Are you considering adding a furry feline to your household? Cats make great companions and can bring endless joy to their owners. However, before you bring home a new cat, it’s important to understand the costs associated with owning one. One popular option for adopting a cat is through PetSmart, but how much can you expect to spend on your new furry friend? In this article, we’ll break down the costs of cats at PetSmart and help you budget accordingly. From adoption fees to necessary supplies, we’ll cover everything you need to know to financially prepare for your new addition.
How Much Are Cats at PetSmart?
Are you considering getting a new furry friend from PetSmart? Cats are great companions and can bring lots of joy into your home. However, before you make the decision to adopt a cat from PetSmart, it’s important to know how much it will cost you. From adoption fees to supplies, we’ll break down all the expenses you can expect when getting a cat from PetSmart.
Adoption Fees
First and foremost, adopting a cat from PetSmart is much more affordable than buying one from a breeder. The adoption fees cover the cost of caring for the cats while they are in PetSmart’s care, including food, shelter, and medical care.
The adoption fees at PetSmart may vary depending on the location and the type of cat you are interested in. On average, the adoption fee for a cat at PetSmart ranges from $50 to $150.
It’s worth noting that the adoption fees may also include spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping. This can save you hundreds of dollars compared to getting these services done on your own.
Supplies
Aside from the adoption fees, you also need to consider the cost of supplies for your new cat. These items are essential for your cat’s well-being and should not be overlooked. Some of the supplies you will need to budget for include:
- Litter box: $10 to $50
- Litter: $5 to $15 per month
- Cat food: $10 to $30 per month
- Food and water bowls: $5 to $10
- Sleeping bed: $10 to $50
- Scratching post: $15 to $30
- Toys: $5 to $20
- Grooming tools: $10 to $30
These are just some of the basic supplies you will need for your cat. Keep in mind that these costs can add up over time, especially if you opt for higher quality products.
Medical Expenses
Just like any other pet, cats also require medical care. It’s important to keep your cat healthy and up to date with vaccinations and check-ups. The cost of medical expenses for a cat can vary depending on several factors, such as age, health condition, and location.
If your cat needs any medical treatment, the cost can range from $50 for a basic check-up to thousands of dollars for major surgeries or treatments. To prepare for unexpected medical costs, you may want to consider getting pet insurance. PetSmart also offers affordable wellness packages that include routine exams, vaccinations, and more at a discounted price.
Other Expenses
Aside from the basic expenses mentioned above, there may be other costs associated with owning a cat that you should be aware of. These expenses may include:
- Pet deposit: If you’re renting, your landlord may require a pet deposit which can range from $100 to $500.
- Training classes: If you have a kitten, you may want to consider enrolling them in training classes which can cost around $50 to $100 per session.
- Pet-sitting or boarding: If you plan on traveling, you may need to budget for pet-sitting or boarding services, which can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 per day.
- Repairs or replacements: Cats can be mischievous creatures, so you may need to budget for any potential damages to your furniture or household items.
Final Thoughts
The cost of getting a cat at PetSmart may seem overwhelming at first, but it’s important to remember that owning a pet is a long-term commitment. It’s crucial to budget for all the necessary expenses to ensure that you can provide the best care for your new furry friend.
Remember to also consider the ongoing costs of owning a cat, such as food, litter, and medical expenses. It’s always a good idea to have an emergency fund set aside in case of unexpected expenses.
Overall, the cost of getting a cat at PetSmart is relatively affordable compared to buying from a breeder. By adopting from PetSmart, you not only save money, but you are also giving a loving home to a cat in need.
References:
- PetSmart Charities: Adoption Fees
- PetSmart Charities: Adopt a Cat
- Petfinder: Cost of Owning a Cat
- PetMD: How Much Does it Cost to Own a Cat?
In conclusion, bringing home a new furry friend from PetSmart is an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it is important to budget and prepare for the costs associated with owning a cat. From adoption fees to supplies, it is important to consider all expenses before making the commitment. With the information provided in this article, you can now confidently plan and budget for your new feline companion. Remember to also consider the ongoing costs of food, vet visits, and other necessities to ensure that your cat receives the best care possible. With responsible ownership and proper budgeting, you and your new cat can form a loving and lasting bond.
John Rodgers, a seasoned wordsmith at LiveTheTopLife.com, weaves narratives that inspire and inform. With a passion for lifestyle, wellness, and personal development, his articles offer a unique blend of wisdom and practical insights, guiding readers to live their best lives.