Thinking Of Getting A Kitten?

“BE KIND” think and plan carefully before you get a kitty. Are you ready to take on the responsibility of looking after a cat?

Ask a veterinarian questions about cat care and the habits of cats. Also talk to people who have cats and read books about what a kitty requires.

Once you decide that a cat is the right pet foryou, choose one carefully. Remember to have your kitty neutered or spayed if this has not already been done.

Keep your cat happy and healthy by providing nutritious food, clean water, playtime, love, and regular veterinary care. Keep your cat safely indoors. A well cared for cat will reward you with many years of love and companionship!

If a cat is in your future, be sure to visit your local animal shelter to see what kittens or cats they have available for adoption.

Choosing a kitten or cat from an animal shelter could save you a lot of money in vet fees! Not to mention the fact that by adopting a shelter cat, you are saving a life. You are also doing your part to help the cat over-population problem.

Animal shelters are filled with cats and kittens in need of loving homes. Each year, unfortunately, thousands of them have to be euthanised because there are no homes available for them.

Let's Think About The Cost

The cost of care for a “FREE” female kitten without any prior vaccinations may be over $800 for the first year! Each following year may cost $500 or more. Can you afford the time and money that it takes to keep a cat happy and healthy? The following costs are based on providing for a cat in New Brunswick. Costs may be much higher in other places.

FOOD: (Prices vary greatly depending on type of food used).
Nutritionally complete dry food $20/bag = $240/year.
Canned food is optional ($1.00 per can). Also, consider the cost of “treats”.

SUPPLIES: (There may be many other items that you wish to purchase for your cat. These are just the basics).
- ID Tag: $10; Collar, harness & leash: $30; Nail clippers: $5
- Litter Pan: $10 - $50; Litter: $120/year; Brush & Comb: $15
- Pet Bed: $30; Travel kennel: $30; Litter box scoop: $2
- Toys: $20 - $50; Scratching post: $20; Bowls: $10
- Care while away (kennel or in-home): $10 - $12/day

VET FEES: (Some vets offer “kitten programs” that provide for spay/neuter, vaccinations and worming at a reduced rate).
- Neuter (males) $75+ or Spay (females) $100+
- 1st year vaccinations for kitten: $100
- Annual vaccinations for adult cat: $50
- Worming medication: $10
- Flea control: $50
- Feline leukemia test & vaccination: $60
- Office call for problems such as ear mites, urinary tract infection, eye infection, skin conditions, cuts, abscesses: $40 + cost of treatment
- If your cat is kept indoors, there is less chance that you will have these expenses, and more chance your cat will live a longer, healthier life! Cats that roam have a life expectancy of only 2 - 3 years.

TIME: Playing, feeding, grooming, visits to a vet, changing litter, and more. Remember... a cat may live for over 20 years!

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