Which Pets Are Easiest And Cheapest To Own In LA?

It’s no secret that Los Angeles is an expensive place to live. Everything from rent to groceries costs you more than in most other cities in the world. And while LA is home to many of the rich and famous, there are plenty more people just trying to get by on a regular monthly salary.

When deciding to get a pet in LA, price is going to be a factor. You’re already paying high prices for your own survival and probably have limited funds left over for a pet. Many LA residents also want low-maintenance pets, who will be content without constant attention. After all, you don’t want to have to pay for petcare when you are at work.

What are the easiest and cheapest pets to own in LA? Here are some of the most popular.

Birds

California actually allows you to own exotic birds, and technically, birds can be one of the most expensive (and finicky) types of pets to own. However, if you go for a non-exotic bird, you can have a companion who appreciates but does not require a lot of attention, who is also cheap to feed.

Tortoises (and other reptiles)

Another low-maintenance pet is a tortoise. A tortoise may seem like a difficult animal to love, but they are actually adorable. Each has its own personality. Buying a baby tortoise will not break the bank, and you don’t have to spend tons of money feeding it or finding pet care.

The same is true for other reptiles, although they can be more expensive to buy. Snakes are a little more expensive to feed, but various types of lizards are cheap, low-maintenance pets.

Of course, not everyone is happy with a pet that they cannot cuddle. What kind of cuddly pets are cheap and low-maintenance?

Cats

The cat versus dog debate will rage on until the end of time, but there is no arguing about which of these pets is less needy. Cats are independent creatures who also fall deeply in love with their owners. Cat lovers also tend to be less particular about what type of cat they get. Indefinable mixes are popular and have a lot of character.

Feeding a cat is not too expensive (as long as you stay away from the harmful trend of “human grade” pet food), and every cat owner knows that a good box is more appreciated than an expensive toy. Vet fees can get expensive, however, and pet insurance is a necessity (which we will go into below).

Dogs

Dogs are not cheap pets, but they’re not the most expensive either. That title goes to the many exotic pets which are legal to own according to California law. If you adopt a dog from a shelter, you don’t have to pay an exorbitant price for a specific breed. You are also helping out neglected dogs who have nowhere to go.

Dog food is not too expensive (and again, stay away from “human grade” dog food), and the occasional toy won’t break the bank. Grooming can get expensive, however, and it is necessary on a regular basis, especially for very furry dogs.

Dogs also need a lot of attention, and if you are out all day at work, you may need to pay for pet daycare. If you don’t have the time to take them on daily walks, that will be another expense.

Vet bills are very expensive for dogs, especially in an economy in which vet bills are rising rapidly. For this reason, you may want to consider pet insurance.

California pet insurance

Pet insurance covers vet bills, and is particularly important when something goes wrong. Visits to an emergency vet are prohibitively expensive and can leave you in debt. Because you will do anything for your pets, you’ll have to find a way to pay.

Lemonade pet insurance is a good option for California cat and dog owners. As with all types of insurance, there is a deductible and annual limit. However, the amount you save is still monumental, allowing you to give your pet the best care available.

Owning pets in Los Angeles is not cheap, but there are options which won’t break the bank. Consider getting a cold-blooded pet, or dropping by your local shelter to rescue a deserving dog or cat.