How much does a cat cost per year?
Published on 6/23/2026
What is the total annual budget for a cat?
Adding up food, litter and veterinary care, the average annual cost of a cat is between €600 and €900. Food is the heaviest item, accounting alone for about 60% of this total. It's a long-term commitment to consider: a cat lives on average 15 years or more.
How much does veterinary care for a cat cost?
For a healthy adult cat, the routine veterinary budget is around €150 to €300 per year (annual check-up, vaccine boosters, antiparasitics). In case of illness, accident or surgery, the bill can climb to hundreds or even thousands of euros.
Price examples in Belgium: consultation €25 to €50, vaccine injection €40 to €70, microchip €40 to €60, spaying a female cat from around €120.
Price examples in France: consultation €30 to €50, kitten initial vaccination around €190 (several injections), neutering a male €60 to €100, spaying a female from €120.
Why does the first year cost more?
The first year concentrates the start-up care: identification (mandatory), initial vaccination (several injections), first dewormings and neutering. For a kitten's first care alone, expect around €300. After that, the budget stabilizes for a healthy cat.
How to manage your cat's budget?
The best lever remains prevention: a well-monitored cat costs less than one whose illness is detected late. Tracking expenses in an app like Petzo lets you visualize the real annual cost and anticipate major items. It's also the right way to judge whether pet insurance is worthwhile in your case: entry-level plans start around €10 per month.
Facts & figures
€600 to €900 — Average total annual cost of a cat (food included)
Source: Réassurez-moi
Frequently asked questions
Does a cat cost less than a dog?
Generally yes: a cat's annual budget (€600-900) is often lower than a dog's, partly because food and some care are less expensive. But it varies with breed, age and health.
Should you insure your cat?
It depends on your situation. Insurance can be worthwhile if your cat is young (lower premiums) or at risk. Tracking your vet expenses for a year helps you know whether insurance is worth it in your case.