Pet Owners Willing to Spend as Much or More on Their Pets’ Health Than Their Own, Survey Finds

A recent survey by RestoraPet reveals just how much pet owners are prioritizing the health and wellbeing of their furry companions. According to the findings, 61 percent of pet parents are willing to spend as much — or even more — on their pets' health than on their own. This survey, which gathered insights from over 500 American pet owners ranging in age from 16 to 73, highlights an emerging trend in pet care: many owners see their pets as part of the family and are willing to make significant financial sacrifices to ensure their pets' happiness and longevity.

The survey also found that nearly 90 percent of participants are ready to spend at least $100 per month on their pets' wellness. Furthermore, 55 percent would go so far as to spend "whatever it takes" to keep their pets healthy and happy. RestoraPet CEO Brian Larsen emphasized the importance of prioritizing pets' health, especially considering that pets age more quickly than humans. He noted that the survey's results reflect a growing awareness among pet owners of the need for products that support their pets' quality of life.

An interesting insight from the survey is that nearly half of the respondents — 43 percent — reported increasing their spending on their pets since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many owners are clearly placing their pets' needs ahead of their own, with nearly a quarter of respondents saying they'd be willing to give up dining out, drinks with friends, or coffee runs in exchange for their pets' well-being.

Another aspect of the survey found that millennial men are particularly enthusiastic when it comes to pampering their pets. In comparison to women, millennial men are more likely to purchase organic pet food, take their pets to daycare, and even throw birthday parties for their dogs. The survey showed that 30 percent of millennial men plan to celebrate their pets' birthdays in style, while only 17 percent of millennial women do the same.

These findings underscore the growing trend of pet owners treating their pets not just as animals, but as beloved family members, with a level of care and attention that sometimes rivals their own self-care habits.