If your dog’s bed is nicer than your own or your cat’s snacks cost more than a dinner out, you’re not alone.
Pet care isn’t just a line item anymore — it’s a lifestyle. From gourmet treats and luxury grooming to holiday gifts and birthday parties, pet spending has gone far beyond the basics. In many households, pets are the most pampered family members, and the receipts show it.
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According to a new survey from ValuePenguin, American pet owners are spending big on their furry friends, and many are doing it without a financial plan.
In fact, most aren’t just willing to stretch their budgets — they’re willing to break them.
When the love is unconditional, so is the spending.
Image source: Full Moon Pet
The emotional math of pet ownership
The survey reveals that 73% of pet owners would be willing to go into debt to save their pet’s life, but just 28% have pet insurance to help them do it.
That mismatch highlights a growing financial tension in the U.S. People treat pets like family, but don’t budget for them the same way.
On average, Americans spend about $1,750 per year per pet — a total that includes food, grooming, toys, and medical expenses.
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But it’s the surprise vet visits that can throw even the most loyal pet parent off course. Nearly half of pet owners (49%) have faced an emergency vet visit or serious medical issue.
When those unexpected moments hit, they cost an average of $902 — a sum many households aren’t prepared for.
A gap in planning — and protection
Despite rising costs, most owners are still operating without a safety net. Pet insurance adoption remains low, with many citing confusing policies or believing they simply “won’t need it.”
But the data suggest otherwise. From unexpected injuries to chronic conditions, veterinary care is one of the fastest-growing segments of pet spending. And unlike a phone or a car, skipping a fix isn’t an option.
This financial strain doesn’t always look like a crisis. Sometimes it’s just one more credit card charge. Other times, it’s a tough decision at the vet’s office.
Either way, the survey shows one thing clearly: Americans are emotionally ready to do anything for their pets — but financially, most aren’t even close to being prepared.
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