Costs of Having a Siberian Kitten

Before you take on the responsibility of a new kitten or cat, there are ongoing costs that you need to be aware of.

Upfront Costs

Immediate needs include a litter box and scoop, travel kennel, food and water bowls, toys, scratch pads/posts, combs and clippers, toothbrush ~ $200-400
The first year, vaccinations and spay or neuter: ~ $350-570 male, $650-1170 female

Ongoing Costs (Annual)

Food, about three pounds (dry kibble) per month with AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement - $150
Litter ~ $120 (pine pellets, we use these) - $300 (clumping litter). Buying bulk litter can save you 10-25%.
Vaccinations, flea/tick prevention and deworming ~ $270-520 (home treatment vs. veterinarian)
Toys and scratchers ~ $50-100
Full professional nail trimming, bathing and sanitary shave every two months ~ $900 (all of this can be done at home, scissors and clippers and shampoo about $35)
Insurance ~ $360 (optional)

Travel costs

Travel or boarding costs if you will be away from home for more than a few days ~ $15-30/night

There are so many things you can spend money on for your cat. You can install a pet door leading to a custom catio, create a trail of cat perches across your walls, place shelves so that your cat can look out the window, or have a cat tree or condo in every room of your house. No matter how much you plan to spoil your cat, it's good to know how much you will have to invest simply to cover the basics of cat care.