Pet News

A recent survey highlights a significant trend among pet owners in the United States: a readiness to curb their personal spending to uphold the welfare of their animal companions. The survey, commissioned by MetLife Pet Insurance and conducted by Talker Research, reveals a notable 20% surge in monthly pet care expenditures over the past year. This increase occurs as pet parents brace for ongoing inflationary pressures in the costs of pet services and products, underscoring a deep commitment to their pets' health and happiness.

More than three-fifths of American pet owners stated they would rather scale back their own daily living expenses than compromise on their pets' needs. This dedication is particularly evident in their purchasing habits, with premium pet food being a top priority for 66% of respondents. Additionally, 40% are keen on buying new toys, and 24% regularly invest in professional grooming sessions for their furry friends. This prioritization reflects a broader understanding of pets as integral family members whose needs are often placed above discretionary personal spending.

The comprehensive survey, which gathered insights from 2,000 dog and cat owners in December 2025, also delved into strategies for promoting pets' long-term health. A substantial 48% of participants emphasized keeping up-to-date with vaccinations, closely followed by 46% who prioritize high-quality nutrition. Consistent with these findings, pet owners also ensure their companions receive adequate physical activity (45%) and regular grooming (42%), demonstrating a holistic approach to pet wellness that aligns with their financial outlays.

Preventative veterinary care stands out as a crucial aspect of pet ownership, with 61% of pet owners making regular vet visits a priority. A striking 60% of these appointments are proactive check-ups aimed at preventing health issues, while the remaining 40% are reactive, addressing existing problems. This preventative approach has proven invaluable for over a third (37%) of pet owners, who successfully detected health concerns early through routine examinations, thereby enabling timely intervention and better outcomes for their pets.

Despite increased financial preparedness, the financial burden of unexpected pet health events remains substantial. In 2025, one in five pet owners (22%) reported their pet experiencing a major unforeseen health incident, nearly double the 13% recorded in 2024. Although 71% of owners felt more financially ready for these situations compared to 52% previously, the average cost for such emergencies still amounted to $555 (€511), highlighting the ongoing challenge of managing pet healthcare expenses.

The financial landscape of pet care continued to evolve, with pet owners spending an average of $1,135 (€1,044) on health-related expenses in 2025. This figure included $472 (€434) for insurance and $663 (€610) for veterinary visits, marking an increase from $998 (€918) in 2024, where $348 (€320) went to insurance and $650 (€598) to vet care. The survey, conducted between November 25 and 28, 2024, among 2,000 dog and cat owners, underscored a growing trend in pet care investment. Consequently, almost half of pet owners (48%) established a specific budget for pet spending in 2025, up from 42% the prior year, as the average monthly budget for pet care climbed by 20% to $138 (€127) in 2025 from $115 (€106) in 2024. Looking forward, 37% of pet owners anticipate spending even more on their pets in 2026, a forecast attributed to the prevailing economic instability and expected continued price increases across various sectors.

Pet owners deeply value the companionship and support their pets provide, especially during difficult periods. A significant portion acknowledge their pets' presence during financial difficulties (31%), mental health struggles (30%), and the profound loss of a loved one (24%). This emotional bond translates into a strong sense of responsibility, with 71% of owners indicating that even amidst other pressing concerns, their pet's future welfare remains a primary consideration. This unwavering commitment reflects the profound impact pets have on their owners' lives, solidifying their role as cherished and indispensable family members.

New data from 2026 highlights significant trends in pet ownership and expenditure habits across Spain, indicating a thriving pet care market characterized by high adoption rates and traditional purchasing preferences. Over half of Spanish homes, specifically 54%, now include at least one animal companion, marking a two-percentage-point increase from the previous year. A notable 66% of these pets were acquired from rescue organizations or private individuals, with a smaller fraction (15.7%) purchased from retail outlets. Dogs continue to be the predominant choice, present in three-quarters of pet-owning households, although there's a slight decrease in dog-only homes, while cat-only households maintain stable figures. This information, drawn from the 2026 Barometer of Pet Parent Habits and Trends by the Spanish Pet Industry Association (AEDPAC), is based on 713 online interviews conducted early in the year.

Regarding dietary practices and purchasing channels, Spanish pet owners show distinct patterns, favoring a mix of food types and a strong inclination towards physical retail environments. The majority of dog owners (55%) feed their pets exclusively dry food, while 37% opt for a combination of dry and wet varieties. Cat owners are more inclined to mix food types, with nearly 60% using both, as opposed to 29% relying solely on dry food. Pet food constitutes the largest portion of monthly spending, accounting for 38.8% of the budget for both dog and cat owners, with dog owners spending slightly more. Despite a minor decrease in spending in 2025, the report notes this as a 'rationalized budget without compromising on care.' Furthermore, a significant majority (86% for dog owners and 86.8% for cat owners) prefer purchasing pet food from brick-and-mortar stores, primarily supermarkets, specialized chains, and veterinary clinics, underscoring the enduring appeal of in-person shopping experiences.

Beyond food, pet parents in Spain prioritize their animals' health and demonstrate a growing openness to insurance, reflecting a comprehensive approach to pet welfare. Online purchasing remains minimal, with less than 1% of pet owners relying exclusively on e-commerce. However, nearly 90% of pet parents now utilize an omnichannel approach, blending online and offline channels for convenience and comparison, indicating that this hybrid model has become the new standard. Health services are paramount, with over 90% of both dog and cat owners ensuring regular veterinary check-ups. Grooming services are also popular, utilized by close to 70% of dog owners and half of cat owners, while daycare and boarding services are less common. Monthly expenditures average €163 for dogs and €144 for cats, with veterinary care and additional items like hygiene products and toys making up significant portions. The increasing uptake of pet insurance, with average premiums of €25 for dogs and €24 for cats, highlights a trend towards greater formalization and adaptation to new pet care requirements.

The findings illuminate a committed community of pet owners in Spain who are dedicated to the well-being of their animal companions, emphasizing responsible care and a balanced approach to spending. This dedication not only supports the growth of the pet industry but also reflects a societal value placed on the companionship and health of pets, fostering a future where pet welfare continues to be a top priority and innovation in pet care services flourishes.