The true cost of owning a pet

With 49% of UK adults* owning a pet we certainly are a nation of animal lovers. There are approximately 11.1 million cats and 8.9 million dogs who are currently sharing our homes.

A recent survey* showed that the cost of ownership of our much loved pets is still underestimated. In this article I want to raise awareness that it’s not just about the money when we are considering pet ownership.

Do you own a pet whether it be a dog/cat or rabbit? Are you like me and feel that you are forever visiting the pet shop stocking up on their food? Are you having frequent visits to your veterinary surgeon and are worried about the fees mounting up? Have you ever stopped to think what this is all costing….? Do you know how much on average your pets cost you per month?

Worryingly the survey flagged up that 69% of dog owners and 88% of cat owners underestimated these costs.

The estimated minimum monthly cost was:

Dog = £70-105 depending on size

Cat  = £70

Rabbit =  £35

A worrying proportion surveyed thought that it would cost about £20!!

So over a lifetime you are looking at a cost of:

Dog = £6500-£17000

Cat = £12000

Rabbit = £3500

These costs didn’t include initial purchasing of the pet or ongoing veterinary fees. So these figures could go up even higher.

So if you are considering a pet what could you do to help bring the cost down? It’s always worth chatting to friends and family to see if they have anything they don’t need ie food/bowls/hutches that they would be happy to donate you. Chat through where they shop and compare costs of your essential items ie food/vet fees.

HOWEVER as well as the cost of keeping a pet I would actually ask yourself,

“Can I give the time and commitment it takes to provide a pet with a happy and healthy life? “

It takes a lot of dedication to ensure that the 5 welfare needs are met:

To be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease

To live in a suitable environment

To be housed with or apart from other animals

To be able to exhibit normal behaviour patterns

To have a suitable diet

So please do your research if you are considering getting a pet or even adding to your menagerie. It’s not just about giving your pet a roof over their head….there is more to it than that.

*All survey figures obtained from the PDSA Paw Report 2018

For help and advice with your pet, please get in touch.