alone can add up to several hundred dollars. This does not take into account all the additional purchases you will have to make when you first bring a pet into your home. You also need to buy water and food dishes. If you own a dog, you need to purchase a leash and a collar. Don’t forget training! You are accountable for all of your dog actions. You need to make sure it is well behaved. If you own a cat you need to buy a litter box. Cats are lower maintenance. Expenses will mount quickly, don’t be surprised if you have to fork over $1,000 + in the first year of pet ownership.

Reoccurring Expenses

The primary reoccurring expense associated with pet ownership is that of food. You can expect to spend about $250 dollars a year buying food for one dog, and about $200 for one cat. Cats also need a year’s worth of littler, which will be around $200 as well. Once you add up vet visits, pet health insurance, and miscellaneous expenses like toys, you can budget out about $800 for annual pet expenses.