Cats vs Dogs: Which Costs More at the Vet?

There is a common assumption that cats are cheaper pets than dogs. They eat less, they do not need walking, and they are generally more independent. But when it comes to veterinary care, the picture is more nuanced than you might think.

The headline numbers

On average, dog owners spend around £500-700 per year on routine veterinary care. Cat owners spend around £300-500. So yes, dogs are typically more expensive for routine care. But the real cost differences show up when things go wrong.

Emergency and surgical costs

Dogs are more likely to end up at the emergency vet. The average emergency bill for a dog is £1,200-2,500. Cats have their own expensive emergencies though — urinary blockages in male cats can cost £1,500-3,000.

The verdict

Dogs are generally more expensive at the vet than cats, primarily because they are larger and more accident-prone. But the gap is smaller than most people assume, especially with breed-specific health issues and chronic disease management in older cats.