Speak to me about the expense and hassle of having a cat

[Opinionvoice]

My eight year old is desperate for a pet. He goes through phases of asking for this and is currently starting up a new pet campaign. I am starting to feel sorry for him and that I should get him one.

Thing is, money is tight. What sort of cost is it to have a cat? How much hassle? Will it wake me up at night?. Both my kids were terrible sleepers and I do not want to return to being woken at night by something small.

I have colleague whose cat has had a litter, so may be able to get a kitten or two from him (he is not a breeder so presume they will be free kittens to a good home).

Will I regret getting him a cat?

I have tried to fob him of with a rat but he says it will die too soon.

Pressed too soon, but definitely my favourite pet!! Would never be without one

I have 2, indoor cats due to a health condition.

£15pm per cat for vets subscription which gets all flea, worm and vaccinations covered plus 2 x check ups per year.
£98 pm wet food
£40 for a 2kg bag of biscuits to last approx 2 months.
£15 per week litter (little buggers only like Waitrose 😂)

So we're nearing £200pm for 2 cats.

They're not insured due to the health condition that would make it more money than it's worth so we keep a savings pot aside for any issues.

The cattery for a longer holiday is £21 per day. If we are away for a short trip, the cat sitter chargers £25 for a 1 hour visit so can cost us £100 for a weekend away.

Agree with all the points on costs, 20 year commitment, and their quirky behaviour! My girl is not a roamer and is quite straightforward to care for at the age of 4, but her stomach is sensitive and I’m aware that there may be issues when she reaches old age.

Consider whether you are on/near any busy roads, as this would potentially limit your ability to take in a rescue. Not to mention busy roads as a possible cause of heartache if you have a cat that wants to roam and you can’t cat-proof your garden.