The cheapest pets to own in 2026
Lowest lifetime cost across every breed and species in our database.
The cheapest pet to own in our database is the Teddy Guinea Pig (Guinea Pig) at about $6,200 over its lifetime. Small, healthy, low-grooming breeds dominate the list because they eat less and cost less to insure.
| Pet | Species | Lifetime |
|---|---|---|
| Teddy Guinea Pig | Guinea Pigs | $6,200 |
| American Guinea Pig | Guinea Pigs | $6,500 |
| Abyssinian Guinea Pig | Guinea Pigs | $7,450 |
| Flemish Giant | Rabbits | $8,500 |
| Mini Rex | Rabbits | $10,650 |
| Peruvian Guinea Pig | Guinea Pigs | $10,650 |
| Silkie (Sheltie) Guinea Pig | Guinea Pigs | $10,650 |
| Holland Lop | Rabbits | $11,850 |
| Mini Lop | Rabbits | $11,850 |
| Dutch Rabbit | Rabbits | $12,450 |
Figures are generated from the PetCost database — food via the vet RER/MER formula, insurance from NAPHIA averages by breed health-risk tier. US estimates; verify with your vet and insurer.
FAQ
What is the cheapest pet to own?
The Teddy Guinea Pig at ~$6,200 lifetime, followed by other small breeds.
Are cats or dogs cheaper to own?
Small cats and small dogs are comparable; the biggest cost driver is size, not species.