(Feature Impact) It’s not just your imagination — pet care expenses have climbed, just like the cost of so many other products and services.
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According to Healthy Paws Pet Insurance, pet service costs have jumped 38% over the last five years, with owners now spending more than $4,200 annually on routine expenses for a cat or dog.
Several factors are behind this increase — from higher prices for pet food ingredients such as meat and grains, to shortages of veterinary medications. Add in rising labor and transportation expenses, and everyday pet costs can take a bigger chunk out of your budget.
Still, there are straightforward ways to manage these expenses while still providing your furry companion with the quality care they deserve:
1. Prioritize Preventive Care
Regular vet visits, vaccinations, and screenings can identify health problems early, when they tend to be simpler and cheaper to treat. Most pets need an annual checkup, while puppies, kittens, and senior animals may require more frequent appointments.
Preventive medications are also key. For instance, treating heartworm disease can run into the thousands of dollars, whereas a monthly prevention dose costs between $15 and $30.
2. Focus on Daily Wellness
Consistent exercise lowers the risk of chronic illness and supports overall well-being. Most dogs benefit from at least 30 minutes of activity each day, and cats need regular playtime to stay active.
Controlling portion sizes helps maintain a healthy weight. While exact amounts vary, a solid starting point is the feeding guide on your pet food label, then adjusting based on your veterinarian’s advice.
3. Find Support in Your Community
Many local humane societies and rescue organizations offer programs that make pet care more affordable — including low-cost vaccinations, spay/neuter services, and discounted supplies.
For older adults, nearby Meals on Wheels providers can be vital resources. With support from PetSmart Charities, numerous local programs offer free pet food and sometimes services such as veterinary care and grooming. So far, 20 million pet meals have been delivered through this partnership, helping keep pets healthy and in loving homes with seniors.
4. Plan Ahead for Unexpected Costs
Even with regular care, unexpected illnesses or injuries can occur — and the bills can pile up. The PetSmart Charities-Gallup State of Pet Care research found that 52% of pet owners skipped or declined veterinary care in 2025, with cost being the main reason for most.
Pet insurance can help mitigate that risk. Most policies reimburse a portion of covered veterinary expenses after you meet a deductible, softening the blow of surprise bills. Plan details vary, but average monthly premiums are roughly $60 for dogs and $30 for cats.
It’s also wise to discuss financial concerns openly with your veterinarian. Many clinics can offer payment plans or point you to low-cost-veterinary care resources in your area.
To locate a local provider and see if pet assistance is available near you, visit mealsonwheelsamerica.org/lovepets.
A Companion Through It All
A devastating cancer diagnosis forced Lois to spend eight months in the hospital. After her release, she started receiving home-delivered meals from her local Meals on Wheels program. That connection became a lifeline.
“When I was sick,” Lois said, “the Meals on Wheels volunteers … were the only company I had.”
Everything shifted when a small white kitten with calico markings appeared at her front door. Today, that kitten — now named Grace — rarely leaves Lois’s side.
While Grace eases Lois’s loneliness, caring for a pet on a fixed income can be challenging. For many seniors, it means tough trade-offs — like stretching groceries or postponing medical care — just to afford pet food and supplies. Thanks to support from her local provider, Grace receives food as part of Lois’s regular meal delivery, helping keep both of them healthy, happy, and, most importantly, together.
Michael French
michael.french@featureimpact.com
https://editors.featureimpact.com/
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