Pet Blog > A Cost Guide for New Kitty Parents

A Cost Guide for New Kitty Parents

Adopting a cat or kitten is very rewarding, but what does it cost? Don’t underestimate the money it costs to take care of your feline friend and give adoption serious consideration first. Do you have the available resources in the event of a veterinary emergency? What if your new pet requires boarding or pet-sitting while you’re away?

In this guide, we discuss all the costs related to kitty care as you contemplate cat adoption.

Adoption Fees

The first cost associated with adopting a shelter cat is an adoption fee. The price of this varies based on geographic location and the age of the cat. Even adopting a pet from a breeder or private party usually includes a rehoming fee, which may run lower than the humane society or shelter.

Veterinary Care

The biggest expense of cat ownership is veterinary care. Just like humans, cats need medical care from time to time.

Make sure to get your cat microchipped first thing- to ensure you can find them should they become lost. This is inexpensive, not more than $25 per pet.

Also, plan on flea and tick treatment for your kitty, as well as core vaccines. These are essential shots that are required during the cat’s wellness visit. Schedule this right away. If your pet spends time outdoors, they will need a feline leukemia vaccine. Feline leukemia is fatal among 85% of cats infected; plus, they can transmit or spread it easily among other cats. Even young kittens that are going to be kept indoors should get a feline leukemia vaccine during their first round of vaccinations. The cost of the shot varies, but the average cost of a feline leukemia vaccine runs around $75.

Spay & Neuter

Speaking of veterinary care, don’t forget to have your pet spayed or neutered to help curb the population of unplanned and often unwanted cats. When you adopt from the humane society, they may set up an appointment to have the pet spayed or neutered, often at a discounted rate. Some programs and events periodically offer discounted services to spay and neuter cats. Check your local humane society to find out more. 

Cats should be spayed before five months of age, ideally, and expect this to cost somewhere around $200.

Dental Care

If you are adopting an older cat, you may need to have some dental care performed. Dental care is closely connected to overall health, just like in humans. Don’t let your cat suffer with decay or dental issues- have their teeth periodically cleaned by your vet. The cost varies depending on location but can be anywhere between a few hundred to $2,000 per year.

Food

If ‘you are what you eat’, make sure to buy high-quality cat kibble that is not all filler. Some cats are sensitive and allergic to ingredients in inexpensive dry cat food; ask your vet what is best for your pet based on their age, condition, and weight.

Also, remember that human treats are not necessarily good for cats and that they contribute to plaque on the teeth which could cause decay. If you are going to feed your cat people food, consider cooked, lean meats, fish, boiled eggs, sweet potatoes, and cooked carrots.

Supplies and Toys

Make sure to include the cost of supplies, like cat litter, and toys, too. Keeping your cat busy with toys, puzzles, and games will help them from becoming bored or destructive, like clawing on furniture. Providing your cats with a scratch post will also curb this behavior.

Preventative Care

If you want to prevent some costly issues, consider supplements for holistic well-being, like CBD for cats. Speak with your veterinarian before administering pet cannabidiol products or CBD. Cannabidiol products are fast becoming a homeopathic treatment for many pet issues, as well as a great preventative that is cost-effective. The advantages of giving your cat CBD include:

• Chronic pain relief, such as arthritic pain among older cats.

• Aid in preventing incontinence.

• Reduces severity and frequency of seizures.

• Lowers stress and anxiety.

• Can be helpful in treating certain types of cancer among cats.

• Can calm nervous cats during stressful situations.

Only give your cat those products that are marketed and labeled for pets, never human-grade CBD which could be toxic. Follow the recommended dosage instructions, too. Your veterinarian may be able to determine the best products for your pet specifically.

CBD is different from catnip, which cats consume purely for pleasure. While CBD provides therapeutic benefits, catnip is to cats what cannabis is for humans.

Slush Fund

Don’t wait for a cat emergency to try and put aside some money- if you are able, start a slush fund now! Putting aside a few dollars earmarked for your pets can be a relief and comfort, particularly if a crisis should arise. Pet insurance can provide a safety net for your cats when and if they experience a medical emergency; talk to your veterinarian to find out more regarding insurance plans and coverage.

Your slush fund may also come in handy if you need to board your cat during a vacation or time away. It makes sense to establish a relationship with a local boarder or pet sitter for these times so that the pet develops a sense of familiarity with whoever is watching them. Furthermore, if you are having home construction, renovations, or noisy events, it may help your cat to visit a kennel or sitter to keep them away from the chaos, which may be quite stressful. Again, CBD products for cats may be helpful in calming them and preventing them from fleeing.

The benefits of owning a cat are immense; cats can provide a calming presence in the home, offering companionship and comfort. Cats are independent, often requiring less care and attention than dogs, but do not underestimate the costs surrounding adoption of cats or kittens. Always consider the costs and practicality of a pet before bringing one home.

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