Budgeting for Your Pet: Smart Strategies to Save on Food and Essentials

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While it is impossible to place a price on the human-animal bond, the real-world costs of owning a pet are often a real concern for many owners, especially during times of economic uncertainty and instability. With prices rising in almost every sector, even the most basic costs of feeding and caring for an animal add up fast, not to mention the potentially crippling financial burden of caring for a pet that requires surgery or is battling a serious or chronic condition.  

At PAWS/LA we passionately believe in the physical and psychological benefits of pet ownership, especially for those struggling with a disability of some kind. We believe this basic right transcends financial considerations and should be available to everyone regardless of their economic situation. That’s why we do what we do, offering support services to military veterans, seniors and individuals living with HIV or AIDS. 

Yet beyond these more urgent cases of financial instability, there are things all pet owners can do to reduce the financial burden of caring for an animal.  With a little planning and savvy spending, you can create a solid pet budget and stick to it without compromising the quality of the care you provide. Such an approach is becoming increasingly necessary in ou current climate, even for those who might not have struggled in the past. 

In this post, we’ll outline a way to budget for pet food and essentials, how to spot real savings (vs false economy), and where you can cut costs without cutting corners. 

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determine what you actually spend

Before you can budget for anything, you need a clear picture of your current spending. Take at least a couple of months to track and record your pet-related purchases, noting down your findings in a notebook or online spreadsheet. Be thorough, including costs that at first glance may seem unrelated to your pet. A shedding cat, for example, may create a significant amount of additional laundry, while dogs sometimes chew up or otherwise ruin items in the home. Other things to consider include: 

• Food and treats 
• Litter, bedding, or grooming supplies 
• Waste bags, pads, cleaning products 
• Toys and enrichment items 
• Vet bills and medications 
• Subscriptions or memberships (like BarkBox or pet insurance) 

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This step alone can be eye-opening. Maybe you're spending more than you thought on impulse treat buys or specialty toys. Maybe you're switching brands often and missing out on bulk discounts. Once you know the numbers, you can build a more intentional plan. 

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calculate a monthly budget that covers all your needs

Once you’ve tracked your spending, it’s time to create a realistic monthly budget. Don’t forget to account for both routine and occasional expenses. 

Example Monthly Budget (for a 40 lb dog): 

• Food: $45 
• Treats: $10 
• Waste bags: $5 
• Flea/tick meds: $10 
• Annual vet check (averaged monthly): $15 
• Toys or enrichment: $5 

 
Total: $90/month 

Your numbers will vary depending on the pet type, size, and lifestyle—but the key is to find your baseline and stick to it. Budgeting helps you plan for essentials and spot any overspending areas quickly. 

graphic by ryan hilary

TAKE A STRATEGIC APPROACH TO YOUR PET FOOD PURCHASES

Pet food is often the biggest ongoing cost for pet owners. Here's how to make smart decisions: 

Buy in Bulk (If It Makes Sense) 
Larger bags of food or multi-can packs often offer better price-per-pound value. Just be sure you can store it safely, and that your pet will finish it before it goes stale. 

Subscribe & Save 
Many retailers (like Chewy, Amazon, and Petsmart) offer  auto-ship discounts for repeat deliveries. Bonus: you never run out of food, and you can pause or change it anytime. 

Join Rewards Programs 

• Sign up for loyalty programs at pet stores and online retailers. 

• Accumulate points toward free products, discounts, or gifts. 

• Some brands offer “buy 10, get 1 free” promotions on food—track your receipts! 

Compare Unit Prices 
When comparing different sizes or brands, always check the price per pound of ounce, not just the sticker price. A $45 bag of kibble might actually be a better deal than a $30 bag if it lasts longer and meets your pet’s nutritional needs. 

graphic by ryan hilary

Don't overfeed - it's cheaper and healthier

Overfeeding is a silent budget killer. It shortens how long a bag lasts and can lead to obesity, which comes with costly health consequences. 

Tips to prevent overfeeding: 

• Use a measuring cup , not a guestimate 

• Follow the portion guidelines on your food packaging (adjust for your pet’s activity level and age) 

• Ask your vet for feeding advice if you’re unsure ​

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Feeding the right amount means your food lasts longer, and your pet stays healthier—saving you money in the long run. 

Graphic by Ryan Hilary

​DIY Treats and Enrichment on a Budget 

Treats and toys are fun and great for training—but they can sneakily eat into your budget if you’re not careful. The solution? Make your own.

Easy dog treat idea: 

• 1 mashed banana 

• 1 cup oats 

• 2 tablespoons peanut butter (no xylitol!) 

• Mix, shape into small balls, and freeze 

DIY toys and enrichment: 

• Use an old towel to create a snuffle mat 

• Hide kibble inside a cardboard egg carton for a food puzzle 

• Repurpose socks or T-shirts into tug toys 

​Not only do you save money, but DIY enrichment also keeps your pet mentally engaged. 

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Cut Costs on Essentials Like Litter, Bedding, and Cleaning Supplies

Cats, small animals, and birds all need some type of litter or bedding—often on a weekly basis. Here’s how to save: 

Cat Owners: 

• Try store-brand clumping litter or wood pellet options (often cheaper and eco-friendly) 

• Look for litter in larger bags for better value 

• Track how much you use each month so you can buy just what you need—no more, no less 

Small Animal Owners: 

• Paper-based bedding is soft and absorbent, but costly—try bulk buying or mixing with shredded paper (avoid printed inks) 

• Spot-clean cages daily to extend the life of bedding 

Cleaning supplies (enzyme sprays, stain removers) are another regular cost. Look for concentrated versions you can dilute, or make your own vinegar-based cleaner for accidents. 

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plan for unexpected costs

Even if you’re budgeting well for monthly expenses, it’s smart to plan for surprises: 
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• Emergency vet visits 

• Pet-sitting or boarding costs 

• Replacing chewed-up gear or crates 

Add a “pet buffer” to your monthly budget—say $10–$20/month—so you’re building a cushion. Even better? Create a dedicated pet emergency fund  with $200–$500 set aside just in case. ​

AVOID "FALSE SAVINGS"

Sometimes, cheap isn't better. Low-quality food might lead to health problems, or a bargain toy could break and be a choking hazard. Always think long-term. It's better to:
 

• Spend a little more on high-quality food that keeps your pet healthier 

• Buy one durable toy instead of five flimsy ones 

• Invest in vet-recommended preventatives rather than treating problems later ​

Saving money doesn’t mean sacrificing care—it means being intentional about how and where you spend. ​

image by ryan hilary

FINAL THOUGHTS

Pet ownership is one of life’s greatest joys—but it’s also a long-term financial responsibility. Creating a solid budget for your pet’s food and essentials helps you avoid surprises, reduce waste, and feel confident that you’re giving your furry friend the best life without draining your bank account. 
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By buying smarter, tracking your spending, and being a little resourceful, you’ll find that budgeting for your pet doesn’t mean giving up anything—it just means giving better, more intentionally. ​