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How Many Pets Are Too Many?

Written by Colleen Sedgwick. Posted in Health and Safety.

Pets are enjoyable, are part of the family, and many owners enjoy having a few furry friends to look after and love. About 63 million US households have pets (Source: American Veterinary Medical Association). Many of those households have more than one pet, but how many is too many? When does that fondness for animals turn into something irresponsible?

Estimates of stray cats in the United States range up to 70 million (aspca), so it’s easy to see why an animal lover may want to take in so many pets. Taking on too many pets becomes a problem when you become overwhelmed financially or emotionally and your pets become unmanageable and have little quality of life.

If you are thinking about bringing a new pet into the family, here are some things to consider:

  1. Do you have time necessary to care for another animal?
  2. Are you already overwhelmed financially or emotionally?
  3. Do you have enough space in your living arrangements?
  4. Are your current pets safe, happy, and healthy?
Interesting Fact: Did you know the average cost of basic food, supplies, medical care and training for a dog or cat is $700 to $875 annually? Imagine that x3, x5, or even x10! (aspca)