Average Annual Cost Of A Cat
Introduction
Cats are one of the most popular pets in America, but they’re also one of the most expensive. Pet owners spend an average of $1,035 on their cats each year, and that number can rise or fall based on a variety of factors. Here’s what to expect costs-wise if you’re thinking about adding a feline member to your family:
Cost of food
The average cost of cat food is $2.55 per pound. You’ll want to buy at least 8 pounds of the cheapest dry kibble, which comes out to about $18 for a 40-pound bag (and that’s just for one week). If you’re feeding wet food in addition to dry, go with a 4-ounce can every day. If you have multiple cats, it’s more economical—and more convenient—to buy bulk sizes at Costco or another warehouse store like BJ’s Wholesale Club. A 50-pound bag will last six months if you feed your pet ¼ cup each day; otherwise, they’ll be gone in three months at most!
Cost of litter
The cost of litter is a big variable in the cost of owning a cat. The price varies widely depending on the type of litter you choose and how often you clean out your cat’s box.
- Type of litter–The most common types of cat litter are clay, wheat, silica gel crystals and pine pellets. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages for both cats and their owners:
Clay—This type is absorbent but dusty when cats dig through it; also it can be hard on sensitive paws (and noses). It is more expensive than other options but lasts longer than other types because it absorbs odors so well.
- Amount used–How much you need to buy depends on which kind of litter you use, how many cats live in your house or apartment, how often they go number two in their boxes (cat-speak for pooping), etc..
Cost of vet care
In the United States, average annual cost of a cat is $875. This figure can range from $10 to $1,000 or more depending on how your pet is cared for and if you have any chronic health issues to contend with. The type of vet you use will also play a role in this cost as well as whether or not your pet has special needs due to age or health conditions.
The most expensive part of owning a cat is definitely the veterinary bills which can run into hundreds of dollars each year even if you have an otherwise healthy animal. Your cat will need shots every year and some may require vaccines every three years instead of annually. In addition to shots, many cats need heartworm meds once per month throughout mosquito season (April through November). Other common expenses include flea treatment ($25-$50), deworming ($15-$30), spay/neuter surgery ($100-$300), cancer treatment medications and food supplements like L-Lysine (around $10 per month).
Cat owners spend a lot of money each year on taking care of their kitties.
Cat owners spend a lot of money each year on taking care of their kitties. But how much? The average annual cost of a cat is $1029, but it varies based on factors like the breed and whether you have a male or female. The following table shows the estimated costs of different aspects of owning a cat, listed in order from highest to lowest:
- Food—$500 per year
- Litter—$250 per year
- Vet care—$150 per year
Conclusion
With all these costs, it’s easy to see why some people might be tempted by cheaper alternatives like free-roaming cats! But taking care of a cat is more than just providing food and medical care; it’s about giving them love and attention. No matter how much money you spend on your kitty, the amount of joy they will bring into your life is priceless!