Cost of buying and owning a cat

How much does caring for your cat really cost?

Cats need a loving home, care and commitment. The real cost to keep a cat across their lifetime can be in the thousands if you include their basic welfare needs such as food, litter trays and pet insurance. If they live longer than average or need unexpected vet support, this cost could be higher.

Cost of cat toys and belongings

Buying all the kit for your new cat or kitten is very exciting. But it adds up quickly, and the overall price may turn your whiskers up. To keep costs down, you may be able to ask friends or family if they have any cat toys they no longer need. 

Here’s a new cat checklist of things you’ll need to get you started:

• Litter tray (at least one per cat)
• Cat tree – especially important for indoor cats
• Food and water bowls 
• Cosy bed 
• Cat scratching post
• Cat carrier 
• Brush or comb 
• Toys

One-off cat costs

Even after you’ve bought your cat and welcomed them into the family, there are some one-off cat and kitten costs that you’ll encounter in their lifetime. These include: 

• Initial vaccinations – you will need to pay for your kitten’s first vaccinations.
• Microchip – this is now a legal requirement in England. Most breeders and cat shelters will microchip their cats before they go to their forever homes, but this cost is usually passed on to the buyer. 
• Neutering and castration – is important to prevent unwanted pregnancies. The price varies depending on where you live, and it’s more expensive to spay females.
• Cat sitter – if you go on holiday or are unable to take care of your cat for a period of time, it’s your responsibility to find someone to care for them. This could be a responsible family member or friend, or you may have to take them to a cattery or pay a pet sitter to come and look after them.

Ongoing costs while owning a cat

Medical

Even after your cat’s had their initial vaccinations, they will need boosters every year to keep their protection up. They’ll also need regular worming and flea treatments – follow advice from your vet.

Litter 

You can get lots of types of litter at a variety of price points. You can choose between clumping or non-clumping and there’s a number of different materials – all with pros and cons. Options include wood, clay, tofu, paper and crystal.

Food 

The price of cat food can change depending on what you buy, with fresh wet food costing more than dry food. Listen to your vet’s advice when it comes to food and make sure you’re giving your furry friend all the nutrients they need to be happy and healthy. 

Dry food is generally very affordable and good for their teeth, but many cats prefer wet food – and it has higher water content. Some cat parents opt to give their pets a mixture of both. Premium brands also offer whole meat or even raw options. Regardless of what you feed your cat, fresh water should always be available.

Cat insurance

It’s no secret that vet bills can be pricey, but cat insurance may be able to help you with treatment, medication or behavioural therapy costs. Take out cat or kitten insurance as soon as you bring them home. As with most insurance policies, existing conditions aren’t covered.

Unexpected cat costs 

Sometimes things go wrong. If your kitty has an accident or catches an illness, knowing you’re prepared with pet insurance may help. That way, if you’re hit with vet bills out of the blue, you can access support when it comes to footing the bill.

End of life cat costs 

While it’s unbearable to think about your feline crossing the rainbow bridge, it’s something you need to be able to budget for. Specialist food, medical costs, euthanasia and cremation are costs you may need to face when your cat gets older.