💵 Yearly cost

Guide: what it really costs to own a pet

What this calculator does

The yearly cost calculator adds up all the expenses of owning a dog, cat or bird so you know how much you'll spend per year. It's very useful before adopting, for a family budget or to see where the money goes.

Many people only think about food, but some costs are easy to forget: vaccines, parasite prevention, litter, toys, grooming, boarding during vacations or an emergency visit.

How it works

Choose the species and enter how much you spend, or plan to spend, in each category. The tool adds everything up and shows the yearly and monthly total, plus how much of the budget each item takes. Since prices vary a lot between countries and cities, you can enter your own amounts.

The costs people forget most

• First year: the most expensive. It includes puppy or kitten vaccines, spay or neuter, microchip, bed, carrier, bowls and leash.
• Preventive care: yearly checkup, booster vaccines, deworming and year-round flea and tick prevention.
• Surprises: an illness or accident can cost more than a whole year of food. It's wise to set aside a little each month or consider pet insurance.
• Coat and nail care: some breeds need grooming every one or two months.
• Vacations: boarding, a sitter or extra costs to travel with your pet.
• Replacements: broken toys, beds, cat litter or cage bedding.

Tips to save without cutting corners on health

Prevention saves the most money in the long run. Keeping vaccines and parasite prevention up to date, caring for its teeth and managing its weight prevents many expensive illnesses. Keep track with the vaccine record and check its weight with the ideal weight tool.

Buying food in large bags is usually cheaper per pound, as long as you can store it sealed. Work out how long each bag lasts with the daily food tool.

If you're still deciding which pet to get, the Which pet is right for me? quiz helps you choose one that fits your time and budget. Review your budget once a year: prices change, and so do your pet's needs as it ages.