The fee is how much?!
Routinely, some potential adopters are alarmed by the fee charged by our rescue, and others, to adopt a cat. The adoption fee, however, is only the beginning.
We in no way want to put off potential adopters, however, we also want you to be aware of the costs of ownership. We have linked a chart outlining costs for having a cat for a year, however, real life cases will vary. For instance, visit any pet store and you will see wildly varying costs for cat food, be it kibble or dry food. You need decent food for your pet, just as you want decent food for yourself, but it does not have to be the most expensive available. Even litter will vary in price and some store brands will be just fine and not cost so much.
In terms of even routine veterinary care, fees will vary considerably. Look for recommendations from other pet owners and do your own research so you can find a good balance that works for you.
The Adoption Fee
The adoption fee allows rescues to do little more than break even. If the cat or kitten needed additional veterinary care, and that happens very often, then we in fact lose money. Some cats and kittens have cost hundreds (or thousands) of dollars in veterinary care, even before being offered for adoption. Read four real-life stories.
There are “free” kittens
We also hear comments that ‘they can get a free kitten on kijiji’. Really, you think it is free? In all probability, that free kitten has never seen a vet, never been immunized or wormed or treated for fleas. Most likely it has not been neutered or microchipped. Check with a veterinarian and see how much all that will cost you. Neutering alone will cost you more than the rescue adoption fee. Often owners are anxious to give away the kittens and they are put up for adoption long before it is wise to do so, increasing the likelihood of both behavioural and medical problems. Read this real-life example.
The Essentials
If this is your first cat, you will need to purchase some essential items before you bring home kitty. You will need that carrier to transport your new pet and will need that same carrier for future vet visits. You must have a litter box and litter and a scoop. And more litter because it needs to be scooped and changed regularly. You will need a few toys, basic grooming tools, feed bowls and, of course, an ongoing supply of food. A climber would be welcomed by kitty, and a nice bed to sleep in.
Ongoing Costs
There are so many reasons that owning a cat is a wonderful experience and enriches your life, but cat ownership does come with a cost. Linked below is a .pdf chart from the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, updated in 2021, giving you some approximate costs for one year for both a cat and a kitten. You might be shocked.
Pet Insurance
Pet insurance is an option to cover those unexpected veterinary bills but look carefully at plans as some things are covered and some are not. It is up to the owner to make that decision.
Fostering?
If all this is overwhelming, have you considered fostering as a way to learn more about cat care and whether it is right for you?