Pet CO2 Emissions
This calculator estimates the annual CO2 emissions associated with your companion animals, based on the most recent scientific studies. The goal is not to guilt pet owners, but to offer awareness about the overall environmental impact of our lifestyle.
How a Pet's Carbon Footprint Is Calculated
Pet emissions come primarily from three sources: food production (the largest factor, especially due to meat content), litter (for cats, mineral litter has a higher impact than biodegradable options), and veterinary care (medications, transport, facilities).
According to Martens et al. (Global Environmental Change, 2022), a cat produces about 200 kg of CO2 per year, while a dog ranges from 250 kg (small breed) to 650 kg (large breed). The difference is mainly due to the amount of food consumed.
Context and Perspective
A large dog produces emissions equivalent to about 5 short-haul round-trip flights. That sounds like a lot, but it represents about 10-12% of an average person's annual footprint. Transport, home heating, and food together account for a much larger share.
The benefits of companion animals on mental and physical health are well documented: stress reduction, increased physical activity, and emotional support. Calculating emissions helps make conscious choices (food type, litter, accessories) without giving up the companionship of our four-legged friends.