'Pet poverty' strikes 1 in 7 pet owners as lifetime cost of cats and dogs exceeds $30K. Are pets now only for the rich?

Core Insights - The rising costs of pet ownership are leading many Americans to reconsider their ability to care for pets, with a significant portion experiencing financial strain related to pet care [1][3]. Group 1: Financial Impact on Pet Owners - A 2025 survey by MetLife found that 15% of U.S. pet owners experience "pet poverty," struggling to meet both their own basic needs and those of their pets [1]. - The average lifetime cost of owning a dog for 10 years is nearly $35,000, while for a cat over 16 years, it is around $32,000 [2]. - 22% of pet owners carry at least $2,000 in pet-related debt, indicating a significant financial burden [1]. Group 2: Changing Attitudes Towards Pet Ownership - A 2024 LendingTree survey revealed that 23% of pet owners have considered giving up their pets due to costs, and 39% believe their current pet will be their last [3]. - 12% of Americans reported surrendering a pet because they could no longer afford its care, highlighting the impact of financial constraints on pet ownership [3]. Group 3: Inflation and Rising Costs - Approximately 85% of pet owners attribute rising costs to inflation, with 76% noting increased pet food prices, 56% citing higher veterinary care costs, and 40% reporting more expensive necessary supplies [4]. - Veterinary prices in the U.S. have increased by about 60% over the last decade, further straining pet owners' finances [5].