Raising a pet brings joy and a sense of fulfilment to many individuals. But beyond the cuddles and cosy companionship, there’s the practical side awaiting every pawrent—the costs.

Let’s break down how much dogs, cats, and other pets cost in Singapore.

One-Time Pet Costs

These initial one-time expenses are essential for setting up a comfortable and safe environment for your little companion.

1. Adoption/Purchase Fee

The price varies depending on the type, breed, and source of your pet. For instance, purebred dogs and cats from reputable breeders can be quite expensive, ranging several thousand dollars. Similarly, rare breeds or exotic pets like luo han fish might come with a hefty price tag due to importation costs and specialised care requirements.

Conversely, adopting a pet from shelters or rescue organisations is generally more affordable, with adoption fees also covering initial vaccinations, microchipping, and sterilisation.

Estimated Average Cost:

2. Licence, Microchipping & Vaccinations (for dogs, cats & rabbits only)

Vaccinations are essential to protect your furry friend from various diseases. The initial set of two vaccinations for dogs and cats costs roughly S$120 in Singapore, while it costs about S$75 for rabbits. Be sure to also add in the cost of microchipping (S$70) and licensing (S$15 onwards).

Estimated Average Cost: S$205

3. Spaying/Neutering (for dogs, cats & rabbits only)

To control the pet population and prevent certain health issues, spaying or neutering your pet is recommended. This surgical procedure costs roughly S$500, depending on the breed, animal’s gender, and the clinic you choose.

Estimated Average Cost: S$500

4. Pet Equipment

Initial purchases such as cages for birds, tanks for fishes, and beds for cats can add up quickly. Again, this depends widely on the type of pet you get, new or pre-loved equipment, and the brand you go for. Expect to fork out more for larger animals like dogs and cats as well as new and branded items.

Estimated Average Cost: S$600

5. Training & Consultation

Many first-time dog owners typically sign up for basic obedience training programmes to promote positive behaviour. These classes focus on teaching essential commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel.

As for first-time cat and other pet owners, you may seek consultation services for the integration of your new companion into the household. Your consultation will cover topics, such as house training, crate training, and behaviour management strategies.

Alternatively, you may also opt for online training resources or purchase pet training books recommended by experienced pet owners for a fraction of the price.

Estimated Average Cost: S$700 for a 7-week obedience course

6. One-Off Emergency Treatment

Pets, just like us, can face unexpected accidents or illnesses that call for urgent veterinary attention. Procedures such as surgeries, diagnostic tests, and hospitalisations can be expensive, ranging from hundreds to several thousand dollars, depending on the complexity and duration of treatment.

For instance, a tumour stone removal costs roughly S$800. Add in blood tests and hospitalisation, you’re looking at a S$1,800 bill on average.

Estimated Average Cost: S$1,800

Monthly Recurring Costs

Besides one-off expenses, don’t forget the monthly recurring costs! Food and medication, especially for chronic conditions, can accumulate significantly over your pet’s lifetime.

1. Food, Treats & Supplements

Whether it’s your feathered or furry friend, providing it with a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for its overall health and well-being. Monthly expenses for food and treats can range from S$60 to S$200, depending on the type, size, and dietary needs of your pet.

Your pet pal may also require dietary supplements to support specific health needs. Vitamins tailored for animals can help bolster their immune system as well as promote healthy skin, scales, and coat. A monthly supply of basic multivitamins might range from S$10 to S$30. Meanwhile, specialised supplements for specific health conditions could range from $20 to $100 or more per month, depending on the complexity of the formula and dosage requirements.

Estimated Average Monthly Cost: S$205

2. Pet Care Products

For dog and cat owners, shampoo formulated specifically for them are pH-balanced to suit their skin’s natural acidity, helping to maintain the skin barrier and prevent dryness or irritation. Generally, you can find pet shampoos ranging from S$5 to S$20 per bottle.

Training your fluffy companion? Pee pads are indispensable in managing accidents and maintaining cleanliness around the house. For a medium-sized dog, you might use 2 to 4 pads per day during training, which amounts to S$14 to S$42 per week.

Estimated Average Monthly Cost: S$72

3. Vet Check-Up & Dental Cleaning

Next, annual check-ups are recommended for most pets, including dogs, cats, and small mammals like rabbits and guinea pigs. A S$50 check-up usually includes a thorough physical examination, vaccinations, and parasite prevention.

Dental health is also another crucial aspect of overall pet wellness. Regular dental cleanings can help prevent periodontal disease and other dental problems. However, they don’t come cheap, costing upwards of S$500 per visit.

Estimated Average Monthly Cost: S$46

4. Pet Taxi

Don’t own a car in Singapore but wish to bring your pet out on a long-distance trip? Be prepared to splash some cash on a pet taxi to your next grooming appointment, vet visit, or dog run. Round trips start from S$40 onwards.

Estimated Average Monthly Cost: S$40 (1 trip per month)

5. Long-Term Medications

Sadly, some pets may develop chronic conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, or allergies, which will require long-term medications to manage ongoing health issues.

Be sure to set aside at least S$50 to S$100 per month. Expect to pay more if the medications contain specialised formulations and/or need to be taken multiple times a day.

Estimated Average Monthly Cost: S$75

6. Grooming

Basic grooming services usually include bathing, brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and anal gland expression. The cost for these services can range from S$30 to S$50 for small- to medium-sized pets, while larger breeds or pets with thick coats incur higher charges from S$40 to S$100 or more.

Here’s how to save on grooming costs: Regular brushing and bathing at home can reduce the frequency of these professional grooming appointments. Many pet salons also offer discounted packages for regular customers or bundled services. Opt for these packages if the grooming provider fits your needs.

Estimated Average Cost: S$40 (groomed once every quarter)

Pet Insurance (for dog & cats only)

Worried about unexpected vet bills? This is where pet insurance comes in. It covers accidental injury or death, vet costs due to accidents or illnesses, and even the loss of your pet due to theft. Annual premiums can range from S$88 to S$700, depending on the coverage and provider.

Take note that pet insurance are only offered to microchipped dogs and cats aged roughly 2 months to 9 years old. They must also not be a working pet or used for breeding.

Estimated Average Monthly Cost: S$33, assuming you opt for a mid-tier plan

Pet Boarding

If you travel frequently or need someone to look after your pet, boarding facilities or pet sitters can be an additional expense. Daily rates start from S$40/night for a cat and S$80/night for a dog.

Estimated Average Monthly Cost: S$16 for a cat and S$33 for a dog (assuming a 5-night stay)

How Much Does A Pet Cost In Singapore In 2024

So, what’s the exact cost to raise a pet in Singapore? Let’s calculate the total one-time and monthly recurring costs.

1. One-time pet costs in 2024

Assuming you bought a medium-sized dog from a reputable breeder:

• Purchase price: S$8,000

• Licensing, microchipping, and vaccinations: S$205

• Spaying/neutering: S$500

• Pet equipment: S$600

• Training and consultation: S$700

• One-off emergency treatment: S$1,800

The total one-time costs of a new dog in Singapore would be S$11,805.

2. Monthly recurring pet costs in 2024

• Food, treats, and supplements: S$205

• Pet care products: S$72

• Vet check-up and dental cleaning: S$46

• Pet taxi: S$40

• Long-term medication: S$75

• Pet insurance: S$33

• Grooming: S$40

• Pet boarding: S$33

The total monthly recurring costs of a new dog in Singapore would be S$544.

Have an honest conversation with yourself about money before deciding to get a pet.

While the initial cost of purchasing a pet may significantly play a part in your consideration, you must also be aware of the ongoing maintenance costs, particularly recurring medical expenses for pets in their later years.

After all, your pet is a lifetime commitment, not a temporary amusement.