If there’s one thing pet owners can agree on, it’s that our dogs and cats are more than just animals. They’re family! From snuggling up with you on the couch to greeting you at the door like you’re their favorite person in the world, pets bring so much joy to our lives.
But what is the cost of keeping a furry friend in our home? Ipsos iSay reveals that new pet owners may not realize that bringing home a pet also means signing up for a lot of responsibility — and a bigger hit to the wallet than most people expect.
A recent Ipsos Consumer Tracker survey gives us a clear look at how much work and money pet ownership really takes.
Pets Aren’t Cheap
Here’s a wake-up call: 61% of pet owners said they’re spending significantly more on their pets than they originally thought. That’s more than half of pet parents. Sure, we all expect to buy food, toys, and the occasional treat. Now add in surprise vet bills, pet insurance, grooming, and even premium food, and things get expensive fast.
If you think you can just get by with the basics, think again. The rise in health-focused pet food and wellness products is real. Whether they are on team cats or team dogs, pet owners want the best for their furry friends, and that often means paying more than anticipated.
Pets Mean A Lot - Like, A Lot
For most people, pets are more than just a “thing” they take care of. Over three-quarters of pet owners (78%) said having pets was a big part of their childhood, and that emotional connection has only gotten stronger as they’ve grown older. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or even a hamster, pets are part of the family — and that bond shapes how we think about caring for them.
It’s easy to see why people treat their pets like their own kids (childless cat ladies come to mind). You’re not just feeding an animal, you’re investing in a companion who’s always there for you. And that kind of loyalty? It’s priceless.
Premium Pet Food, Anyone?
Speaking of investing in your pet, let’s talk about food. It turns out, about seven in ten pet owners (71%) try to buy the freshest food for their pets whenever possible. Take a stroll down the pet food aisle, and you’ll see organic, grain-free, and even raw food options that promise to keep your pet healthy and happy. But all that premium kibble doesn’t come cheap, and it’s another reason why costs can quickly spiral out of control.
Sure, you can find budget food at the store, but many pet owners are willing to spend a bit more to keep their furry friends in tip-top shape.
The Work Is Real
Here’s another thing many new pet owners might not think about: half of people (51%) said owning a pet is more work than they originally expected. Walking, feeding, grooming, vet visits — it all adds up.
Those cute Instagram pics don’t tell the whole story. Behind every adorable shot is a lot of hard work, whether it’s scooping litter boxes, cleaning up pet hair and other messes, or just making sure your pet gets enough exercise and enrichment. And let’s not forget training, which can feel like a full-time job in itself depending on the pet. Owning a pet is fun, but it’s also a serious time commitment.
The Full Picture
Bringing a pet into your life is incredibly rewarding, but it’s also something you need to think through carefully. Between the unexpected expenses and the extra work, being a pet parent is no small task. But for many, the joy and love pets bring to their lives more than make up for the challenges.
So, if you’re thinking about getting a pet, be ready for the full package—love, loyalty, and yes, a few surprises along the way. Owning a pet is a lot of work, but if you’re in it for the long haul, the rewards are well worth it.
Share your opinions on pet ownership and many other interesting topics by participating in research with Ipsos iSay. Check your dashboard for surveys now!
The Ipsos research shared in this article has been sourced from: https://www.ipsos.com/en-us/pet-ownership-more-work-and-more-costly-americans-anticipated
