Pet inflation: How Canadians feel about rising costs

According to Rover’s True Cost of Pet Parenthood in Canada Report 2024, the annual cost for dog essentials ranges between CA$965 ($708.65/€650.47) and CA$4,020 ($2,952.08/€2,709.72), averaging a monthly spend of CA$210 ($154.21/€141.55). This marks a significant CA$70 ($51.40/€47.18) jump from 2023.

Experts attribute this increase to pet food inflation, as some brands have experienced a 120–130% price increase in cat and dog food.

The data unveils that 68% of Canadian dog owners have felt the continued increase in pet-related costs in the past 12 months. However, these figures have fallen in comparison to 2023, when 85% of dog parents felt the price hike. 

The Rover survey took place in February 2024 and asked for the feedback of 500 Canada-based pet parents.

Pet food

6 out of 10 respondents are concerned about the rising pet care costs, including veterinary services, food, toys and gear. More than half (52%) feel that the cost of pet-related goods and services has increased more than their grocery and personal care items.  

The hardest financial impact comes from the increase in the cost of pet food (60%), treats and toys (51%), and vet visits (48%). Other inflationary costs, such as pet supplements and medications (31%), grooming (28%) and accessories (28%), have also impacted pet owners’ wallets.

According to the Rover survey, 60% of pet parents in Canada are concerned about the cost of vet visits. This is down from 78% in 2023.

How much are they spending?

An average of 36% of pet parents spend between CA$50 and CA$99 (€33.70–€66.73/$36.72–$72.70) per month per pet. More than 3 out of 10 (34%) spend CA$100 ($73.43/€67.41) or more. 

The survey also reveals that 66% of respondents expect to spend up to CA$1,000 ($734.35/€674.06) on upfront costs when they adopt a new pet, with just over a quarter (26%) reporting that the actual costs were higher than anticipated. 

Changing attitudes

To keep pet items affordable, 1 in 3 Canadian pet owners (34%) admits to reducing their personal spending. 

Nearly 2 out of 10 (19%) cut back on groceries to further provide for their pets, while 21% changed their pets’ diets due to inflation in the category.

Furthermore, 13% of respondents mentioned delaying having children or not having them as pet care came at a lower cost. 

According to the survey conclusions, 38% of Canadian pet parents have insurance, of which 84% agree it’s worth the additional cost.