How much does a dog or cat cost a year?
An adult dog costs about $1,930 to $5,305 a year in the US, and a cat about $850 to $4,400, according to Rover's 2026 survey. The first year costs more: getting a dog adds $1,195 to $4,650 in one-off costs, and a cat $705 to $2,960.
Free, no sign-up · Reviewed October 2026 · How it works
Pet
Life stage
Include one-off costs of getting a pet?
Adoption or breeder fee, spay or neuter, microchip, first vaccines and supplies: $1,195 to $4,650.
What to include
Per year
$1,910–$5,765
About $159 to $480 a month.
US figures from Rover's May 2026 survey of pet parents; the wide ranges reflect pet size, food choice and where you live. Not included: emergencies (often $300 to $2,500 for a dog), boarding or sitters when you travel, and end-of-life care. Set aside an emergency fund or compare insurance.
How this tool works
The calculator adds up Rover's May 2026 survey ranges for each cost category for your pet's life stage. Untick anything you won't pay for, such as insurance or professional grooming.
Choose 'first year' to add the one-off costs of getting a pet: adoption or breeder fees, spay or neuter, microchip, first vaccines and starter supplies.
The ranges are wide because food choice, pet size and where you live change costs a lot. Emergencies aren't included and can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, so plan for them.
Questions.
How much does a dog cost per month?
About $145 to $505 a month for a medium-sized adult dog in the US, according to Rover's 2026 survey, before emergencies.
Is a cat cheaper than a dog?
Usually, yes: a cat's yearly costs are typically lower, mainly because of food, training and grooming, though vet costs for older cats can be high.
What is the biggest cost of owning a dog?
Food, followed by insurance or vet care. Food alone can range from under $800 to over $2,600 a year depending on size and brand.
Related tools
- How much does pet insurance cost?The average US accident and illness policy costs about $62 a month for a dog and $32 for a cat.
- How much does a pet sitter cost?Average US rates: about $22 per drop-in visit, $55 a day for house sitting and $49 a day for boarding.
- What dog breed is right for me?Answer 7 questions about your home, time and lifestyle and get matched with dog breeds that fit.
- What cat breed is right for me?Answer 7 questions about your home and lifestyle to find cat breeds that suit you, from calm lap cats to playful talkers.
