How much owning a cat costs

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Cats are not cheap, even though they might seem to just need food instead of batteries. Cats require food, hygiene supplies, and equipment to be domesticated. Cost Helper claims the average cost of food over a 10 year period amounts to $1,888. The costs add up as well; after adoption fees, set up costs, and 14 years of care,  Petside estimates the total cost of owning a cat is between $8,0000 - $10,000. That's a low estimate compared to Cat World's of $14,000 for the same period of time.

Ferel cats aren't cheap either. According to the American Medical Veterinary Association, ferel cats cost tax payers $16 billion. Those costs go toward trap-neuter-return programs, or less pleasant things such as euthanasia. The Solana Ferel Cat Group states TNR programs are also the cheaper alternative, costing 50 percent less than euthanasia methods of animal control. Responsible pet ownership programs are a key part of keeping these costs under control as they reduce excess breeding, temporary housing costs and catch and release expenses.

A low-budget cat helps lower costs to approximately $5,000 over its lifetime; this is a substantial savings. For example, bulk alternatives to litter such as aspen bedding is more cost effective. This can also be obtained from farm supply stores for around $20 for 2.2 cubic feet. Compared to conventional litter, which might last a little longer, it is still a better deal because there's up to seven time more of it, and it is much lighter to handle than sand and clay litters. Other cost saving methods include adopting free cats, using hand-me-down cat supplies or thrift items for bowls and litter boxes, and hand making cat toys.

Unforeseen cat expenses are often a reality and include medical costs and damage to furniture. Preventing damage from lonely cats can also be costly if another cat becomes the solution to that problem. To help reduce medical costs, pay close attention to the cats living environment and individual health. For instance, preventative flea treatments cost far less than veterinary visits stemming from flea problems. Additional preventative measures include brushing your cat's teeth, spaying/neutering, vaccinations and micro-chipping.