Pet ownership is on the rise around the world, and it’s easy to see why – advancements in training knowledge, breeding programs, and food quality have made living with pets easier than ever. Animals have played a vital role in providing comfort and companionship to humans in the midst of the global pandemic. As a result, more and more people have discovered the rewarding experience of having a pet.
Cats are some of the most popular pets in the world, and the rise in ownership rates has turned many novice cat parents into full-blown cat lovers. In fact, it’s not unheard of for a first-time cat owner to eventually become a registered cat breeder after a couple of years of owning a cat.
If you’re thinking of adding a feline friend to your family, you’re probably wondering how much it costs to own a cat. The truth is, the cost of cat ownership can vary widely, depending on a number of factors such as the age and health of your cat, whether you adopt or purchase from a breeder, and any other special needs the cat may have.
Initial Costs
The upfront costs of cat ownership include the purchase price (if you’re buying from a breeder) or adoption fee (if you’re adopting from a shelter or rescue organisation), as well as the cost of vaccinations, microchipping, and other veterinary care.
If you’re purchasing a purebred cat from a responsible breeder, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1,500. If you’re adopting, the average adoption fee is around $100, although some organisations may have higher or lower fees. While it may seem as though the breeder cost is steep, good breeders know the genetic profile of their animals and can advise you of any potential health risks for their cats. Health checks and genetic tests are part of the upfront cost for a kitten that comes from an ethical breeder.
Vaccinations and Veterinary Care
All cats, regardless of whether they’re purchased or adopted, need to be up-to-date on their vaccinations. Your cat will need a series of kitten vaccinations, starting at around 8 weeks of age, as well as an annual booster shot. The cost of vaccinations will vary depending on your location and the veterinarian you use, but you can expect to pay around $100-$200 per year for vaccinations.
In addition to vaccinations, all cats should be spayed or neutered. The cost of spaying or neutering a cat ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the veterinarian you use and the age of your cat.
As part of responsible cat ownership, you should also budget for routine and emergency veterinary care. The cost of routine care, such as annual checkups and vaccinations, will vary depending on your location and the veterinarian you use. However, you can expect to pay around $200-$300 per year for routine veterinary care.
The cost of emergency veterinary care can vary widely, depending on the nature of the emergency and the treatment required. For example, the cost of treating a cat for a broken bone could range from $1,000 to $3,000, while the cost of treating a cat for kidney disease could range from $4,000 to $8,000.
Food and Litter
Another cost to consider is the cost of food and litter. The type of food you feed your cat will affect the cost, with premium brands costing more than economy brands. The cost of food will also vary depending on the size and age of your cat. Kittens and adult cats have different nutritional needs, so be sure to consult your veterinarian about the best food for your cat.
The cost of litter will also vary, depending on the type you choose. Clumping clay litter is the most popular type of litter, and it typically costs around $10-$20 for a 20-pound bag.
Other Costs
In addition to the costs mentioned above, there are a few other costs to consider when budgeting for your new cat. These include the cost of a litter box, cat toys, and cat furniture.
A litter box typically costs around $20, although you may be able to find one for less at a thrift store or pet store. Cat toys can range in cost from a few dollars to $20 or more, depending on the type of toy. Cat furniture, such as a cat tree or scratching post, can also vary in cost, but you can expect to pay around $100 or more for a good-quality cat tree.
As you can see, the cost of cat ownership can vary widely, depending on a number of factors. Be sure to budget for the upfront costs, as well as the ongoing costs of food, litter, and veterinary care. With a little planning, you can ensure that you’re prepared for the financial responsibility of owning a cat. You’re then free to enjoy your time with your new furry companion and give them the best life possible – and that’s really what owning a cat is all about.
