It’s easy to see why cats and kittens are such beloved pets. They are loving, adorable, and can be the perfect companion for someone who may not want to deal with a dog’s high energy levels.
However, while they tend to be considered relatively low-maintenance, they can still be expensive to care for. You may have thought about things such as food, toys, and bedding, but other expenses can quickly add up.
Below, we will talk about the five hidden costs of owning a cat.
Want to learn more? Then let’s get started.
Insurance
You may not be aware, but pet insurance for cats is extremely important. Veterinarian services are necessary, and you want to ensure that your furry friend can get the help they need in the event of an accident. And in the event of an infection, you should also make sure that you bring your furry friend to a veterinarian for ampicillin trihydrate treatment.
When looking at plans, make sure to compare your options carefully. You’ll want to have adequate coverage, and each company has different pros and cons.
Desexing
Since cats are known to roam and escape, desexing is a crucial cost that you will need to consider. Females, in particular, need to be spayed. Otherwise, you could end up with a box of kittens unexpectedly.
The cost of the procedure is cheaper for males than females, but again this will depend on where you live. On average, it can range between $200-$500. You should also be aware that kittens need extra food to grow and develop properly during their early stages of life.
Litter
If you plan on having your kitty inside, litter is an essential that you may have forgotten about. It might not seem like a lot of money at the time, but it can add up to cost hundreds of dollars every year.
Alongside the litter itself, you’ll also have to replace the box and other tools regularly to keep things hygienic. Of course, you could look at other methods, such as toilet training your cat too.
Furniture Upgrades
One bad habit that many cats have is scratching and ripping furniture with their claws. Unfortunately, this means that you may have to replace things like your chairs and couch regularly or invest in ways to protect them. One effective strategy is to provide engaging alternatives such as cat toys or scratching posts to divert their attention away from your furniture. You may have already heard about specific cat scratching posts, but these clever creatures often avoid them and go straight for your most prized positions. Introducing a variety of stimulating cat toys can also help in keeping them entertained and less inclined to use your furniture as their scratching post. Not to mention they can leave behind a lot of fur.
Grooming
Cats are incredibly clean and take pride in grooming themselves. However, it’s still important to note that some breeds are exceptionally high maintenance and may require using pet self wash stations.
Long-medium hair cats and Ragdoll kittens can get tangles and even overheat during the summer months. A visit to the groomer for a simple trim and bath can be around $50 every few weeks. If your cat has developed an itch then you probably need some frontline plus for cats which is available here.
Final Words And that’s it. These were five hidden costs of owning a cat. So before you welcome a new friend into the family, it’s worth doing some research. A cat gets lonely without other cats so consider getting two cats. As a responsible pet owner, you want to ensure that they have everything they need to live a long, happy and healthy life.