What more pets cost, and the ASPCA’s tips for trimming it

The averages

The ASPCA’s 2021 update lists an annual total of $1,391 for a dog and $1,149 for a cat. Those totals include health insurance ($516 dog, $348 cat) and are national averages, so real costs vary by region and animal. For two dogs and a cat, the annual totals add up to $3,931. You can try your own mix in our household cost calculator.

Tips from the ASPCA

• Do not skip yearly exams. The ASPCA says treating illness is more expensive and risky than preventing it.
• Talk to your vet about personalizing the vaccine plan. Never skip shots required by law or essential for your pet.
• Brush teeth. The ASPCA says dental disease can lead to heart and kidney problems and costly procedures.
• Protect against fleas and ticks, using products only as directed. Never use a dog product on a cat.
• Feed a quality food and avoid overfeeding.
• Groom at home with regular brushing and nail trims.
• If an emergency bill would strain your budget, consider pet health insurance and read the fine print.

The takeaway

Prevention costs less than treatment. In a multi-pet home, a schedule that tracks every pet’s checkups, vaccines and preventives keeps you from missing the cheap steps.

Sources

• ASPCA: Cutting pet care costs (2021 update)