Hong Kong residents often say that it costs four million to raise a child. But what about raising a pet? This year, media in Japan conducted a study on the cost of raising dogs and cats throughout their lives. The results revealed that pet owners need to prepare a staggering 3,882,754 Japanese yen (approximately HK$202,800) to sustain the needs of a dog throughout its lifetime. The study found that the cost of raising a cat was slightly cheaper, but still amounted to 2,646,956 Japanese yen (approximately HK$138,253 ). In comparison, the figures in Hong Kong are even more astonishing. PET-A-HOOD conducted a related survey and discovered that Hong Kong pet owners spare no expense when it comes to their beloved companions.
Raising a dog costs 200,000 while raising a cat costs 130,000
A recent survey conducted by "株式会社モデル百貨" in Sasebo, Japan, interviewed 1,409 dog owners from across the country. This included 500 owners of small dogs, 500 owners of medium-sized dogs, and 409 owners of large dogs. The study calculated the expenses incurred on items such as dog food, toys, medical care, and diapers, and then estimated the average lifespan of dogs to be approximately 14.76 years. The results revealed significant differences in costs depending on the breed of dog. Large dogs were the most expensive, requiring 4,525,566 Japanese yen (approximately HK$236,375), followed by small dogs at 3,651,586 Japanese yen (approximately HK$197,726) and medium-sized dogs at 3,471,156 Japanese yen (approximately HK$181,302). The overall average cost of raising a dog amounted to approximately HK$200,000. The survey also highlighted that, besides basic food, daily necessities and medical expenses, Japanese dog owners spent a significant amount on air conditioning and heating costs.
The proportion of expenditure throughout the lifespan of a canine, as per the survey conducted by "株式会社モデル百貨" in Sasebo, Japan.
And what about raising a cat? The insurance company "R&C Magazine" in Japan surveyed 3,000 cat owners, studying their initial expenses, daily expenditures, and occasional medical costs. As expected, the most expensive items were cat food and litter, which amounted to a total of 1,035,821 Japanese yen (approximately HK$54,102) over the cat's lifetime. When other expenses were taken into account, the average cost of raising a cat for its entire life came to 2,646,956 Japanese yen (approximately HK$138,253).
19% of dog owners in Hong Kong allocate a monthly expenditure of $3000
Observing the statistical figures from Japan, it is likely that many Hong Kong pet owners would consider them to be rather "modest," as their own expenditures far surpass the aforementioned levels. In recent years, an increasing number of Hong Kong owners have embraced the notion of treating their furry companions "pet humanization". In the hearts of these proprietors, these beloved pets are not mere companions, but integral members of their families, significant household constituents. Consequently, it is imperative to procure the utmost quality of sustenance, daily necessities, and services for these cherished family members. Moreover, in the course of their daily lives, the pursuit of including their "furry children" in every aspect becomes paramount. Dining experiences necessitate the patronage of pet-friendly restaurants, while vacation excursions warrant visits to pet-friendly destinations, all in an earnest endeavor to ensure the happiness and the cultivation of treasured memories with their feline and canine companions. Hence, in recent years, the proliferation of pet-friendly hotels and pet-friendly shopping centers in Hong Kong, along with a wide array of activities tailored for both pet owners and their pets, has become increasingly prevalent.
Data from the PET-A-HOOD reveals that 42% of dog owners allocate between HK$1,001 and HK$3,000 per month to their beloved canines, with an additional 19% spending over HK$3,000. While cat owners tend to incur slightly lower expenses, 13% of them still allocate more than HK$3,000 per month to their feline companions. If we calculate based on the average lifespan of dogs from the Japanese study, which is approximately 14.76 years, the cost of raising a dog in Hong Kong amounts to a staggering HK$531,360, more than double the amount observed in Japan. Beyond the fundamental expenses of sustenance, shelter, and healthcare, pet owners in Hong Kong also bear substantial costs for pet grooming, nutritional supplements, and recreational outings. Notably, PET-A-HOOD platform showcases a continuous rise in searches for pet-friendly restaurants. The data indicates that Hong Kong dog owners spend an average of few hundred dollars each time they venture out, including on food and transportation. It appears that the lives of dogs in Hong Kong are truly enriched with vibrancy and an array of captivating experiences.
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Our platform is a one-stop destination for the latest and the most comprehensive pet-related information. From helping you discover pet-friendly businesses nearby, to planning fun weekend activities, we are your trusted partner when it comes to curating a healthy and exciting lifestyle for your pet friends and you. We also encourage pet owners to build their Pet’s Social Community through Pet-a-hood, by exchanging pet-caring experience, pet-related news, and connecting with other pet lovers in the neighbourhood.
