Cost Comparison by Category
Compare initial costs, monthly expenses, and care difficulty by category before bringing home your new companion.
* Prices shown are general estimates for beginner-level setups. Actual costs vary significantly by breed, individual, and environment. Purchase price of live animals/plants is not included.
| Category | Initial Cost (excl. animal/plant) | Monthly Cost | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🦎Reptiles | $100 - $333 | $13 - $33 | Intermediate |
| 🐦Birds | $67 - $267 | $13 - $33 | Intermediate |
| 🐹Small Animals | $67 - $200 | $13 - $27 | Beginner |
| 🪲Insects | $20 - $100 | $3 - $13 | Beginner |
| 🐕Dogs | $333 - $1,000 | $67 - $200 | Intermediate |
| 🐈Cats | $200 - $667 | $53 - $133 | Intermediate |
| 🪸Corals | $333 - $1,333 | $33 - $100 | Advanced |
| 🐠Marine Fish | $267 - $1,000 | $33 - $80 | Advanced |
| 🐟Tropical Fish | $67 - $267 | $10 - $27 | Beginner-Intermediate |
| 🐡Goldfish | $33 - $133 | $7 - $20 | Beginner |
| 🐟Medaka | $20 - $100 | $3 - $13 | Beginner |
Tips for Reducing Costs
Buy Used Equipment
Cages and tanks can often be found affordably on secondhand apps or at thrift stores. However, we recommend buying safety-critical items like heaters brand new.
Bulk & Subscription Purchases
Buying food and consumables in bulk can lower the unit price. Subscription discounts are also a great option.
Start Small
Begin with a smaller cage or tank, then upgrade once you're comfortable with the care routine. This approach is easier on your budget too.
Found a Category You Like?
Check out starter kits for the equipment you need, and start preparing to welcome your new companion