How Much Does It Cost to Own a Cat? 8 Key Factors You Must Know

Many say that money should not matter when owning a pet because love is all that matters. Even if you believe this concept, you need to have the financial capacity to take care of your pet. Although owning a cat is significantly economical than having a dog, cat ownership can be surprisingly expensive. Let’s discuss all the factors that contribute to the cost of owning a cat.

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Adoption expenses of cats

The very first thing that you need to keep in mind is the cost of adoption. This amount can vary a lot because it depends on the location of the shelter and the type of cat. According to All About Cats, the adoption fee generally ranges from $50 to $200.

If you feel that this is too much, you will need to wait for special cat adoption events. Alternatively, you may get a cat from a rescue organization for a reduced price. In most cases, neutering is included in this cost. Normally, shelter cats have regular medical checkups that allow you to leave with your new pet without any worries.

Some shelters, such as the Animal Foundation in Las Vegas, are known to waive adoption fees completely as a part of “shelter clearance”.

How much does cat food cost per year?

The type and brand you choose will determine the annual cost of food for your cats. Cat foods can cost anywhere between $0.25-$7 per day. It all depends on whether you are buying grocery store cat food or a premium brand.

Many cheaper options provide almost the same amount of nourishment as an expensive brand. Despite that, you shouldn’t go TOO cheap when choosing a cat food brand for your feline friend. This is because very cheap food is more likely to make your kitty sick. As a result, you will have to pay thousands of dollars in vet fees.

If you cannot afford a very premium brand, go for something that is neither too cheap nor very expensive. Some of the healthiest and cost-friendly cat foods are listed below.

It’s highly recommended to give quality preference over cost when choosing cat food. You may be surprised to find out that many high-quality cat food brands are actually cheaper than your expectations.