As much fun as it is to welcome a new puppy or kitten into your household, pet ownership comes with responsibilities. Providing adequate veterinary care is an important part of pet ownership and a responsibility you can’t ignore. Costs associated with vet care vary based on several factors, including location, type of care needed, and the pet’s size and age.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss what you should expect when considering costs related to veterinarian care for puppies and kittens so you can plan your budget easier.
Routine Vet Checkups
Regular vet checkups are vitally important to the well-being of your pet. Your veterinarian will perform an intensive physical exam that covers every inch and provide vaccinations and recommendations on future care. Regular visits should occur once or twice yearly or more frequently for puppies and kittens that are still growing and maturing.
Routine vet checkups typically cost $50-100 depending on where you reside, though the price could increase depending on what kind of visit and examinations your veterinarian conducts. If they administer vaccines or perform additional tests during the visit, costs may increase slightly. You may visit Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital to learn more about essential vet care services.
Preventative Care for Pets
Preventive care for your pet’s health is essential. Puppy and kitten vet care, such as core vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and heartworm protection, can protect them against diseases and parasites that could pose significant threats.
Preventative care for pets is an integral component of pet ownership. However, its cost varies based on what kind of care your pet requires. For example, heartworm prevention medication costs between $40 and $80 annually, while flea and tick prevention ranges from $50-200 yearly. Vaccinations cost anywhere between $20-50 each. With this rundown of expenses, it’s clear that preventative measures cost far less than treating illness or parasites later.
Attentive dental care for your pet is just as crucial to their overall well-being. Poor dental hygiene can lead to infections, gum disease, tooth loss, and serious health conditions. Routine pet dental services usually include cleanings, x-rays, and extractions when necessary.
Cost of Pet Dental Services
The costs associated with pet dental services can depend on your pet’s needs. An estimate for routine cleaning alone could range between $300 and $700. However, these expenses may increase considerably should they require extractions or other procedures.
Emergency Care
Pets can experience unexpected medical emergencies just like people. Emergencies can range from minor issues, like an upset stomach, to life-threatening scenarios, like car accidents. Therefore, a plan must be put into place in case something goes amiss with your pet.
Cost of Emergency Care
Emergencies can be expensive, and costs will depend on the severity of each individual case. A visit for minor issues like an upset stomach may cost between $100-200, while more severe emergencies such as broken or fractured legs could cost over $2,000 to address.
Final Thoughts
Owning a pet comes with numerous responsibilities, but essential veterinary care should always come first. While costs associated with vet care for puppies and kittens vary based on several factors, understanding their need for regular checkups, preventative care, dental services, and emergency planning is one way to prepare yourself financially.
