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The domestic cat belongs to the family Felidae, one of the oldest mammalian families, that includes wild cats such as lions, tigers, leopards, etc and there are 38 known species of felines in the world today.

Cats are hunting carnivores with strong predatory instincts, powerful jaws with long, sharp teeth and claws that draw back into their paws when not in use. Cats have exceptionally acute hearing, and eyes adapted for vision in dim light allowing them to easily hunt just before dawn and after dusk.

Domestic cats come in a variety of shapes, sizes and coats and over the years have been selectively bred to establish distinct cat breeds. The domestic cat is agile, intelligent, friendly and affectionate. The cat is both sociable and independent – as happy with its own company as with the company of other cats or humans.

Below is an approximate guide to the costs of owning and keeping a cat.

Equipment

When buying a cat or kitten it will be necessary to purchase equipment such as cat bed, toys, litter tray, collar, etc and this can cost up to £200.

Feed

The cost of food will vary according to whether a complete dry cat food or tinned meat and biscuits is fed but cat food will cost approximately £15-£20 per month.

Cat Litter

The amount of cat litter needed will vary depending on how much of the time the cat spends indoors but will cost approximately £5-£10 a month.

Worming

Cats require routine worming treatments and this can cost £10-£15 every 3 months.

Flea Treatment

Cats require regular flea treatments and this can cost around £5 per month.

Vets Fees And Insurance

A young kitten needs to be vaccinated against cat flu, entiritis and feline leukaemia and these vaccinations can cost around £60-£80 initially and then the cat will require annual boosters at a cost of £40-£50.

Insurance to cover vets fees in the event of illness and injury suffered by the cat can cost £6-£15 per month.

Neutering

Spaying or neutering a cat can cost £40-£50.

Microchipping

Microchipping a cat can cost £15-£20.

Extras

Although the main regular costs of keeping a cat are listed above there are always unexpected costs that occur. In addition it is often necessary to purchase medical products for minor cuts, shampoos, replace equipment, etc. All such costs can mount up over a year. Therefore it is always best to factor in an additional cost of £200-£500 per annum for extras when working out whether keeping a cat can be afforded.