The True Cost of Adopting and Caring for a Cat

Adopting a cat can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with a cost, both monetary and emotionally. While the upfront expenses, such as adoption fees and initial supplies, can vary, the ongoing care costs are often manageable.

Adoption Fees and Initial Setup

When adopting a cat, the cost can vary depending on the adoption provider. Some shelters may have lower fees or even waive them entirely for certain cats, while others may charge higher fees to cover care and maintenance. When I adopted Lucy from a shelter 12 years ago, the cost was actually quite reasonable. Adoption fees are often a good deal, as the kitties are typically up to date with vaccinations and may already be fixed. This can save a significant amount of money in the long run.

For example, I've paid adoption fees ranging from $50 to $162. The higher fee included all necessary vaccinations, such as rabies, and spaying or neutering, which can be quite costly. At the vet's on-site, everything was taken care of, and we brought home a healthy, fixed cat who is now six years old and hasn't been sick once. They remain strictly indoors to stay safe and healthy.

Monthly Care Costs

The monthly care costs for a cat can be quite nominal. Food and litter are the biggest expenses, but there are options to keep these costs down. Opening a can of cat food costs around $.55 today, and a 30-pound bag of litter can range from $8 to $17. High-end products can be more expensive, but more expensive doesn't always mean better for your kitty. Quality and suitability are key.

Supplies like a litter box (or turkey roasting pan), food and water bowls, and toys, blankets, and scratching posts can be purchased or repurposed. You can find bowls in thrift stores, and many brands offer economy options for litter and food. The largest expense will likely be veterinary bills. These costs can be hard to predict, but indoor cats generally require fewer vet visits than outdoor cats.

Veterinary Expenses

Veterinary expenses can be a significant part of the cost of cat ownership. While the cost of regular check-ups can be affordable, the need for more frequent visits for specific health issues can be more expensive. One of my cats has never needed more than annual check-ups and vaccinations, while the other, a particularly delicate kitty, has had some respiratory issues. As cats age, they often require more vet visits, similar to humans. But in the grand scheme of things, the costs are nominal compared to the joy and companionship cats bring.

Adopting an indoor cat is generally easier on the wallet and the cat's health. Outdoor cats face the risk of predation, illness, and accidents, leading to higher vet bills. My indoor cats have never been ill, but outdoor/indoor cats are more prone to such issues.

Conclusion

While the initial adoption costs and ongoing expenses can add up, the true cost of a cat goes beyond the numbers. The love, companionship, and endless entertainment a cat can provide make the experience more than worth it. I highly recommend considering adopting a cat, especially if it's an indoor-only lifestyle. It's a wonderful way to bring joy and a new family member into your home!