Bringing a pet into your life can be one of the most rewarding experiences. It also comes with financial responsibilities from everyday expenses like food, grooming, and costly vet visits. In fact, pet owners spend on average $1,300 to $2,800 per year on their pets, while unexpected emergencies can run $1,000 or more for a single vet visit. With a little planning, you can give your furry, scaly, or feathery friend a great life without breaking the bank.

Here are 10 ways to budget and save for pet care, so you can focus more on cuddles and less on costs.

1. Set up a pet emergency fund.

Opening a separate savings account just for pet emergencies will help soften the blow when unexpected emergencies arise. Even if your budget is tight, you can aim to contribute a small amount each month. Over time, this fund will help cover or chip away at emergency vet visits and treatments without derailing your finances.

2. Create a monthly pet budget.

One way to get started is by listing all of your regular pet expenses, including food, medication, grooming, toys, and insurance. Once you have a clear picture of your monthly pet costs, you can work within that budget to stay on top of your finances and avoid impulse purchases.

3. Invest in pet insurance.

Pet insurance may feel like an extra or unnecessary cost, but it can save you thousands if your pet faces a serious illness or injury. Did you know more and more people are insuring their pets? In 2022, there were nearly 4.9 million insured pets in the U.S. While there are hundreds of plans out there, it’s important to choose one that fits your needs and budget. In the end, having insurance offers peace of mind when you need it most.

4. Buy supplies in bulk.

Stocking up on essentials like pet food, litter, and treats can lead to significant savings over time. Typically, bulk items offer a lower cost per unit. Before you run to Costco or Sam’s Club, make sure you have enough storage space to hold your bulk items. Just like you would check your own food, be sure to keep an eye on expiration dates.

5. Use subscriptions for discounts.

Did you know services like Chewy and Amazon offer auto-ship discounts on pet essentials? As with any subscription service, you should keep track of it every month. Situations can change overnight, and those subscriptions may go undetected, potentially impacting your finances.  

Fun fact: Studies show that one out of two U.S. households own a pet, which equates to 86.9 million homes.

6. Learn basic grooming at home.

Pet grooming can be expensive, and it certainly adds up. In fact, $136.8 billion was spent on our furry friends in the U.S. That’s why learning to bathe, brush, and trim your pet’s nails at home can help save you hundreds each year. If you’re scared to make the transition, there are countless tutorials online to help you get started.

7. Shop sales and use coupons.

According to recent data, the average pet owner will spend $912 a year on their dog and $653 on their cat. Now, imagine the households that have more than one pet? By signing up for pet store newsletters, you can receive exclusive deals or coupons and help cut costs on frequently bought items.

8. Prioritize preventive care.

Routine check-ups, vaccinations, and dental cleanings can help prevent costly health issues down the road. Similar to you and your loved ones, preventive care is one of the best investments you can make in your pet’s long-term health and can help you avoid emergency vet visits later.

9. Join a pet rewards program.

Many pet retailers offer loyalty or rewards programs allowing you to earn points for purchases. These can often be redeemed for discounts or free products over time. Some may even provide birthday perks for your pet.

10. Plan for big expenses early.

Big-ticket items like dental cleanings, surgeries, or advanced diagnostics can strain your budget if you’re unprepared. Setting aside a small amount each month toward these future expenses can help soften the financial blow when the time comes.

Life is unpredictable, especially when it comes to pets. Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or a seasoned pro, building a pet care budget is one of the best ways to set you (and your pet) up for success.

For more budget-friendly tricks, visit our Savings Tips page at efirstbankblog.com.

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Published: July 9, 2025