Do I spend too much on my pet?

How much do people spend on pets per year?

The average US dog owner spends about $1,533/year, while cat owners spend about $1,150/year (APPA 2023). The total US pet industry is worth $143 billion — Americans spend more on pets than on alcohol.

Average annual pet costs (US, APPA 2023)

• Dog: $1,533/year (food: $580, vet: $380, supplies: $290, grooming: $140, other: $143)
• Cat: $1,150/year (food: $420, vet: $320, supplies: $230, litter: $110, other: $70)
• Fish: $400/year
• Bird: $700/year
• Small pet (hamster, guinea pig): $500/year

Hidden costs people forget

• Pet insurance: $50–100/month (growing fast)
• Emergency vet visits: Can easily hit $2,000–5,000
• Boarding/pet sitting: $50–75/night for dogs
• Lifetime cost: Dogs average $15,000–30,000 over their life