Pets bring endless joy, but they can also come with some unexpected costs. Many new pet owners are surprised by the expenses that come with keeping their furry friends healthy and happy. By knowing what to expect, you can plan ahead and avoid surprises. Here are 12 major pet care expenses that might surprise you!
1. Accidents-Cleanups in the House
New pets are cute until they ruin your carpet. Pee stains and chewed-up furniture aren’t just smelly—they’re expensive. Professional cleaning and replacing of damaged floors can force you to hand over a thousand-dollar bill.
2. Microchipping To Find Your Pet
Losing your pet is both scary and heartbreaking. Thankfully, a microchip can help you find them quickly. With a one-time fee of $25 to $60, it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind it provides in case of an emergency.
3. Pet-Proofing Your Home
Curious pets have a knack for finding trouble. You’ll need items like chew-proof cords, baby gates, and locking trash cans, which can range from $20 to $150. While these are unexpected costs, they’re essential for keeping your pet, belongings, and family members safe.
4. The “Fix” Fee for Spaying or Neutering
Spaying or neutering isn’t cheap when the charges are $50, $200, or even $500, with the final charges depending on your pet’s size and gender. Skipping the procedure could lead to even higher costs later, especially if health issues or an unexpected litter arise.
5. Health Supplements For Their Wellbeing
Joint chews, skin oils, and digestive aids are must-haves for pets with health issues. But watch out—they can quickly add up, costing $50 to $100 a month and totaling $600 to $1,200 a year! It’s a big commitment, but your pet’s well-being is worth every penny.
6. Puppy or Kitten Kindergarten
Got a fun-loving dog or a curious cat? Training classes are a must! These sessions can range from $100 to $300, but teaching your pet good manners now is far cheaper than dealing with bad habits down the line.
7. Unexpected Growth Spurts
Many first-time owners think that one bed or crate will last forever. But the truth is, they grow fast, and you may need new crates and collars every few months. So, set aside $50 for a small cat or dog and $100 for a big baby.
8. Chew-Proofing Your Electronics
Charging cords and headphones are tasty toys for dogs to chew. This means you might need to replace damaged electronics from time to time if they are in their early days of training. Don’t forget: Buying chew-proof gear that costs $20 or $30 is cheaper than buying a new laptop.
9. Seasonal Allergies and Medications
Pets get allergies, too! Vet visits, allergy tests, and meds add up to $300 to $500. Plus, ongoing treatments might cost $50 to $100 a month. While itchy pets are cute, the sneezing fits and vet bills are the surprises you’ll need to prepare for.
10. Pet Stroller or Carrier
You may feel there’s no need for a stroller, but older pets and tiny buddies sometimes need a lift. Owners with multiple pets may also need a stroller to walk them more safely and efficiently. Prices can vary between $50 and $200, but if your pet is in need, pay up happily.
11. Home Insurance Premium Increases
What if you have a “high-risk” dog breed? Your home insurance premium might increase by $50 to $300 because the companies know the risks with rowdy breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds. Some insurers even require extra coverage.
12. Health Certifications for Travel
Traveling together sounds fun until your wallet gets a surprise “boarding fee” of $18 or, worse, $120! Airlines will require health certificates for your travel buddy. If you miss the deadline, you’ll pay for another vet visit.
Stay connected with us for more stories like this! Follow us to get the latest updates or hit the Follow button at the top of this article, and let us know what you think by leaving your feedback below. We’d love to hear from you!
