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Break it down -

Depending on a cat's size and lifespan, it is estimated that in the US, from the minute you first cuddle your cat to the sad moment you say goodbye, the total cost ranges between $10,725-$61,520. Now, let’s break down the costs.

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Adoption -

The cost of getting a cat varies greatly depending on their age and where you're adopting them from. You could rescue a cat for free or buy one from a specialty breeder for upwards of $1,000. However, adoption usually costs between $30-$125.

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Initial vaccination -

At your cat's first vet appointment, they will need to have an exam and vaccinations. Depending on the health of your cat and the vet you go to, you can expect this to cost between $200-$390.

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Booster shots -

If you opt to get a kitten, then they will need a series of vaccination boosters for the first four months of their lives, which will cost between $100-$200. Some of these will also require annual boosters.

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Microchip -

A microchip isn’t a legal requirement in the US. However, it's highly recommended for your cat's safety, as it is the easiest way to identify them if they go missing. Plus, at $10-$35, it’s one of the cheapest expenses on this list.

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Spaying and neutering -

Again, this is a personal choice and one that could vary depending on whether your cat is allowed to go outside or if you want to breed. However, if you do decide to spay or neuter your cat, you can expect it to cost between $310-$560.

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Routine vet visits -

Routine checkups cost around $65-$89, so, in total, it is estimated that cat owners typically spend around $1,149 per year on medical expenses. This does, however, include emergency care, which can vary greatly.

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Pet insurance -

Pet insurance isn’t essential, but it could lower these costs by taking the sting out of emergency vet visits. It is a commitment, though, as it can amount to around $265-$1,210 per year.

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Food and treats -

Another big expenditure is food and treats, and this obviously varies greatly depending on the brand of food, frequency of treats, and number of meal times. However, the estimated annual cost for 2025 is between $240-$1,980.

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Pet license -

A pet license is an official registration for your pet, which is often required by local governments to ensure that they are properly vaccinated. This could cost anywhere between $4-$35.

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Hygiene -

Hygiene includes the litter, litter box, and any optional extras such as litter liners. This cost varies depending on whether or not you have an indoor or outdoor cat, but the average is between $180-$485 per year.

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Grooming -

A short-haired stray and a long-haired purebred will have very different grooming costs, which is why the average ranges between $10-$100. If you want your cat to have some extra pampering, though, a cat grooming session costs between $30-$70.

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Pet rent -

Some landlords add a monthly fee to your rent if you own a cat, which can range from $10-$50. And some even charge a pet deposit, which is refundable and usually costs between $200-500. However, be aware that some fees are nonrefundable.

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Cat flights -

If you intend to fly with your cat, the average cost is between $125-$150. However, if your cat is too large for the cabin, cargo fees range from $200-$400, depending on the airline and destination.

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Additional travel costs -

You may also need a health certificate, which costs between $50-$200. And depending on where you are going and who you are flying with, you sometimes require an airline-approved pet carrier, which costs around $50-$120.

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Cat sitters and hotels -

If, however, you decide to travel without your cat, a cat sitter typically charges $20–$80, depending on whether or not you want them to stay over. Catteries are around $15–$20 per night, and cat hotels range around $30–$40. Or you can just ask a friend or family member to help!

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Cat supplies -

This is usually a big hit to the wallet when you first get a cat and have to buy all your supplies at once—your initial cost is expected to be between $105-$1,520. Buying secondhand or getting creative can massively cut this down, though, so let’s break down the costs.

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Cat carrier -

If you just want to get your cat from the car to the vet, then a simple $20 carrier will suffice. However, if you want something a bit fancier, like a cat backpack, then it could cost anywhere between $25-$160.

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Collar -

This again can vary depending on whether your cat is just walking around the house or if they need a bell and name collar for when they’re exploring the neighborhood. You’re looking at between $5-$30.

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Scratching post or cat tree -

A simple scratching post can cost as little as $10, but a cat tree can cost over $500! Remember, however: whatever you buy, your cat will still probably scratch the side of your couch regardless....

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Food and water bowls -

You can get a cat water fountain that recycles fresh water all day, or use an old bowl from the back of your cupboard. Clearly, this cost is very adaptable depending on your budget, and can range between $4-$65.

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Cat bed -

Anyone who has ever had a cat knows that buying a cat bed is almost completely pointless. The average annual spend is between $10-$310, but, whatever you buy, your cat would most likely prefer to sleep in an empty box instead...

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Cat toys -

One of the biggest factors in rising cat costs is premium cat toys, so this expenditure is easy to cut down. Cat toys can cost anywhere from $10-$80 a year, depending on what kind of toys you buy and how often you replace them.

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Additional extras -

Unexpected expenses can mount up and should be kept in mind. From dental cleanings (which cost between $200–$600), to special diet food (between $30–$100 a bag), it adds up quick.

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Senior cats -

The cost of a senior cat drops by around 30%, due to decreased food and supply costs. However, depending on your cat’s health, you can still expect to spend over $2,000 a year on them.

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Late-stage care -

While the overall cost of having an elderly cat decreases, it’s also important to factor in late-stage care. This includes mobility aids, medication, and dental needs—which could add a whopping $3,355 per year.

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Cat cremation -

End-of-life care is costly, too. The cost of a private cat cremation is between $175–$250. You can also opt for an individual cremation for $100–$200, or a communal cremation for $30–$70.

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Cat burial -

Burial in a pet cemetery can range from $500-$2,000, including the plot, casket, and headstone. However, if you have a backyard, you can opt to bury your cat there for free instead.

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Monthly costs -

So, what is the monthly cost of having a cat? Taking this whole list into account (and basing the cost on a medium-sized, regular breed), on average, cat parents can expect to spend between $70-$260 per month.

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Annual costs -

This means that you can expect to spend between $830-$3,095 a year for kittens, and between $760-$3,495 a year for adult cats. This reflects a 10% increase from 2024—but can you really put a price on a cat cuddle?

Sources: (Rover)

See also: Common medical conditions in cats and dogs

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