Model review, 14 October 2026: the examples below now come directly from the current calculator. They replace older incomplete totals and unsupported national rankings. Underlying price inputs are illustrative starting assumptions, not measured current market ranges; internal agreement is not market validation.
A species average can hide more than it explains. Compare acquisition, food, coat care, litter and paid services for the actual animal. The examples below use the same stated calculator settings, not a national sample or a guaranteed cat-versus-dog saving.
Current calculator examples
AUD · VIC · breeder purchase · mid-range spending · insurance included · professional grooming allocation · basic training for dogs, indoor living for cats · no boarding, walking or daycare. Reserve: $0, separate from spending. These are model scenarios, not verified national prices or individual quotes.
Swipe the table sideways if needed. Monthly figures spread ongoing spending over 12 months; first-year setup is separate.
| Breed | Monthly ongoing | First year | Annual ongoing | Lifetime spending |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic Shorthair | $168 | $2,797 | $2,014 | $30,993 |
| Ragdoll | $229 | $6,477 | $2,744 | $44,893 |
| Maine Coon | $249 | $6,741 | $2,983 | $45,520 |
| Jack Russell Terrier | $177 | $5,497 | $2,129 | $35,303 |
| Labrador Retriever | $286 | $8,475 | $3,432 | $46,227 |
| Standard Poodle | $308 | $8,992 | $3,699 | $57,079 |
Lifetime spending uses each profile's rounded midpoint lifespan at constant prices, without inflation or age-related premium changes. Unexpected treatment and dental procedures are excluded; no health-probability allowance is added. A reserve is money set aside, shown separately in the calculator.
Generated from the same inputs and engine as the calculator, so these examples update with the model. Inspect sources and assumptions or edit your own scenario.
What Changes Between Species
Cat scenarios include litter for the selected living arrangement. Dog scenarios can include training, walking and daycare when selected. These are product allocations, not a claim that cats never need paid care or behaviour support. Travel arrangements, enrichment and individual care needs matter for both.
Food depends on the suitable formulation and quantity, not species alone. Compare delivered unit prices for the same product, including repeat-order terms. Coat care depends on the individual animal; a profile flag does not establish that a professional service is always or never required.
Insurance Needs Equivalent Quotes
These model premium amounts do not establish species-wide claim rates or equivalent-cover prices. Compare benefit percentage, excess, limits, waiting periods and exclusions. The calculator adds selected premiums but does not forecast claims, treatment spending or reimbursements. See the policy guide.
First-Year and Lifetime Comparisons
Check the actual acquisition fee and procedures included. An adoption fee is not automatically every setup cost; use individual inclusion controls and registration rows. Lifetime totals use each profile’s own lifespan assumption, so compare the horizon as well as the annual amount. Unexpected treatment and dental procedures are excluded. A reserve is separate money set aside, not spending.
Browse cat budgets, dog budgets, or choose your own pair in the comparison tool. The first-year checklist helps identify missing categories.