Younger pet owners are spending the most on their four-legged friends, study finds

Gen Z and millennial pet owners are spending the most on their four-legged friends – splashing out £936 on all the essentials each year.

A study of 2,000 cat and dog owners found those aged between 18 and 34 spend £78 each month on their furry companions - well above the national average of £64.

Pet owners aged 45 and over were much more frugal – forking out just £52 every month, and £623 over the course of a year.

Toys (17%) were among the biggest expenses for young pet owners – compared to just 8% of their older counterparts. But overall, 47% of all owners want their pets to enjoy their meals and are willing to pay for it – with two thirds of pet spending on food.

The research was commissioned by Pet Drugs Online to mark the launch of The Top to Tail Report. Dr Sarah Page-Jones, the retailers’ lead veterinary surgeon, said: “What your pet eats can have a huge impact on their health and wellbeing.

“For example, cats are obligate carnivores, so they can’t get all the nutrients they require from plant-based foods. It’s also important to consider your pet’s age, breed and activity levels to allow you to tailor their nutrition to their needs.

“Giving your pet both wet and dry food helps to provide good levels of flavour, nutrition and hydration.”

It also emerged that play (68%), treats (67%) and talking to their pets (67%) are the top ways owners show affection and 19% take their dogs on holiday with them.

But while owners were keen to ensure their pets’ happiness, medical treatments were lower on the list of priorities – with 48% admitting they don’t regularly take their pet for check-ups at the vet.

Four in 10 (39%) aren’t frequently treating fleas, 45% won’t regularly worm their pet, and 58% aren’t providing tick treatment. And 45% don’t routinely vaccinate their four-legged friends.

Although interest in holistic health treatments is on the rise – with 26% of those polled, via OnePoll, opting for these to better support their pet’s wellbeing. While the same percentage (26%) also give them supplements.

Dr Sarah Page-Jones added: “Taking your pet to the vet at least once a year can provide a wealth of benefits.

“It allows your pet to receive a general health assessment where any subtle changes may be noticed, ensures you’re up to date with the latest vaccinations, as well as discussing any additional care that may be needed.

“Also, if you’re exploring a holistic approach to your pet’s health, it’s always worth discussing with your vet first hand.”