Saving Money While Still Caring For Your Cat -Eight Top Tips
Cat rescue shelters are at bursting point. Most are full and others can only take the most severely neglected cats. If you are struggling to cope with the cost of food or healthcare, before you think of rehoming your cat, please read our money saving suggestions.
1. Switch food
Cat food can be expensive, so look for a cheaper food that is still high welfare and meets your cat's needs. Look for a food marked ‘Complete’ as by law this has to meet all your cats’ requirements. You could mix your regular food with a cheaper brand to make it stretch further. Dry food goes much further than wet food, even though the upfront cost can be higher. You can always add water to dry food. Please change food gradually and see if your cat can tolerate it before switching completely and check with your vet if you are worried.
2. Switch litter
Shop around to find the cheapest litter your cat is comfortable using. Remember buying in bulk on-line can be cheaper, as can discount stores which may not be known for pet supplies.
3. Prevention pays
Preventing problems is cheaper and easier than treating them once they arrive. Neutering can prevent behaviour problems, fighting, wandering and reduce cancer risks in cats. Contact your local RSPCA branch or Cats Protection to see if you are eligible for a free or reduced cost neutering voucher.
Keep on top of preventative care like worming and flea treatments which can become costly problems if not addressed. Some vets and retailers offer a paid monthly service for wormer, tick and flea treatment too which helps to spread the cost.
4. Buy prescriptions online
Did you know it can be cheaper to buy medication online? Your vet can write you a prescription for a small fee and you can order medication online which is usually much cheaper than buying direct from the vet.
5. Payment plans
Some vets offer payment plans through a credit company if you need help spreading the cost. Not every vet can offer this, but it's worth asking if this is an option. Paying off small amounts every week or month might be easier to manage than a large upfront payment.
6. Change your vet
Vet fees vary based on location, which equipment and tests are available, the vet's experience and speciality. Check if you can use the PDSA as your vet.
7. Shop around for insurance
Pet insurance premiums can go up and up, so it's always worth shopping around to see if you can get a suitable level of cover with another provider - but beware policies with lots of limitations and remember pre-existing conditions won't be covered. Insurance will also give you peace of mind that any surprise vet bills will be covered.
8. Get crafty
Pet treats and new toys can soon add up so why not get crafty and have a go at making your own at home? Enrichment is so important for your cat’s wellbeing.