One of the most important and least discussed aspects of responsible pet ownership is economic. But it is of utmost importance because the decision to have an ARISTOCAT or an ARISTODOG has a considerable impact on our household economy... in the short, medium and long term. In fact, as long as we are lucky enough to share our lives with our pet.
That is why today we intend to answer a question that is not always asked: how much does it cost to keep a pet? A question that needs an answer, just as it does from a rational point of view when one considers having children. You may want to have them above all else, but will you be able to give them everything they need?
To begin with, it should be noted that the level of expense varies greatly depending on the pet we have. In fact, there is a notable difference between what it costs to keep a cat and what it costs to keep a large dog, over the course of a year. In general terms, annually, the maintenance and care of felines is cheaper than that of small and medium-sized dogs. And this is clearly related to the fact that younger people who want to live with a pet and who usually have a more precarious economy, are opting for cats. Since they "need less", in every sense (domestic space, time, food...) to be well. That's why in big cities like Madrid, cats are gaining ground.
And it is that having a cat usually costs around 522.27 euros per year. While in the case of dogs, it varies quite a bit depending on the size of the dog. Keeping a large dog costs around 733€ per year. Keeping a medium-sized one costs around 366 euros. And, finally, there are the small ones, which cost around 217 euros.
And what do we spend the pet budget on?
Food
This is one of the most important budget items, over the course of the year. Those of us who have cats usually spend an average of 400 euros on their food. If the cat has any specific needs, derived from a health problem or its hyper-selective nature (let's not forget that many cats are very picky eaters), that budget can increase significantly. Here we explain the aspects you should take into account to choose the best food for it.
In the case of dogs, as we said, it depends a lot on their size. Since, logically, a chihuahua does not have the same nutritional needs or the same appetite as a Great Dane. Therefore, the annual cost can range between 163 and 678 euros. If we add other additional factors (overweight, special needs, etc.), the amount can also be significantly altered.
Not to mention the utensils needed for our pets to eat properly. This includes feeders and waterers which can be extremely economical or more expensive, depending on how sophisticated or technological they are. As we always say, it is better not to skimp on materials, for the safety and well-being of our furry friends.
Veterinarian
Assuming our best friend has iron health and is in great shape, the minimum veterinary expenses are usually 50 euros per year (on the low side). Of course, if our dog or cat gets sick... things get complicated. And we will do everything to make them better, we will take them to the best veterinarian and ask for all the necessary tests to be done. Because yes, we love them and they are part of the family. Knowing that, it is advisable to have a "piggy bank" for our pets' sanitary "just in case".
Hygiene
Another important part of our budget is allocated to the hygiene of our pets. Something of utmost importance if we want them to be healthy and enjoy the well-being of home.
If you have a cat, you will need a litter box, a scoop, a brush, litter for the litter box... And all that adds up.
In the case of dogs, you also need shampoo, antiparasitic sprays, odor-eliminating wipes, and oral hygiene products — an aspect that we should not neglect under any circumstances, for reasons as important as those we tell you about here. In addition to hygienic bags for when we go for a walk.
Once all these aspects, which are basic and vital, have been covered, the budget can also increase when we enter the world of toys and accessories to enrich the space where our pets live and, by extension, their lives.
Rest
Although there are ARISTOPARENTS who don't complicate things and allow their pets to sleep on the sofa, on blankets, or in their own beds, it is ideal for our best friends to have their own resting space. This is good for teaching them certain rules of behavior, but also for avoiding problems when a new four-legged member joins the family.
At ARISTOSHOP we have countless options for dogs' and cats' rest. Beds, sofas, cushions, donut-shaped beds, mattresses... Prices are very varied, suitable for all budgets. From 40€, like the Cradle bed, to luxury beds that cost almost 500€ like the Wheely. Enter here and discover the best one for your pet!
Games
Both cats and dogs need games to keep their minds active, to stay active, to foster their intelligence. The possibilities in these areas are unlimited. And there is the possibility of making DIY (Do It Yourself) toys at home if we want to minimize expenses (although always making sure that we comply with all necessary safety measures); as well as buying economical toys (like the knot ball with animal faces that cost a little over 5 euros), or interactive toys like those from Nina Ottosson that promote intelligence and that you can find in ARISTOSHOP.
Transportation & safety
When our ARISTOPETS leave home, whether to go to the vet's office, to the park, or on a trip, we must comply with a series of safety measures.
The carrier will be essential in most cases. And there are some from 20 euros... up to whatever you want or can spend. More than 100 in the case of trolley-type carriers. A leash will also be essential, in the case of dogs, or a harness and leash. And a muzzle, if we have a dog classified as potentially dangerous.
Of course, many of these expenses are incurred when the pet arrives in our lives. And a lot of time passes until we have to renew them. But these are aspects to take into account to make a general calculation of what it means financially to have a pet and the commitment we acquire, at all levels, when we expand the family.
Although it should be noted that every effort is worthwhile and insignificant compared to everything our best friends give us. Keep that in mind!