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Know the costs of owning a pet before you bring them home.
How much does a dog or cat cost?
According to the latest Pets in Australia survey, there are more pets than people in Australia, with a total of 31.6 million pets across 7.7 million households. As well as being a big personal commitment, our pets are also a big financial commitment, costing us more than $21 billion per year to care for.
In fact, the survey found that the ongoing costs are the most common challenge of pet ownership, with 31% of respondents identifying them as a concern.
A pet can become an important part of your family. Along with the rewards of pet ownership comes the cost of caring for them throughout their life.
In the first year, a dog will cost you around $4,000 on average, and a cat slightly less.
After your first year, expect to pay up to:
- $2,520 each year for a dog
- $1,656 each year for a cat.
(Source: Pets in Australia report, Animal Medicines Australia)
What costs should you plan for?
Before you budget for ongoing expenses, remember that getting a pet comes with upfront costs too.
Depending on the type of pet you choose, you may need to pay for:
- adoption or purchase fees
- vaccinations
- microchipping
- desexing
- council registration
- bedding and accessories
- toys, leads, harnesses or carriers.
If you adopt a pet from a shelter, some of these costs may already be included.
What are the ongoing costs of owning a pet?
The 2025 Pets in Australia report found the following average costs for dog and cat owners:
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Food and dietary supplements |
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Vet services, medicines and alternative healthcare |
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Products and accessories |
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Flea, worming and tick treatments |
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Grooming, training and memberships |
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Boarding kennels, catteries and transport |
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Walking |
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As pets get older, healthcare costs can increase. Some breeds may also have higher grooming, feeding or veterinary costs.
Can you afford a pet?
When you're thinking about getting a pet, consider all the costs over their lifetime, not just the first year.
You can use our budget planner to add up the yearly costs of having a pet to see whether you can afford it.
Have you planned for unexpected costs?
Even healthy pets can become sick or injured.
Unexpected vet bills can add up quickly, particularly if your pet needs emergency treatment, surgery or ongoing care.
Having some money set aside for unexpected expenses can make it easier to manage costs if something goes wrong.
Learn how to save for an emergency fund.
Is pet insurance right for you?
Some pet owners choose pet insurance to help manage unexpected veterinary costs.
Policies vary widely, so it's important to understand what's covered, what isn't covered and any limits that apply.
Considering pet insurance? Learn what to look for.
How do you choose the right pet?
Take the time to find a pet that suits your lifestyle and budget.
The cost of owning a dog or cat can vary significantly depending on the breed, age and care needs of your pet.
Does breed matter?
Different breeds have different needs.
For example:
- a long-haired breed may need regular grooming
- a larger dog will usually cost more to feed
- some breeds are more likely to develop health problems that increase vet bills.
Does your lifestyle matter?
Choosing a pet that suits your home and daily routine can help avoid extra stress and expense.
If you work long hours, a breed that gets anxious when left alone may not be the right fit. If you live in a small space, a pet that needs a lot of exercise may be harder to manage.
If your pet becomes stressed, you may face additional costs, such as:
- dog walking or pet sitting
- behavioural training
- damage to your home or belongings.
- boarding and care while you're away.
Researching different breeds and their needs can help you make an informed decision before getting a pet.
How can you reduce pet costs?
There are ways to keep pet ownership affordable without compromising your pet's wellbeing.
Keep your pet healthy
Regular exercise, a healthy diet and dental care all play an important role in your pet's wellbeing.
They may also help reduce veterinary costs over time.
If you notice a problem with your pet, speaking to your vet early may prevent a small issue becoming a larger more expensive one.
Manage vet costs
Regular check-ups help you stay on top of your pet's health, but costs can add up.
If money is tight, be upfront about what you can afford. Ask your vet about payment options.
You could also consider whether a potentially lower-cost telehealth services appointment is appropriate for your situation.
Shop around and buy wisely
If your budget allows, buying food in bulk can reduce costs.
You can also:
- look for sales and special offers
- check for loyalty discounts
- compare prices before making bigger purchases
- buy suitable items second-hand, such as a carriers, crates or bedding.
Save money on pet care
If you can't take your pet with you, a trusted friend or family member may be able to help with pet sitting.
You may also be able to learn basic grooming or training skills using free online resources.
Make your own toys and treats
Many pets enjoy simple toys and treats made from things you already have at home.
A homemade toy or treat can cost less than buying new products and be just as much fun for your pet.
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