Owning a dog or cat is becoming an increasingly expensive commitment in Spain, and for some families the question is no longer whether they can afford the best food or a new toy, but whether they can afford to take their animal to the vet when something goes wrong. Rising veterinary bills are putting pressure on household budgets, with some owners already delaying appointments, reducing insurance cover or cutting back on other aspects of their animals’ care.

The danger is that saving money in the short term can lead to much bigger bills later, particularly when a minor health problem develops into something requiring emergency treatment. Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE) recorded annual inflation of 4.8 per cent for veterinary services and other domestic animal services in September 2026. Although slightly below August’s 5 per cent, prices are continuing to rise, adding to the pressure on owners already dealing with higher household expenses. 

Veterinary bills put pressure on family budgets

Spain’s first national pet census, published in 2026, recorded more than 15.17 million identified animals, including 7.56 million dogs and 5.62 million cats. That represents millions of households paying for food, vaccinations, parasite prevention, routine check-ups and treatment when their animals become ill.  Veterinary treatment has also been subject to Spain’s standard 21 per cent VAT rate since September 2012, when it increased from the reduced rate of 8 per cent.

For owners already struggling with the cost of living, even an ordinary consultation can become difficult to afford. A UK study involving 770 households offers an indication of how financial difficulties can affect animal welfare. Researchers found that 36 per cent of participants said the cost-of-living crisis had negatively affected their household income. More than one in ten had already made negative changes to their dogs’ care because of financial difficulties, while another 10.8 per cent expected to do so. 

What happens when owners start cutting corners?

Among the changes reported were delaying or cancelling veterinary appointments, using home remedies instead of seeking professional advice, reducing insurance cover and cutting spending on grooming and training. Although the research involved UK households rather than Spanish pet owners, the consequences are relevant wherever veterinary treatment becomes unaffordable.

A dental problem, skin infection or ear complaint that could have been treated relatively easily may become considerably more serious if left unattended. Skipping vaccinations and parasite prevention can also expose animals to illnesses that might otherwise have been avoided. There is another concern: owners who cannot afford ongoing treatment may eventually feel they have no option but to surrender their animals. The 2026 Affinity Foundation report recorded 285,720 dogs and cats entering Spanish shelters during 2025. Financial difficulties cannot be assumed to explain those cases, but the figures demonstrate the pressure already facing animal welfare organisations. 

How owners can reduce veterinary costs

There are ways to make veterinary treatment more manageable without compromising an animal’s health. Ask about payment plans. Some veterinary clinics and hospitals work with finance providers, allowing owners to spread the cost of operations, diagnostic tests and expensive treatments over several months. Many clinics throughout Spain, offer financing options for eligible treatments, including instalment arrangements of up to 12 months. Owners should always check interest rates, administration charges and the total repayment amount before agreeing. 

Request an itemised estimate. Before non-emergency treatment, ask the vet for a breakdown of the costs and whether procedures can safely be carried out in stages. It is also worth asking about suitable generic medicines or alternative treatments. Never change medication or dosage without veterinary advice. Compare insurance policies. Insurance can help with unexpected illnesses and accidents, but policies differ considerably. Check exclusions, excess payments, annual limits and pre-existing condition restrictions. Taking out insurance after an animal becomes ill may not cover the condition.

Keep up with preventative care. Regular vaccinations, dental checks and parasite prevention can help avoid more expensive problems. Checking an animal’s teeth, skin, ears and weight at home can also help identify changes before they become serious. Review everyday spending. Buying food in larger quantities, comparing reputable suppliers and asking about nutritionally appropriate alternatives can help reduce monthly expenses. However, switching to an unsuitable cheaper diet can create additional health problems.

Where to find financial assistance

Owners experiencing genuine financial hardship should contact local animal welfare organisations and their town hall’s social services department. The Spanish organisation FAADA runs its Mejores Amigos programme, which provides free veterinary assistance to animals belonging to people in vulnerable circumstances. Applications normally require involvement from municipal social services.

However, FAADA has temporarily suspended new applications because of the volume of outstanding cases and urgent requests. Its website also directs owners towards other options, including clinics offering payment instalments. Its Soy Responsable campaign offers reduced prices for certain preventative procedures, including

Some municipalities and regional authorities also have assistance schemes for owners on low incomes. Availability varies, so it is worth asking social services what support exists locally. Shelters and rescue associations may also know of reduced-cost veterinary campaigns or sympathetic clinics.

Waiting can cost more in the long run

Owners worried about an upcoming treatment should explain their financial situation to their vet rather than simply cancelling the appointment. Some practices may be willing to agree on instalments or discuss alternative arrangements. The same applies when an animal starts showing signs of illness.

Waiting until a condition becomes severe can mean more suffering for the pet and a considerably larger bill. Being unable to afford every treatment does not mean someone does not care about their animal. But as veterinary costs continue to rise, finding ways to make essential treatment accessible is becoming an increasingly important part of animal welfare in Spain.