Costs will vary depending on where you live. Use the
worksheet below to help you plan for the adoption of
your new cat.
|
ONE-TIME COSTS
|
| Adoption fee. |
$__________ |
| Collar, harness, and leash. |
$__________ |
| Food and water bowls. |
$__________ |
| Bedding. This can be one of many types of
pet beds, or just a comfy towel or blanket that your
new cat can call her own. Of course, your cat might
just decide to claim your bed as her own! |
$__________ |
| Kitten shots (if you're adopting a kitten).
Kittens need a couple sets of shots to help protect them
until their immune systems are fully developed. |
$__________ |
| Spay/neuter surgery. This will prevent adding
to the pet overpopulation problem (even if you are able
to find homes for the litter, that means there are even
fewer available homes for the pets waiting at animal
shelters and rescue organizations). Some shelters and
pet rescue organizations include the cost of spay/neuter
surgery in their adoption fee. If you cannot afford the
cost of surgery, ask your local vet or SPCA about
spay/neuter programs you may qualify for.
|
$__________ |
| Identification. This can include a city license tag
(if required), general ID tag, tattoo, and/or microchip. It's
important for your pet to wear proper, up-to-date ID at all
times, just in case she gets lost!
|
City License: $__________
ID tag: $__________
Tattoo: $__________
Microchip: $__________
|
| Grooming supplies - brush/comb, nail clippers, etc.
|
$__________ |
| Litter box and scoop.
|
$__________ |
| Scratching post. Cats naturally like to climb and
to scratch.
|
$__________ |
| Kennel or crate. This will be a safe place for
your cat if you have to travel or move. Some cats like to
'hide' in them and snuggle down for a sleep!
|
$__________ |
|
ON-GOING COSTS
|
| Cat food (dry/moist). Factor in any additional
costs if your cat requires prescription food.
|
$__________ |
| Treats.
|
$__________ |
| Toys - although many cats are content with to
play with paper bags or other ordinary household items.
|
$__________ |
| Annual check-up and shots. A regular visit
to the vet will help to ensure your pet remains healthy
and that any problems are caught early.
|
$__________ |
| Specialized medication such as flea control
(if your cat is permitted outdoors), or hairball
medication.
|
$__________ |
| Boarding or pet-sitting costs if you don't
intend to take your cat when you travel.
|
$__________ |
| Grooming. Some cats have higher grooming
needs than others. Budget for these costs if you plan to
use the services of a professional groomer.
|
$__________ |
| Kitty litter.
|
$__________ |
|
ADDITIONAL COSTS
|
| Repair or replacement of items that may be damaged
by an overly-enthusiastic kitty. Cats scratch. They can
be taught to scratch only "their" stuff, but until
then, you may find yourself with a shredded couch, courtesy
of your mischievous kitty.
|
$__________ |
| Unforeseen or emergency veterinary care. Our
feline friends can become ill, too. Sometimes it may
require nothing more than a check-up at your friendly
neighbourhood vet's; other times it may require
hospitalization or specialized treatment. Some pet
owners choose to purchase pet insurance for peace
of mind. Include in your budget a thorough dental
cleaning every few years or as recommended by your vet.
|
$__________ |
