Moneywise

Mon, Jun 2, 2025, 2:27 AM4 min read

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Fur babies are family. But for many Americans, the cost of caring for them is becoming unbearable.

A Gallup poll found 52% of U.S. pet owners say they’ve had to put off veterinary care because of the cost. A whopping seven in 10 also say they forgo pet care due to financial reasons.

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These numbers reveal a troubling reality: Financial constraints are significantly affecting how Americans care for their pets.

According to The Atlantic, experts call this situation “economic euthanasia” — referring to the heartbreaking decision to forgo necessary treatment or euthanize a pet because the care is unaffordable.

It’s not your imagination. Prices are soaring.

In 2023, Americans spent around $38 billion on healthcare for their pets, up from $29 billion in 2019, according to The Atlantic. Capital One projects that total pet-related spending in the U.S. will reach $157 billion by the end of 2025.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics also found that urban veterinary services saw a 5.3% price increase from April 2024 to April 2025 — more than double the 2.4% average rise in the cost of all consumer goods. Looking back a decade, the average veterinary bill is now 60% higher than it was in 2014, according to Morning Brew’s analysis of federal data.

This is partly due to advancements in pet medicine, such as ultrasound machines, X-rays and lab equipment — an expense that’s passed down to consumers.

However, unlike human health care, employer plans and private insurance don't cushion these costs.

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Gallup reports that 71% of pet owners find veterinary care unaffordable or not worth the cost. Most cap treatment spending at $1,000.

While 64% could pay twice that for lifesaving care if offered a year-long, no-interest plan, only 23% have received such an option. The lack of financing leads to pets going without care, being surrendered or even euthanized.