They grow up so fast—kittens that are! And in honor of National Kitten Day, we have some tips on how to save money on your new cat. A pet is an investment and the cost of a pet should be taken seriously (especially if you’re paying off debt). By taking the proper steps, you can not only save money but keep your new cat in proper health.
Take these steps to avoid more debt with a new cat.
Save Money on Your New Cat
Cut out bargain food.
Make sure to buy your new cat good quality cat food. You may be looking to cut back on your spending to succeed in debt management. However, skimping on food is not the way to go. Generic cat food brands use cheaper grains to provide protein. As carnivores, cats cannot handle significant quantities of grains, which can cause weight gain and allergic reactions. Consider using the recommended brands by your veterinarian. Vets usually recommend a combination of both wet and dry cat food. You can even find recipes to make your own cat food. A new kitten may often be hungry, but remember to practice portion control.
Change your cat litter.
It’s important to clean out your cat’s litter box. Purchase a clumping, odor-fighting litter. Clumping litter lasts longer and controls odors better than non-clumping, generic-smelling litter. That way you don’t have to maintain your cat litter as much.
Restrict outdoor activity.
Although having an indoor cat keeps him or her relatively safe, it may lead to weight gain and inactivity if your cat likes to eat a lot. By allowing your cat to go outside in moderate intervals, they can get the exercise they need while enjoying nature. There are hazards to being outside for long periods of time, such as flea outbreaks, hunting birds and rodents, fighting with other animals, falling from trees, and death by vehicle accidents. That’s why you need to monitor your cat’s outdoor activity.
Save on vet care.
Preventive medicine and vaccines will be key to your cat’s health and longevity. Check animal shelters and vet clinics for discounts on routine care. For instance, Petco provides affordable veterinary services for your new cat.
Groom your cat.
Provide basic grooming yourself if you can. Bathe, brush, trim your cat’s claws, and brush your cat’s teeth routinely. Going to the vet or groomer can be expensive, so avoid getting into credit debt by doing it at home.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
