In 2024, owning a furry companion can bring immense joy and companionship, but it also comes with its own set of financial responsibilities. Whether you’re a devoted dog enthusiast or a committed cat lover, understanding the costs involved is crucial for providing your pet with the best care possible. Using Rover’s recent report on the cost of pet parenthood in 2024, we broke down the costs of having a furry friend.
How Much Does A Cat Cost Per Year?
Once your cat is all settled in, it’s important to factor in the costs you can expect to pay each year. According to Rover, these costs usually total between $930-$2,400 annually for the average cat parent. When it comes to upfront fees, you can expect costs to range from $1,875–$3,345 in the first year. Let’s evaluate the numbers.
Overview
Annual costs for the essentials can range from $930 on the low end to $2,400 on the high end. For cat parents who like to splurge, the optional extras cost between $1,075 and $3,995 per year. If you have an older cat or a kitty in end-of-life care, you could spend anywhere from $1,035 to $4,110 on their particular needs. Most cat owners spend approximately $140 per month.
Food
Cat parents can anticipate spending between $520 and $1,450 on food, depending on the brand, type of food, and how much their cat needs to eat. Some pet food companies offer subscription services that provide discounts and convenience for regular deliveries, while others cater to felines with certain dietary preferences and restrictions, though this often comes at an added cost.
Litter
Litter is a necessity for any cat parent. It typically costs between $265 and $660 a year, but these costs can fluctuate depending on the type and brand of litter.
Toys
Cat toys are essential tools for keeping your furry friend mentally stimulated and physically active. They can cost anywhere from around $5 to $115 a year, depending on what kind of toy your cat prefers, the brand, and how often you decide to purchase one.
Visits to the Vet
In 2024, your kitty’s annual check-up will cost around $140-$175, and emergency visits, which may involve services such as emergency surgeries, X-rays, or imaging, could potentially cost upwards of $2,000.
How Much Does a Dog Cost Per Year?
If you’re more of a dog person, what can you expect from your new pup? According to Rover, the annual costs of owning a dog can range from $965 to upwards of $4,000. In terms of upfront fees, bringing home a new dog can cost you anywhere from $2,465 to $4,770 in the first year. Let’s take a closer look at the numbers.
Overview
In 2024, the upfront costs of bringing a pup into the family were 44% higher than last year. Rover reports that the average dog owner may spend up to $965 to $4,020 per year on their dog, which averages out to be about $80 to $335 per month, a 55% increase since 2023. The rising costs can be attributed to increasing prices of food, toys, and other goods.
Food
Dog parents can expect to spend anywhere from $540 to $2,815 annually on food. The exact amount depends on a number of factors, such as the brand, how much your dog eats, and whether you buy dry or canned food. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations on the best dog food for your pet’s specific needs to potentially reduce long-term health costs.
Treats and Toys
While treats can be a big incentive when training your dog, toys are a great investment to keep it engaged and entertained. The former can cost the average dog parent about $20 to $540 a year, while the latter usually costs between $5 and $55 per year, depending on the quality and quantity.
Flea and Tick Prevention
This is a critical health cost to consider for your pup, and it averages from $200 to $345 a year, depending on your dog’s weight.
Visits to the Vet
Routine visits to the vet are especially important during the first year of owning a puppy to ensure its health, proper growth, and vaccines. These visits typically cost between $140 and $175.
Poop Bags
These cost about $60-$90 a year, depending on your dog’s size and your personal preferences.
When it comes to both cats and dogs, remember that discount stores aren’t just for humans – consider visiting your local Winners or Marshalls to buy some brand new pet gear at a lower cost or checking out Facebook marketplace for secondhand items like crates, beds or bowls.
Whether you’re considering welcoming a new furry friend into your home or seeking ways to optimize care for your current companions, remember that every dollar invested in their health and happiness pays off in wagging tails, purrs, and cherished memories.
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