How Much Does it Really Cost to Own a Pet?
Updated April 13, 2026
Key Takeaways
- Owning a pet usually costs more than people expect: Most of the expenses come from things like food, insurance, and vet visits, rather than the price you pay to get the pet.
- How much you spend depends a lot on the kind of pet you have: Some pets cost less, but even those that are easier to care for still need regular spending. Cost is important, but it’s not the only thing to think about.
- If you plan ahead, it’s easier to handle the costs of having a pet: Budgeting, getting insurance, or finding small ways to save can help you manage your money without cutting back on your pet’s care.
We all love our pets. Whether you grew up with animals or are welcoming a new four-legged friend, pets give us so much in return. I still remember bringing my dog home and how quickly it transformed my life for the better. But there’s something we don’t talk about enough: love doesn’t cover the vet bills.
Owning a pet is a long-term financial commitment that many of us underestimate. According to the latest data from the PDSA, over 40% of UK pet owners say having a pet costs more than they expected, and 51% worry about the price of veterinary care. This isn’t surprising, given that the average cost of a vet consultation is £61.99, according to ManyPets research.
Food, insurance, grooming, training, and emergency care all cost money. A PetLifeCalc guide highlights that even a typical dog can cost between £1,000 and £2,500 a year, and that’s before any unexpected expenses. That’s why it’s important to start pet ownership with your eyes and your budget wide open. I’d never be without mine, but pets are one of the biggest ongoing expenses many of us take on without fully realising it.
This guide will explain what it really costs to own a pet in the UK and how to make it work for your budget without compromising on care.
What’s in Savoo’s Guide to the Cost of Owning a Pet
- The cost of owning a dog
- The cost of owning a cat
- Indoor vs outdoor cats: How costs compare
- The cost of owning a rabbit
- The cost of owning a fish
- 5 smart ways to save money on your dog
- How to save with other pets
- Support animal charities for free when you use our voucher codes
- Final thoughts: The true cost (and value) of owning a pet
- Cost of pets frequently asked questions
The cost of owning a dog
Photo by Victor G on Unsplash
With approximately 13.5 million pet canines, we’re a nation of dog lovers. I know this firsthand because I often plan my whole day around walking my furry friend. About 57% of households have a pet, and dogs are the UK’s favourite pet. But even though dogs bring us so much joy, many people don’t realise how much they actually cost.
The PDSA estimates that the lifetime cost of owning a dog ranges from £5,200 for small breeds to over £15,700 for large breeds. It’s not just food and the occasional toy to consider. There are vaccinations, flea treatments, replacing chewed beds (sometimes more than once), and surprise vet visits that always seem to come at the worst time.
Boarding is one expense that surprises many dog owners. When you’re going on holiday, the cost of care can quickly add up. A recent Statista report revealed that just two weeks of dog boarding can cost about £450 a year, making it one of the biggest expenses for owners. If you don’t have friends or family to help, it’s often something you can’t avoid.
So before you fall for those puppy eyes, let’s look at the main costs every dog owner should expect.
Initial dog ownership costs
Getting a pooch may not seem like it’ll cost much at first sight. You can adopt a dog for £250 from shelters like Dog's Trust or £175 for dogs over six months old from Battersea Dogs Home, and between £200 and £275 from the RSPCA.
The benefit of adopting or rehoming a dog is that they come fully vaccinated, microchipped, neutered, and will have had a full vet check. Your new pup will also come with a collar, a starter pack of food, a lead and a month’s worth of insurance to get you started.
However, if you opt to buy a dog from a breeder, it can cost anywhere between £400 and as high as £15,000 for rare or pedigree breeds. PDSA have listed a total breakdown of how much it costs to own a dog over their lifetime, based by the size of their breed:
- Small dog breeds: At least £5,200 - £10,000.
- Medium dog breeds: At least £7,500 - £11,800.
- Large dog breeds: At least £6,900 - £15,700.
The RSPCA has also created a Pet Cost Calculator to provide you with an accurate breakdown of costs for owning a dog or a cat, based on their species, size, and breed. For example, the estimated cost of owning a medium-sized dog such as a Cockapoo totals between £71-241 per month, when you consider:
- Food: £20 - £80 a month.
- Grooming: £35 - £47 a month.
- Insurance: £7 - £40 a month.
- Routine Health Care: £11 - £14 a month.
- Poo Bags: £3 - £10 a month.
- Toys: £1 - £50 per month.
The dog essentials
Microchipping your dog usually costs about £14.50, though the price can range from £10 to £30. This covers both the chip and registration. In the UK, it’s required by law, and not microchipping your dog could mean a £500 fine. Most importantly, microchipping makes it much easier for your dog to be returned to you if it ever gets lost.
Once you’ve covered the initial admin costs, you’ll start spending on everyday essentials. Things like food, bowls, beds, leads, and toys, plus replacements for anything your dog chews up. Food is the most regular expense. Depending on your dog’s size and the brand you pick, you’ll probably spend £30 to £50 each month, or about £300 to £500 a year.
You’ll also need to budget for routine healthcare. Puppy vaccinations usually cost between £40 and £70, and yearly boosters can be up to £50. In addition, regular flea and worm treatments and general health checks can cost between £50 and £350 a year. The price depends on whether you choose pay-as-you-go treatments or a vet plan.
Getting a washable dog bed was one of the best decisions I made. My dog seems to find mud no matter the weather, and I used to think I’d have to replace his bed every few months once it started looking worn. Now I just throw the cover in the wash, and it comes up like new. It’s saved me a tidy amount of money in not buying replacements.
Dog insurance
It's important to set aside some money for emergencies, so you're ready if something unexpected happens. If your dog gets hurt or sick, you want to make sure you can pay for their care.
Go Compare says dog insurance can cost anywhere from £5 to over £120 a month. For dogs aged one to five, the average yearly cost is about £228. The good news is that there are many pet insurance options available to fit different budgets, so it's easy to find a fair quote that helps protect your pet. Remember, these costs usually go up as your dog gets older.
Your postcode also affects how much you pay, with urban areas being slightly pricier.
Extras for dogs
Many of us need to consider the cost of doggy daycare or similar services if the workplace is not dog-friendly. Daycare can be a great way to keep your dog happy and social, and some even include training classes. However, with average prices ranging from £20 to £45 a day, these costs can add up quickly.
Other expenses include pet grooming, which can cost between £20 and £100, as well as dog walking, which averages £11.25 per walk. If you go on holiday and can't take your dog, kennels usually cost around £30 per day. Some dogs might also need training classes, but experienced owners may be comfortable training their dogs at home.
The overall cost of dog ownership
The lifetime cost of owning a dog in the UK can vary a lot depending on its size, breed, and health. Still, most people find that it ends up costing more than they thought.
According to PDSA, the minimum lifetime cost of a dog ranges from £4,600 to £30,800, depending on factors such as size and lifespan. Recent UK reports suggest that most dogs cost between £12,000 and £30,000 over their lifetimes, and yearly costs are still rising.
In my experience, the first few weeks make it clear how fast the costs add up. You need to buy leads, beds, insurance, and pay for that first vet visit all at once. And the expenses don’t stop there.
Even if you end up spending thousands over your dog’s life, having a dog in your family is usually worth it. Still, it’s important to spend your money wisely, so always look for a better pet deal!
The cost of owning a cat
Photo by Ayako on Unsplash
Unsurprisingly, owning a cat is generally cheaper than owning a dog. It’s something I’ve heard more than once from friends trying to justify “just one more pet." And in many ways, it’s true. Cats are smaller, typically cost less to adopt or buy, and are usually cheaper to feed.
Cats are also much more independent. Unlike dogs, they don’t need daily walks, daycare, or someone to be home all the time. These differences can really affect your monthly budget, especially if you work long hours or travel a lot.
But just because cats are cheaper doesn’t mean they’re cheap. They still have many of the same basic costs as dogs. You’ll need to plan for food, litter, vaccinations, yearly boosters, microchipping, insurance, and toys, even if your cat prefers the cardboard box. And while cats might need less day-to-day care, vet bills can be just as high if something goes wrong.
So, while a cat might seem like the cheaper choice at first, it’s still a long-term financial commitment. It just tends to be a bit less demanding each month.
Initial cat ownership costs
Adopting a cat from the RSPCA costs between £100 and £150, depending on the cat’s age, breed, and special needs. As with dogs, the felines come fully vaccinated and microchipped from a rescue centre, along with one month’s free insurance. On Pets4Homes, you can sometimes get a cat for free or as little as £10, but for rare breeds and pedigrees such as Maine Coon kittens, prices can go into the thousands!
According to Anrich Vets, the average cost of a kitten's initial vaccinations is around £75. In contrast, neutering costs between £40 and £100, microchipping costs between £10 and £30, and annual boosters and jabs cost between £40 and £65 a year.
The cat essentials
Cat food works out cheaper than the cost for dogs, but still comes to around £100 – £200 a year, and can be up to £36 per month depending on the food you opt for and whether you’ve got a picky eater.
Extras like a cat basket, collar, litter tray, toys and a bed will usually cost around £200 a year. But costs quickly add up. Analysis by Cats Protection shows that 5% of UK cat owners have had to cut their spending on cat necessities, such as cat food and litter, due to financial concerns.
Catteries only cost £5-£30 a day when you’re going on holiday.
Cat insurance
The average monthly cost of cat insurance ranges from £7 to £10, and lifetime cover can be estimated at around £125 per year.
It’s worth noting that, like dogs, cats have vastly varying personalities. Some may prefer indoor house cats, who may need cat litter and more toys to keep them busy, but are less likely to get fleas, be injured, or get lost, unlike outdoor cats.
How much you spend on things like insurance and everyday necessities depends on your cat's personality. For example, if you need to buy more expensive food for picky eaters or install a cat flap, these could make them more expensive to look after.
The overall cost of cat ownership
Overall, PDSA estimates that the lifetime cost of owning a cat in the UK is at least £11,000, although this can rise depending on their health, lifestyle and how long they live.
That last point is important. While cats may seem cheaper each month, they are a long-term responsibility. Many cats live into their late teens, and some reach their twenties. Over time, small regular costs like food, litter, insurance, and vet care can add up. Over 15 to 20 years, these expenses add up to a significant total.
Just like with dogs, the real financial commitment comes from ongoing costs. In my experience helping friends budget for pets, the upfront cost is rarely the problem. It’s the long-term spending that often catches people off guard.
The good news is that with some planning and smart money-saving habits, you can keep these costs under control without sacrificing your cat’s care.
The cost of owning a rabbit
Photo by Erik-Jan Leusink on Unsplash
If you want a pet that’s easier on your budget, rabbits are often considered a good compromise. They’re smaller than cats and dogs, usually cost less to adopt, and their daily expenses are often lower. This can make them a good choice if you’re watching your spending.
However, many people don’t realise the true costs of owning a rabbit. Rabbits might look like a low-maintenance pet, but unlike cats and dogs, rabbits need a well-prepared living space, such as a roomy hutch, an indoor pen, or a safe outdoor run. Rabbits always need plenty of hay, which should be most of what they eat, along with fresh vegetables and pellets.
You’ll also need to consider healthcare costs. Rabbits need vaccinations, can have dental problems, and often require exotic animal vets, who may charge more than regular vets.
Rabbits might cost less than dogs or cats overall, but they still require a significant outlay.
Initial rabbit ownership costs
Rabbits are generally affordable to bring home, but your initial costs depend on where you get them. Adopting from a rescue centre usually costs around £40 for one rabbit or £60 for a bonded pair. This is often the cheapest option since the rabbits are typically already neutered and vaccinated, saving you money on early vet bills.
Buying from a pet shop or breeder often costs a bit less at first, usually between £15 and £55. However, this can end up costing more overall. You’ll need to pay for vaccinations (about £50-£70 each year) and neutering, which can cost £80-£250 depending on your vet and the procedure.
Keep in mind that rabbits are social animals and are happiest with a companion, so you’ll rarely be buying just one. This means you’ll need to budget for double the initial costs right from the beginning.
The rabbit essentials
People are often surprised by how much the basics for a rabbit can cost. While buying the rabbit isn’t usually expensive, most of your early spending will go toward creating a safe and comfortable home. You’ll need things like a sturdy hutch or indoor enclosure, a run, bedding, bowls, hay feeders, and some toys to keep your rabbit entertained.
The hutch itself will cost you at least £75, with hay for the month costing between £10 and £25. You can buy the vegetables during your own grocery shop, but expect to spend around £20 a month, plus £55 for pellets. As the price of fresh food continues to rise, rabbit food is a cost that is only going in one direction.
Rabbit insurance
Rabbits run less risk of being injured in the same way as cats and dogs since they’re kept in the home, meaning insurance is an affordable £7 to £18 a month.
The overall cost of rabbit ownership
When you factor in food, housing, vaccinations and insurance, the average cost of owning a rabbit typically comes to around £500 to £1,000 a year. That is far cheaper than cats and dogs, and for many households, it can feel like a much more manageable monthly commitment.
Rabbits can live 8 to 12 years or more, so while the yearly cost might feel low, it’s still a long-term financial commitment. Like any pet, rabbits still require consistent spending, proper care, and a realistic budget to ensure they live a happy, healthy life.
The cost of owning a fish
Photo by mik scho on Unsplash
Fish are a great choice for people who live in places where other pets are not allowed or for those on a tight budget. They are relaxing to watch and look beautiful, which makes them popular with many pet owners.
However, the initial cost of setting up a fish tank can add up quickly, depending on how many fish you want and the type and size of tank you choose. Still, caring for fish over time usually costs much less than looking after dogs, cats, or rabbits.
initial fish ownership costs
Unlike the other pets on the list, it’s rare to buy just one fish. Most fish owners have a few fish in their collection, with tropical fish owners often having a beautiful selection in the double digits.
Classic fish, like goldfish, cost only a couple of pounds, whereas tropical fish range in price depending on the type of fish and how many you buy. For example, the blue Neon Tetra, a popular tropical fish, can cost £0.50 each, £0.45 each when you buy 50, or £0.40 each when you buy 100.
The fish essentials
Monthly essentials for fish won’t set you back much. A box of fish food usually costs around £5.99 at most and will last you a long time as it’s dry and fish don’t eat very much. Most of the costs of owning fish come down to maintenance, namely keeping the tank clean and ensuring their aquarium environment is right for them to stay happy and healthy.
Depending on the size of tank you need, and whether it needs to support coldwater or tropical fish, it can cost anything between £36 for a basic tank to £600 for a big, top-of-the-range aquarium. Cleaning essentials will cost another £25, while bonus tank accessories, such as live plants and aquascaping, could cost £40-£50.
Fish insurance
You won’t need to worry about vet bills and insurance like you do with other pets, but as a fish’s lifespan is considerably shorter than cats, dogs and rabbits you won’t get to enjoy their company for as long.
The overall cost of fish ownership
Fish may cost less to buy and feed than other pets, but they often need more care because of their specific environment. While you won’t pay for insurance, setting up and maintaining their tank can get expensive and requires regular attention. If you want a lively group of tropical fish, be sure you have enough time to care for them.
A fish might only cost a few pounds, but you should also think about the cost of replacing them if they die naturally or because of tank problems. Still, fish are the most affordable pet option so far.
5 smart ways to save money on your dog
As a dog owner myself, I’ve picked up a few practical ways to keep costs under control without compromising on my dog’s care. These are the tips I genuinely use day to day, and they’ve made a real difference to my budget.
Adopt a dog from a trusted pet organisation instead of buying one. You’ll save money on upfront costs and vet fees, and you’ll also give a dog in need a loving home. It’s a win for everyone!
Cut weekly costs with easy habits like buying own-brand dog food in bulk and making homemade treats. You can always utilise the freezer to extend the shelf life of pre-prepared dog food.
If you’re going on holiday, ask friends or family to look after your dog. For dog walking or pet sitting, try affordable sites like BorrowMyDoggy.com or Rover. These sites connect you with local dog lovers who will care for your pet for a small fee or at a lower rate than kennels.
It’s great to treat your dog, but keep an eye on your spending. If your dog prefers an old stuffed toy over new ones, you probably don’t need to buy more expensive goodies.
Groom your dog at home instead of paying for grooming services, and train them yourself to keep them safe. If you have more than one pet, many insurance companies offer multi-pet discounts to help you save even more.
How to save with other pets
Whether you have a cat, rabbit, fish or something a little more unusual, many of my money-saving tips work for them too. For example, if you collect reward points when shopping for groceries, you can often unlock pet deals and discounts. Check out our guides on How To Get a Nectar Card and 10 Surprising Ways to Use Tesco Clubcard Vouchers.
These additional tips focus on making smarter choices, cutting unnecessary spending, and getting better value. This way, you can manage your budget no matter what kind of pet you have at home.
- Make your own toys or keep it simple with basic tennis balls and bits of string.
- Train your pet to help keep them safe.
- Claim insurance discounts for multiple pets, plus discounts from companies like Argos Pet Insurance.
- Make small lifestyle changes, so you have some extra cash to spend on your pets (e.g. skip your morning takeaway coffee and put aside what you save into a ‘just in case’ savings account).
- Use pet voucher codes from Savoo to save money at top brands like Pets at Home, VioVet, Christie’s Direct and many more.
- Don’t buy flea worming treatment, etc., at the vets. Just get the prescription, then buy online to save money. There are often discount codes for pet medication stores like Pet Drugs Online.
Support animal charities for free when you use our voucher codes
You can help animals in need by supporting great charities, even if you’re not adopting a pet. Just create a Savoo account and check out our charity directory to find a cause you care about, like Blue Cross or Cats Protection.
When you use our voucher codes to save money, we donate to your chosen charity, so you give back at no extra cost. You can also help by using our Search, Save and Raise search engine. For every search, we donate a penny to your charity. With all the searches you do each day, from checking the weather to looking up dog toys, those pennies can add up quickly.
Why not start now? Shop your favourite brands and help support a charity you care about with every purchase.
Where can I get online pet discounts?
Savoo brings together trusted partners who offer discount codes and deals on pet essentials. Whether you need food, toys, insurance, or accessories, you can find reliable retailers in one spot. With Savoo, you can save time and money without searching different sites.
Final thoughts: The true cost (and value) of owning a pet
Don’t worry, this guide isn’t about putting you off getting a pet. It’s just important to be fully aware of the responsibility you’re taking on. As most pet owners will tell you, the love and companionship you get back from your beloved pet will absolutely make all the costs worth it.
When you know the real cost of having a pet, you can make choices that fit your life and your budget. Having a dog has been one of the best parts of my life, and it’s made me think more about how I spend my money. Finding the right balance is important. It’s not about spending the least, but about spending wisely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to pay for an animal?
In most cases, you will need to pay to get a pet, either by paying an adoption fee or buying from a breeder or pet shop. Adoption is usually less expensive, often costing between £50 and £250 depending on the animal, and it often includes vaccinations, microchipping or neutering.
Even if the initial cost is low or sometimes free, you still need to plan for ongoing expenses like food, vet care, insurance and equipment. These regular costs make up most of what you will spend on owning a pet.
What if I can't afford a vet bill?
If you’re struggling to pay a vet bill, charities like the PDSA, Blue Cross, or RSPCA may be able to help with low-cost or free treatment for qualifying pets. Some vets also offer payment plans or prioritise the most urgent care first to help lower your immediate costs, so it’s a good idea to ask about your options.
To prevent this problem, many pet owners get insurance or set aside an emergency fund, usually between £500 and £1,500. Planning ahead is important because vet bills can be high, and treatment might be delayed if you can’t pay right away.
Do people on benefits get money for dogs?
There isn’t a UK benefit that gives extra money just for owning a dog or other pets. Standard benefits like Universal Credit are meant to cover general living costs, so you’ll need to pay for pet expenses from your usual budget.
Prices for holiday lets usually go up when demand is high. For example, during the May half-term, cottages can cost almost as much as they do in the summer.
Some charities and organisations can help pet owners on low incomes. For example, the PDSA and Blue Cross offer cheaper vet care. Local food banks or pet charities might also give pet food or other essentials if you need extra help.