Pet owners across the United States are facing higher expenses for food, veterinary care, and routine needs in 2026, even as the overall pet industry continues to expand.
The American Pet Products Association reported that total U.S. pet industry expenditures reached $158 billion in 2025, a 3.7% increase from 2024, and are projected to hit $165 billion in 2026.
In 2025, U.S. pet ownership remained stable, with 95 million households owning at least one pet.
According to a MetLife Pet Insurance study released earlier this year, the average pet parent spent roughly $2,360 on their pet in 2025, up from $2,086 the prior year, with health-related expenses alone exceeding $1,100 annually.
Pet parents spent $1,135 on health-related expenses, including $472 on insurance and $663 on vet visits.
Rover’s 2025 True Cost of Pet Parenthood report placed annual dog ownership costs between $1,390 and $5,295, with a lifetime total of about $34,550 over 10 years.
Cat care costs ranged from $760 to $3,495 per year, with lifetime expenses around $32,170 over 16 years.
The rise in costs is driven largely by increases in pet food, veterinary services, and supplies.
The APPA’s 2026 State of the Industry Report shows pet food and treats generated $68.3 billion in 2025 sales, while veterinary care and products reached $41 billion.
Veterinary services have seen some of the steepest price increases, continuing a multi-year trend of “petflation.”
Pet owners are responding by prioritizing essential spending and seeking value where possible.
Some are shifting toward preventive care measures and shopping for non-essential items at lower prices.
Despite the higher costs, the industry has shown resilience, with many households maintaining or even increasing their pet-related budgets.
Younger Americans, including Gen Z and Millennials, continue to drive much of the demand for pet ownership and premium products, even amid broader economic pressures such as high housing costs. The APPA noted that 77% of pet owners said the current economy has not affected their decision to own pets.
In North Texas and across the country, shelters and adoption events remain active in April 2026, reflecting steady interest from potential owners looking to add pets to their families as they navigate rising costs.
