New Cat Owner's Guide: Cost of Having a Cat in Singapore

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In our previous article, we talked about how to pick the most suitable cat for you and your family! While the prospect of getting a pet is exciting, pet ownership comes with plenty of costs. There are more expenses beyond the purchase price, as you will be responsible for taking care of your cat’s health, nutrition and entertainment. Let's break down the cost of owning a cat in Singapore!

Adoption vs Commercial Purchase

There will always be cats and kittens waiting in shelters for a second chance to find their forever home, and we would recommend potential owners to consider adoption. In Singapore, the adoption process for a cat is relatively simple and inexpensive. Adoption from The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) can cost as low as $25, and this fee covers vaccination, sterilization, deworming and microchipping.

Below is a more detailed price for adoption in SPCA:

Local Kittens (Under 6 months) — $100

Local Adults (6 months to under 7.5 years) — $80

Pedigrees and Crosses (Under 7.5 years) — $200

Seniors (Above 7.5 years OR stayed in SPCA for over a year OR Special Needs, require Long-Term Medical Care) — $25

***Fees cover vaccination, sterilization, deworming and microchipping with registration.***

Polypet is working with other animal welfare groups, shelters and organizations where you can also adopt a stray and abandoned animals:

Cat Welfare Society: https://www.catwelfare.org/
Lily Low’s Shelter: https://www.facebook.com/LilyLowShelter/
Voices For Animals: https://www.facebook.com/VFASIN/
Animal Lovers League: https://www.animalloversleague.com/
Cats of Marine Terrace: https://www.facebook.com/catsofmarineterrace/
Kitten Sanctuary Singapore: https://kittensanctuarysg.org/
Project LUNI: https://www.facebook.com/ProjectLuniCatsKittensRehomingStreetcare/
Mdm Wong’s Shelter: https://www.facebook.com/Mdmwongsshelterandfriends/

Alternatively, if you prefer to purchase your cat from the pet store or a breeder, it could cost anywhere from $300 to $5,000 depending on the breeder, pedigree, and country of importation. Unlike adopting, this estimation does not include the cost for vaccinations, sterilization etc. Make sure you seek out catteries that support and practice ethical breeding.

Here’s a breakdown of your expenses of having a cat:

Upfront Expenses

Sterilization: $200 to $300
Microchipping: around $70
Initial vaccinations: $50-$60 per shot
Cat Proofing Materials: $20 to $100
Litter Box: $15 and above
Cat Litter: $7 and above (depending on type, brand and quality)
Cat Food: as cheap as $0.80 for cat wet food (depending on type, quantity and brand)
Carrier, bowls, toys, grooming brush: depends on type, quality and brand
Nail Clipper: From $5
Scratching Board: $11 - $35

Optional Expenses

Cat Shampoo: from $8 (for the occasional bath)
Cage: Price varies depending on size and type
Water Fountain: $15 and above (Some cats may prefer to drink running water)

Recurring Expenses

Recurring Vaccinations: $30 to $60 for each shot
Cat Food & Treats: at least $0.80 (per 1 can of wet food) and above
Grooming: $50 to $80 (basic cat grooming session)
Medical and Dental: $50 to $300 per vet trip. Bill can exceed thousands in the event of surgery or hospitalization

**Do take note that this is just a rough estimate of owning a cat in Singapore. You will also need to take into account possible additional expenses.

Aside from the loveable personalities and cute faces, cats are a huge financial commitment. In our next article, we will be exploring what are the ways you can get your home ready for the arrival of a new furry friend.