After weighing the pros and cons of welcoming a furry friend into your home, the next big decision looms: should you adopt or shop?
There are many factors to consider when deciding whether to adopt or shop for a cat.
While it’s true that many people believe adopting an animal from a shelter is the morally right thing to do, it’s not always a straightforward decision.
Stress not, we here at Guidesify have narrowed down the various Pros and Cons of adopting and buying a cat from a shop to help you decide what you want to do.
Source: Pexels
The Rewards and Challenges of Rescuing a Cat
Rescuing an animal from a shelter can be a highly rewarding experience, knowing that you’re giving a loving home to an animal in need.
Many animals that aren’t adopted from shelters are unfortunately put to sleep, so by giving them a fresh start, you’re quite literally saving their life.🥹
Additionally, adopting an animal from a shelter doesn’t mean you’ll only find older cats – many shelters also have kittens available for adoption, so don’t shy away from adopting if you’re only looking for a fur baby.
This way, you can still experience the joys of raising a cat from a young age while also giving a loving home to a cat that needs it.
However, it’s important to note that rescuing a cat from a shelter can also come with its own set of challenges.
Many, if not all animals in shelters may have experienced trauma or abuse, which can lead to behavioural or mental health issues.
They may lack knowledge of basic house-training rules or struggle with anxiety or fear-based behaviours.
This means that rescuing a cat may require a lot more time, patience, and understanding to help them adjust to their new home.😓
The Pros and Cons of Shopping for a Cat
On the other hand, buying a cat from a breeder or pet store can provide a sense of security and predictability.
You’ll know exactly what breed of cat you’re getting, and many breeders will provide health guarantees and vaccinations.
Additionally, buying a cat from a breeder often means you can raise the cat from a young age, watching them grow and develop over time.
However, buying a cat from a pet store or a dubious breeder can also support the cruel and inhumane treatment of animals in kitten mills, where kittens are often not given the best upbringing.
These places rely on the “cuteness” of the kitten to ensure a sale, often tearing them away from their mothers too early.
Pet scammers are another concern that you should take seriously, pet scammers often advertise animals that they don’t even have so always see the pet in person before making a payment.🥸
Source: Pexels
Young vs Old: Animal Trait Edition
Another important consideration when deciding whether to adopt or shop for a cat is whether you prefer a young or old cat.
While kittens are undeniably adorable, they require a lot of time, which you may not have, and effort to train and socialise.
On the other hand, older cats may already be trained and more laid-back, but they may also come with existing health issues or behavioural problems.
Check Your Schedule
Before bringing a new cat into your home, it is essential to consider your lifestyle and schedule.
If you work long hours or have limited time to devote to your cat, you may want to consider an older, more independent cat that doesn’t require as much attention.
On the other hand, if you’re willing and able to devote time and energy to training and socialising a kitten, this could be a great option for you.
Source: Pexels
One-off Costs of Cat Ownership
In addition to the initial cost of adopting or buying a cat, there are several one-off costs to consider when bringing a new cat into your home.
These include sterilisation, vaccinations, microchipping, and cat-proofing your home.
Sterilisation (Spaying/Neutering): S$50 to S$350
Vaccinations: S$30 to S$80 per shot
Cat-proofing: S$50 – S$100 (DIY), S$400 – S$1,000 (Contractors)
Microchipping: S$50 to S$90
Recurring Costs of Cat Ownership
Finally, there are also several recurring costs to consider when owning a cat, including food, litter, medical expenses, and grooming.
These costs can add up over time, so it’s essential to factor them into your budget before bringing a new cat into your home.
Cat food: S$48 – S$100 for dry food (per month), S$81 – S$180 for wet food (per month)
Litter and litter box: S$30 – S$80 for a litter box, S$40 for litter (per month)
Cat furniture and toys: S$80 – S$100 for a cat tree, S$2.50 – S$8 for toys, S$30 for a scratch post
Medical expenses: S$50 – S$80 for yearly check-ups, S$200 – S$1,000 for medical procedures
Grooming: S$50 – S$80 (per month)
Miscellaneous costs: S$50 – S$100 for a pet communicator, S$55 for an AirTag and collar, S$24 – S$750 for pet insurance
Deciding whether to adopt or shop for a cat is a complex decision that requires careful consideration, while, both options have their pros and cons, the most important thing is to provide a loving and safe home for your new feline friend.
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