Pet ownership in the UK has increased by almost 20% over the past five years, yet over four in five (81%) say it’s become more expensive to own and care for a pet And while many people assume the financial strain is the hardest part of owning a pet, the emotional toll can be just as challenging.
Against this backdrop, it’s no surprise that almost two in five (37%) pet owners are worried about managing their pet’s long-term health conditions, where both the financial and emotional impacts are high.
New research by online veterinary supplier Pet Drugs Online explores which lifestyle changes owners are making to support their pet’s health and found that they were more concerned about the impact on their emotional wellbeing than their daily routine.
The research found that more than a quarter (27%) of owners felt shocked when their pet’s condition developed, while a quarter (25%) worried about doing something wrong or making it worse. As ongoing care becomes part of daily life, 18% have had to adjust their routine, from managing medication schedules to changing walks or playtime.
Emotionally, the impact is clear. Over two-fifths (41%) of owners say they feel sad, almost two in five (37%) feel worried, and more than a quarter (27%) feel helpless when managing their pet’s condition. However, many also report a positive shift, with just under a quarter (23%) saying their bond with their pet has become stronger, and 10% feeling inspired by their pet’s resilience.
While emotional pressures are most prominent, financial concerns still linger, with 13% struggling to afford additional care costs, 11% cutting back on their own spending, and 6% cancelling or postponing holidays.
How pet owners can manage ongoing care
Lack of knowledge or understanding around a pet’s condition can be one of the biggest barriers to managing emotional and financial wellbeing, and Dr Sarah Page-Jones, Head Veterinary Surgeon at Pet Drugs Online, has explained what owners can do to ease some of the strain.
1. Establish a consistent routine
“Pets with long-term health conditions often respond best to a stable daily routine. Keeping feeding time, medication, exercise and rest consistent can help reduce stress, manage symptoms, and make changes easier to spot.
“This consistency can also support dietary management, especially when using specialist pet food tailored to kidney, digestive, or allergy-related conditions.”
2. Monitor and track symptoms
“Keeping a close eye on your pet’s symptoms can make a real difference,” says Dr Sarah Page-Jones. She recommends “tracking changes in behaviour, appetite, mobility, energy levels, or flare-ups, as this can help identify patterns and provide useful information to your vet.
“Regular monitoring can help owners feel more in control and allow for earlier intervention. For digestive conditions, supportive additions such as probiotics may also help maintain gut balance.”
3. Take care of yourself
“Caring for a pet with an ongoing health issue can be emotionally and physically draining, so owners must look after themselves too. Taking breaks, asking for support, and speaking openly with your vet can make the experience more manageable.”
For more information on the cost of caring for pets with long-term health conditions, visit: https://www.petdrugsonline.co.uk/pet-advice/cost-of-caring-for-pets-with-long-term-health-conditions
For pet owners looking to save money on their everyday essentials, check out Pet Drugs Online’s new membership plans: https://www.petdrugsonline.co.uk/petsaver
Photo by Виктория Билан: https://www.pexels.com/photo/women-playing-with-cat-outdoors-in-autumn-34422349/
