How much does it cost to raise a cat in Australia?

In Australia, how much does it cost to raise a cat? Let’s break it down! In Australia, it seems like almost every friend has a cat or a dog.

Generally, apartment dwellers tend to have more cats, while some house residents opt for dogs. According to statistics, Australia has over 4.9 million pet cats, constituting 1/5 of the population!

For us, we have two Ragdoll, and dealing with their shedding can be a bit overwhelming. So let’s calculate how much it costs to raise a cat in Australia for a year. Check to see if you’re spending a similar amount!

How much does it cost to have a cat yearly?

Raising one cat costs around $1200-$1300 per year. This is a basic estimate, and individual expenses may vary.

Costs breakdown

Pet Insurance in Australia

The cost varies depending on the provider. We initially chose Greencross, it was too expensive at $45/month. We then switched to Bupa and Medibank, which cost around $200-$600 per year.

Grooming

Grooming services are quite expensive in Australia! Basic grooming for a long-haired cat like a Ragdoll can cost over $100. We usually wash my cats myself, with professional grooming maybe twice a year, totalling around $200.

Vet Expenses

This is another significant expense, comparable to or even more expensive than human healthcare! Regular check-ups can cost several tens of dollars, and there are at least two scheduled check-ups per year. Vaccinations for kittens are additional costs. Without insurance, veterinary expenses can be around $300 per year. If you have insurance, it varies.

Toys

We usually buy toys in bulk, making it quite affordable. Interactive toys and such are consumables. Occasionally, buying small toys might add up to $50 a year.

Cat Food

We bought cat food from the supermarket without understanding the differences. Later, we realised that cat food quality varies significantly. Depending on your budget, some people opt for cheaper options, while others choose more expensive ones. For one cat, cat food expenses can be around $400-$500 per year, depending on the brand.

Our two cats are picky eaters, one not liking canned food and the other avoiding fresh meat. However, treats like cat sticks and freeze-dried treats cost $200-$300 annually.