Cats vs dogs: Study reveals which pet costs owners more
Study also finds 12 per cent of people love their animal more than their partner
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The debate over which animals are best – cats or dogs – is likely to continue forever, but the cost of having one has been settled.
Dogs cost nearly twice as much as cats in their first year, a survey has revealed, with owners spending an average of £4,791 on the animals and their food, insurance and equipment. Cats cost their owners around £2,455 in the first year.
However, the costliest four-legged creature to own is a horse, which cost an average of £12,654 in the first year, according to research by Nationwide Home Insurance.
Rob Angus, Nationwide's head of general insurance, said: "Owning an animal can be extremely rewarding, but a very expensive experience. Given a pet is for life, it's important to plan ahead and budget for the potential costs involved, otherwise animal ownership could turn into a financial headache."
Cheaper alternatives are fish, at just £769 in the first year, or rabbits at £1,802. Just over half of people saved up before buying a pet to cover the initial cost of the animal and associated items.
But 38 per cent of people dip into savings to cover the ongoing costs of their pets, and 9 per cent use a credit card.
However, it is very much worth it for some owners: the survey also found 12 per cent of people said they loved their animal more than their partner.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments