How much does it cost having a cat? And the price of neutering? Everything you need to know!

Having a pet is very important, as they bring joy to the whole family. And, due to each individual's personality, it's possible to choose from a variety of animals to adopt. Among them, one of the most popular is the cat.

But do you know how much it costs to have a cat? Do you know what you need to make sure it lives well in your home?

In this article, we'll provide you with all the information you need about how much it costs to own a cat and the neutering process. Read on for all the information.

Cat utensil costs

Here we will tell you how much it costs:

• Beds and shelters
• Feeders
• Drinking fountains and fountains
• Carrier
• Litter box
• Cat litter
• Scratcher
• Brush
• Toys

See here also the cost of the all-important castration!

How much does it cost to have a cat?

When calculating the costs associated with raising a cat, it's essential to consider a variety of accessories that meet their needs and provide comfort. Here are some options and price ranges for these items:

Beds and Shelters

Cats enjoy the comfort of sleeping in a protected space, and the market offers a variety of options, from cave-shaped beds to houses, pillows, and mattresses.

Prices range from around R$ 50 for simple options to over R$ 400 for more elaborate and decorative beds.

Feeders

Simple feeders can cost between R$ 10 and R$ 70, depending on the material (plastic, stainless steel, ceramic) and structure.

There are also anti-voracity feeders, ideal for cats that eat quickly, with prices between R$ 35 and R$ 100.

Automatic feeders with microchip access control, recommended in specific situations, cost between R$ 150 and R$ 800.

For simple feeders, it is advisable to choose stainless steel or ceramic ones, avoiding plastic ones.

Drinking Fountains and Fountains

Drinking fountains range from R$ 10 to R$ 70, depending on material and design.

Cat water fountains, which offer fresh, flowing water, can cost between R$ 49 and over R$ 250.

Carrier

A carrier is essential for moving your cat safely, especially for vet visits.

Prices start around R$ 50 but can go up to R$ 300 depending on the design and sophistication, such as backpacks or bags.

Litter Boxes

It is important to have at least one litter box for your cat to do its business properly.

Uncovered litter trays cost around R$ 60, while covered litter boxes can range from R$ 130 to R$ 900, depending on the brand.

Cat Litter

Cat litter is an additional cost and usually costs around R$ 25 per kilo.

An 8 kg bag can cost between R$ 150 and R$ 200.

Scratcher

Scratching posts are essential items for cats, allowing them to stimulate their natural marking instincts and provide entertainment.

Prices vary widely, with small scratching posts costing from R$ 25 to R$ 100 and larger scratching posts (up to 2 meters) reaching R$ 900 or more.

It is recommended to choose a scratching post with different heights to stimulate the cat physically and mentally.

Brush

For cats with dense fur, a brush may be necessary to help maintain the coat.

Brushes typically cost from R$ 30 to R$ 100.

Toys

There are many types of cat toys, such as poles, tunnels, balls, and intelligence toys.

Prices range from R$ 6 to R$ 30 for simple toys, and can reach R$ 90 or even R$ 300 for more sophisticated options.

Making homemade toys from recycled materials can also be an economical way to keep your cat entertained.

Adopt a cat or buy one?

When deciding to share your life with a cat, a fundamental question arises: adopt a cat from a shelter or buy a purebred cat?

This choice goes far beyond aesthetic preferences and must be made consciously, taking into account not only the financial cost, but also the impact on the animals' well-being and your own.

Choosing to adopt a cat from a shelter or rescue organization is a noble choice. Adoption not only provides a home for an animal in need, but also helps reduce the number of abandoned animals. Adopted cats are usually already spayed, vaccinated, and often grooming trained.

However, if you want a cat of a specific breed or lineage, you may have to buy the cat.

How much does it cost to buy a cat?

Buying a purebred cat can be an option for those who want a specific breed with unique characteristics. However, this choice often involves significantly higher costs than adoption.

Purebred cats can range in price from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the breed and pedigree. Additionally, initial veterinary care, such as vaccinations and neutering, can represent additional expenses.

See a table with the values of cats in Brazil:

Note: breeds marked with a dash do not have defined values for sale in Brazil.

Remember that these values may change depending on the region you live in.

What is the monthly cost of owning a cat?

Whether you adopt or buy a cat, keeping a cat requires an ongoing investment. The monthly cost includes essentials like food, a litter box, toys, and healthcare.

Monthly expenses vary, but can be estimated at around R$ 50 to R$ 250, depending on the quality of the food and the cat's lifestyle.

How much does it cost to feed a cat?

Food is one of the most significant monthly expenses when raising a cat. The quality of the food is crucial to the feline's health.

Feeding a cat high-quality cat food can cost anywhere from R$ 50 to R$ 150 per month, while canned food can be a slightly more expensive addition.

How much does it cost to replace the sand?

Litter is essential for maintaining your cat's hygiene. The frequency of replacement depends on the number of cats and the size of the litter box.

A litter box needs new litter every 1-2 weeks, and an 8kg bag of litter costs on average R$150. Therefore, this cost can vary by up to R$100 per month depending on the number of cats.

For a small cat, you will have a cost of R$ 30 to R$ 50 per month for litter.

How much do hygiene products cost?

Keeping your cat clean and healthy involves purchasing hygiene products such as shampoo, brushes, and nail care products.

Cat-specific shampoos and conditioners vary in price, but can cost between R$$ 20 and R$$ 50 per bottle. Brushes range in price from R$$ 10 to R$$ 30, depending on the type. Nail care products, such as clippers or protectors, are affordable, typically around R$$ 15 to R$$ 30.

What is the minimum requirement to have a cat?

If you want to establish a basic infrastructure for your cat, you should consider purchasing a litter box, a food and water bowl, a food bowl, a water bowl, and at least a few toys.

This can total around R$ 100 to R$ 200 depending on the choice of products.

While these items are essential, remember that your cat's quality and well-being are priorities, and investing in high-quality products is important to ensure a healthy and happy life for your pet feline.

What if my cat gets sick? How much does a vet visit cost?

If your cat becomes ill or has any health problems, it is essential to seek veterinary care immediately.

The cost of a veterinary consultation can vary widely, depending on the location, the clinic, and the severity of the situation. Here is some general information about the cost of a veterinary consultation:

• Routine Consultation: A routine check-up, where a veterinarian performs a physical health exam and answers questions about your cat's well-being, typically ranges from R$ 100 to R$ 250, depending on the region and clinic.
• Emergency Consultation: If your cat is experiencing a medical emergency, such as poisoning, trauma, or severe respiratory problems, costs may be higher. Emergency visits can range from R$$ 200 to R$$ 500 or more, depending on the urgency and the need for immediate treatment.
• Additional Examinations and Treatment: In addition to the consultation, diagnostic tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds, and blood or urine tests may be required, which incur additional costs. The price of these tests may vary depending on the complexity and number of tests performed.
• Medications and Treatment: The cost of medications and treatments prescribed by your veterinarian depends on the diagnosis and severity of your cat's condition. Prices vary significantly, and your veterinarian will provide detailed information about the costs associated with treatment.
• Pet Health Insurance: Some people choose to purchase health insurance for their cats, which can help cover the costs of veterinary visits and treatments. Insurance plans vary in price and coverage, so it's important to shop around and choose a plan that fits your needs and budget.

Remember that prevention is the best way to avoid high veterinary expenses. Keeping your cat up to date with vaccinations, maintaining their hygiene, and providing a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of health problems.

However, when emergencies or unexpected health problems occur, investing in veterinary care is essential to ensure the well-being of your pet feline.

Cat neutering

Neutering cats is a common practice that offers several benefits for both cats and their owners.

Therefore, many veterinarians recommend neutering and, thus, in addition to ensuring the pet's quality of life, providing a better relationship with the owner.

See details about cat neutering:

Why neuter a cat? Is it necessary?

Spaying is a surgery that removes a cat's reproductive organs, making it sterile.

There are numerous reasons to neuter a cat, including controlling cat overpopulation, reducing unwanted behaviors (such as marking territory and aggression), preventing disease, and increasing life expectancy.

Spaying or neutering is highly recommended unless you intend to breed registered pedigree cats responsibly.

At what age can a cat be neutered?

The ideal age to neuter a cat varies, but many veterinarians recommend doing it between 4 and 6 months of age, before the onset of sexual maturity.

However, neutering can be performed on older cats as well.

How much does it cost to neuter a cat?

The cost of spaying a cat varies depending on the region, the veterinary clinic, and the cat's gender (females are generally more expensive due to the complexity of the procedure).

On average, the cost can range from R$100 to R$400 or more. It's best to contact local veterinary clinics for specific quotes.

Can I neuter my cat for free?

In some areas, animal rescue organizations, veterinary clinics, and government programs offer free or reduced-cost spay/neuter services to cats from low-income families or stray cats.

Check for free or subsidized spay/neuter programs in your area. This way, you can get free spay/neuter and take good care of your pet.

Spaying or neutering your cat is an important way to ensure your cat lives a healthy and happy life, and it also helps control the stray cat population.

Consult your local veterinarian for specific guidance on age and spay/neuter costs, and check for free or low-cost spay/neuter programs in your area to ensure your cat receives proper care.

And when adopting a cat, remember that you'll incur all these costs. So, get organized, find the right place for your cat, and you'll have a much happier life with your kitty by your side!

Did you like the tips? See more on our website!