Owning a Cat or Dog Now Costs at Least $20,000

So you’re picking up poop at 6AM and breaking the bank on “gourmet” kibble — but did you know just how much that furry little freeloader is costing you?

According to a brand-new study, the price tag for owning a cat or dog in 2025 is WAY higher than most people think.

When asked to estimate how much it costs to raise a pet over 15 years, most people guessed:

• $5,735 for a cat

• $8,158 for a dog

But reality check? Those numbers are laughably low.

The real cost?

• Cats: $20,000 to $47,000

• Dogs: $22,000 to almost $61,000

That’s over $1,300 per year for a cat, and at least $1,500 per year for a dog.
Even something like a rabbit can rack up $1,000+ a year in expenses!

Between rising vet bills, better-quality food, grooming, insurance, toys, and whatever that bougie pet stroller was, it adds up fast.

Costs have spiked in recent years too:

• Dog ownership is up 12%

• Cat care jumped 19%

And while having multiple pets can save a bit per animal, don’t count on it making a huge dent.

But don’t worry — no one’s giving up their fur babies anytime soon. More than 75% of pet owners say their animal is their best friend, their child, or their ride-or-die. (Okay, maybe not that last one, but you get the vibe.)

So the next time you find your favorite pair of sneakers chewed up, just remember:
You're not raising a dog.
You're raising a luxury lifestyle.