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Survey reveals shocking drop in pet emergency preparedness as costs soar
NEW YORK — The decision to add a four-legged family member has become increasingly complex in 2025, according to new research. While pet owners spent an average of $2,085.60 on their animals in 2024, a comprehensive survey of 2,000 dog and cat owners shows that financial readiness for pet emergencies has plummeted, leading to a significant decline in those considering pet adoption this year.
The most concerning trend revealed by the survey, which was conducted by Talker Research and commissioned by MetLife Pet Insurance, is a dramatic decline in financial preparedness for pet health emergencies. While 82% of pet owners reported being financially ready for unexpected health events in 2023, that number dropped to just 52% in 2024. This 30-percentage point decrease represents a significant shift in pet owners’ financial security, with the average unexpected health event costing $560.80.
The financial strain appears to be reshaping future pet ownership plans. Only 27% of current pet owners expressed interest in getting a new pet in 2025, a dramatic decrease from the 66% who indicated such interest for 2024. When considering a new pet, respondents indicated that their relationship with their current fur baby was the most important factor, with 25% citing this as their primary consideration.
Despite these financial pressures, the commitment to current pets remains strong. While 45% of respondents expect to maintain their current spending levels in 2025, 36% anticipate their expenses will increase further, citing factors such as inflation and their pets’ aging. The financial management of pet care appears largely unstructured, with 55% of pet owners reporting they operate without a regular pet care budget. Work and family schedules have further complicated financial planning, with 37% of pet parents acknowledging these factors have led them to relax their spending constraints.
“While we know that rising costs are top of mind for many pet owners, it’s important to remember that investing in your pet’s health today can save you from bigger challenges tomorrow,” says Brian Jorgensen, CEO of MetLife Pet Insurance, emphasized the importance of preventive care. “Quality care and preventive treatments are key to keeping your pet happy and healthy, and there are more affordable options available to help ensure they get the care they deserve.”
The emotional aspect of pet ownership continues to deepen, particularly regarding separation anxiety. The survey found that 48% of pet parents feel anxious about leaving their pets at home, with an equal percentage reporting feelings of sadness. When arranging pet care becomes necessary, 64% prefer to rely on family members for pet sitting, while only 23% would consider hiring a professional pet sitter, and 16% would opt for boarding facilities.
The year 2024 marked significant growth in meaningful interactions between pets and their owners. The number of pet parents cherishing quality time together doubled from 32% in 2023 to 60% in 2024. Similarly, playing with pets increased from 29% to 47%, and the practice of taking pictures with pets saw a remarkable jump from 10% to 31%.
“As we begin a new year, ensuring your pet is covered with the right insurance and care brings peace of mind for both you and your pet companion. With that security in place, you can worry less about the unexpected and focus more on spending quality time together, knowing that whatever comes your way, you and your pet are prepared to tackle the future together,” says Jorgensen.
Pet owners shared valuable insights about the human-animal bond through their experiences. Their observations ranged from practical advice about emergency preparedness to profound reflections on relationships. One owner emphasized the importance of planning ahead in hurricane-prone areas, while another stressed the value of regular veterinary visits.
Several respondents offered touching observations about the depth of pet relationships. “If you give them something from your soul, they will give it right back to you from their own soul,” one pet owner reflected. Another emphasized the reciprocal nature of pet ownership: “That pets are really family and if they aren’t happy, neither are you.”
The survey also captured important lessons about attentiveness in pet care. One respondent noted, “The importance of being patient and attentive to my pet’s needs. Whether it’s noticing small changes in their behavior or giving them extra love during stressful times, being present makes a big difference.” Other insights included observations about pets’ changing behavior over time and the unconditional love they provide.
Looking ahead, the data presents both challenges and opportunities. While financial preparedness for pet emergencies has declined significantly, pet owners’ increased focus on quality time and care suggests a population eager for solutions. The key question for 2025 appears to be not whether Americans will continue to love their pets, but how they’ll adapt to the growing costs of providing that care.
Survey Methodology
The survey was commissioned by MetLife and conducted by Talker Research between November 25 and November 28, 2024. The study included 2,000 dog and cat owners and was administered online through Talker Research’s platform.
Lessons Shared By Pet Owners In Survey
- “Plan in advance. Living in a state where hurricanes hit makes you buy extra things for your pets in advance.”
- “Always have regular routine vet visits.”
- “That we never know when something will happen, so treasure each moment of every day.”
- “If you give them something from your soul, they will give it right back to you from their own soul.”
- “It’s actually very easy to teach an old dog new tricks.”
- “Their behavior will change over time. For example with dogs, they will be more tame and less hyper as they age.”
- “Pets give so much to their owners and ask for hardly anything in return. They freely give unconditional love.”
- “That pets are really family and if they aren’t happy, neither are you.”
- “The importance of being patient and attentive to my pet’s needs. Whether it’s noticing small changes in their behavior or giving them extra love during stressful times, being present makes a big difference.”
- “That my pet’s quality of life depends on me.”
- “To trust my dog’s instincts when he’s trying to tell me something.”
- “Every animal has their own needs and quirks. If you pay enough attention to their routines and habits and reactions, you can learn how to help them and give them an even better life.”
- “We humans could learn from their loyalty.”
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