One X-ray, three vaccines, Rs 2,000 in tests: the real cost of owning a pet in India

Beyond food and grooming, healthcare has become one of the biggest recurring expenses for pet owners in India, with spending increasing as more people opt for preventive care, diagnostic tests and specialised treatment. According to DCC Animal Hospital, Greater Kailash, the average cost of a routine visit to its clinic is around Rs 1,200, though the final bill depends on the diagnostics and services required.

For Delhi-based pet parent Jyoti Jaiswal, the costs add up fast. ‘I spend on three vaccinations every year, which cost around Rs 600 per injection, apart from deworming medicines and vitamin supplements,’ she says. ‘Recently, an X-ray cost me around Rs 1,800, while my veterinarian also recommended tests such as LFT, KFT and CBC, each costing around Rs 2,000.’

Even getting to the vet costs extra. ‘Every visit to the vet also adds to the cost, as we usually book pet-friendly travel services, which are more expensive than regular rides. Even for a short distance, the commute to the clinic costs around Rs 700,’ Jyoti adds.

The rising cost of pet healthcare is also driving demand for insurance, with more owners opting for policies that help cover unexpected medical expenses and long-term treatment. Several insurers and aggregators now offer pet insurance covering accidents, illnesses, surgeries and, in some cases, preventive care, with plans starting from Rs 169.