Australian pet owners are spending an average of up to $377 a month on their pets, new Canstar research has revealed, with many owners reporting an increase to pet related costs in the last year.
The survey of more than 2,000 pet owners found food and pet insurance were the biggest expenses for furry, feathered, or scaly friends, yet despite these increases 44% haven’t made any changes to how they care for their pets.
The average monthly spend on pets per category, according to survey respondents, is:
- Food - $80
- Pet insurance premiums - $63
- Daycare / pet sitters - $56
- Vet visits - $50
- Training - $36
- Grooming - $29
- Routine preventative care - $25
- Treats - $20
- Toys & accessories - $18
Pets putting pressure on some household budgets
Canstar’s survey found over half (58%) of respondents only have one pet, while 28% are pet-parents to two, and 16% look after three or more animals in their household.
While 34% of those surveyed said they feel no financial concerns from pet related costs, 53% said they feel some pressure but are managing comfortably.
However, 11% said pet-related costs place significant pressure on their household, and 3% say they’re struggling to afford the costs of owning a pet.
Pet enjoyment main driver of satisfaction as top-rated dog and cat food named
For many pets, there’s little question that the highlight of the day is when they’re fed, and Canstar’s analysis shows pet owners feel strongly about how their pets enjoy their food too.
Canstar’s 2026 Most Satisfied Customers Award Winners for pet food have been revealed, with analysis of the feedback from pet owners showing their pet’s enjoyment is the strongest driver of customer satisfaction. The 2026 winners are:
- Dog food: Prime100 took top spot, with owners seeing ingredients and value for money as equal second strongest drivers in satisfaction
- Cat food: Felix took the crown, with ingredients narrowly outweighing value for money as the second most important factor.
Canstar's consumer expert, Eden Radford, says “There’s no doubt pets bring a lot of joy to Australian homes, but this data shows they also come with a real financial commitment that can add up each month.”
“For many Australians, pets are treated as part of the family, and that extends to how people prioritise spending on them even when budgets are tight, with many owners experiencing higher costs, yet more than two-fifths are choosing to absorb the increases rather than compromise on their pet’s care.
“Anyone considering getting a pet should make sure they’ve budgeted in for the full range of costs – including vet visits, routine care and insurance, as well as the ongoing expenses of food, treats, toys, and grooming.
“Congratulations to Prime100 and Felix for winning Canstar’s Most Satisfied Customers Awards for Dog Food and Cat Food, respectively.
“It’s clear from our research that pet owners aren’t just looking for the cheapest option, they want their pets to genuinely enjoy their food, and these results show which brands are delivering on that.”
