Digital bank Monzo today reveals that three in four couples don’t have a ‘pet-nup’, an agreement outlining who keeps a pet if a relationship ends, which leaves them vulnerable to more than just a broken heart; caring for their pet alone can cost up to £1,455 a year.
The research of 2,000 UK pet owners in relationships found that although most couples haven’t planned for what would happen to their pet after a breakup, those who have say it gives them peace of mind (55%). Among couples with a ‘pet-nup’, almost two-thirds (64%) arranged it to protect their pet’s wellbeing, and almost a third (31%) did so to safeguard their finances.
Monzo’s research also revealed:
- More than a third (38%) said they would expect to have sole custody of their pet if they split from their partner.
- Only one in seven (14%) couples split pet expenses equally, showing that equality stops at the food bowl.
- Almost half (40%) of couples admitted to arguing about pet-related spending, highlighting how shared ownership can cause tension when it comes to money.
- Women were more likely than men to buy more gifts and treats for their beloved pets than their partners (73% vs 65%).
With so few couples splitting things equally, it’s perhaps no surprise that some are turning to formal agreements to avoid conflict later on. ‘Pet-nups’ are most common among couples in Greater London (37%), compared with just 17% in the South West, suggesting Londoners are more proactive about protecting both their pets and their finances.
• The average cost of caring for a pet alone is £1,455 a year
• 75% of couples don’t have a ‘pet-nup’ agreement in place
• 64% have never discussed what would happen to their pet after a breakup
• 40% have argued about pet-related spending
Chris Mucklow-Norell, Head of Brand Marketing at Monzo, said: “Sharing a pet should be one of the joys of being in a relationship, not a source of stress. But with 75% of couples admitting they don’t have an agreement in place for who would keep the pet if they split, it’s clear that many haven’t planned for what could happen if things go wrong. Having the conversation early helps couples protect both their finances and their furry friends.”
Monzo’s Top Tips for Managing Shared Pet Costs:
- Talk early: Have an open conversation about how you’ll handle pet costs, and what would happen if things changed.
- Keep track together: Find a way to make spending visible. Joint accounts make this a breeze, allowing both partners to see costs in real-time.
- Plan ahead: Put money aside in a Monzo pot for things like vet bills, insurance or food, and agree how you’ll both contribute.
- Stay flexible: Review spending every few months to keep things fair as circumstances change.
- Put your pet first: Whatever happens, make decisions that prioritise your pet’s wellbeing above everything else.
To read more about Monzo’s ‘Price of a Pet-nup’ research, please visit: https://monzo.com/blog/hidden-costs-of-shared-pet-ownership
