Planning for the Cost of Having a Cat

Initial Cost

• Accidental litters often result in people giving away cats for free or at a low cost. While this sounds enticing, it is unlikely that the cat you receive will have been spayed or neutered, resulting in an average one-time fee of $145. Keep in mind that neutering males costs less than spaying females as it is a simpler procedure. Alternatively, adopting from a shelter or rescue costs about $40 but guarantees that the cat is fixed and vaccinated. You may even return to the rescue for future medical care. Those looking for a specific breed, such as a Maine Coon or Siamese, will spend hundreds, or even a thousand dollars for a single cat. Be aware that these breeds often come with certain health issues which can affect the cost of food and veterinary care later on.

Medical Care

• A $20 to $40 carrier is necessary to safely transport your cat to his veterinarian. The initial visit will cost about $130 and yearly visits cost about $160 to $180. Some veterinarians will cost much more than others depending on the area, so it is beneficial to shop around, inquiring about prices for basic care before taking your cat. The vet visit includes a physical check up, vaccinations, and preventative flea and tick medication, which your cat needs even if kept indoors as the bugs can still enter your home. Should you allow your cat outdoors, a collar and tag will run $25 and microchipping costs at least $45. Some emergencies may cost thousands of dollars, especially if surgery is needed, and most emergency visits are associated with injuries or urinary tract infections.

Lowering Medical Care Expenses

• At an annual cost of about $175, pet insurance is an option that can aid in lowering the cost of expensive medical bills. Insurance policies will vary, though more comprehensive plans will come at a higher price. Since providing care for a cat should never become a financial burden, there are rescues, non-profit associations and even veterinary schools which offer an array of medical care for free or at a low cost. This is especially helpful for senior citizens, the disabled, poor or those with recent monetary difficulties. Contact these associations to determine if you qualify for their financial assistance.

Food

• Along with the initial cost of $10 to $20 for simple food and water bowls, the food itself will cost $115 to $240 each year depending on a variety of factors. Canned wet food typically costs more than dry foods while some higher priced choices are tailored to cats with sensitive stomachs or hairball issues. Know that cheaper food with less than ideal ingredients may come at the expense of your cat's health. Discuss with your vet how to provide a healthy diet for your particular cat while maintaining affordability.

Litter

• A $10 to $20 litter box will need to be filled with litter of your cat's choosing. Litter itself costs $140 to 165 a year and, as it needs to be scooped or changed often, the cost can go even higher. Cats tend to be picky creatures when it comes to the litter and if yours does not like the smell of an unwashed box or the feel of a particular type of litter, he may choose to go to the bathroom elsewhere.

Entertainment

• Toys cost a minimum of $25 depending on what you get and how much they are used. Simple options include shoelaces, a feather wand and catnip-filled tossing toys, and your cat will love the time you spend playing with him. Mechanical toys, such as those featuring a laser pointer, will cost more.

Grooming

• Though cats bathe themselves, it is important to have certain grooming supplies on hand. A simple brush and nail clippers will cost between $15 and $24. Regular brushing is especially helpful as cats shed. Determine if you can manage clipping your cat's claws at home before considering taking him to the vet more often for claw clipping services. Scratching posts are helpful to wear down the claws and train your cat to not scratch the furniture or carpets. These range from $10 for a basic post to over $100 for a kitty condo.