How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Cat?
Adopting a cat usually costs less than adopting a dog, with fees ranging from free to a few hundred dollars depending on the organization, the cat's age and promotions. Reduced-fee events such as BISSELL Pet Foundation's Empty the Shelters have priced cats at $50, and adult and senior cats are often discounted. Fees typically include spay or neuter, vaccines, FeLV/FIV testing and often a microchip.
Cats are the most common animals in US shelters: about 3 million cats entered shelters and rescues in 2025, according to ASPCA figures. Many shelters keep cat adoption fees low, especially during summer "kitten season."
Typical cat adoption fees
| Option | Typical fee |
|---|---|
| Shelters and rescues | Free to a few hundred dollars (Petfinder) |
| Kittens | Often higher than adult cats |
| Adult and senior cats | Often reduced; sometimes waived |
| BISSELL Empty the Shelters event (May 2026) | $50 per cat at participating shelters |
| Adoption centers in pet stores | Set by the partner shelter or rescue |
Rover's 2025 survey found the cost of adopting a cat fell 16% from the previous year.
What a cat adoption fee includes
Typically:
- Veterinary exam
- Spay or neuter surgery
- Core vaccines (FVRCP; rabies if old enough)
- FeLV/FIV test (Petfinder values it at $30–$50)
- Deworming and flea treatment
- Microchip at many shelters
Petfinder estimates the total value of these services at roughly $425 to $880 if paid separately.
Adopting a cat at PetSmart or Petco
Adoption centers inside pet stores are run with local shelter and rescue partners. PetSmart Charities says its partners set the adoption fee and may require a background check or home visit. See adopting at PetSmart or Petco.
When to find the lowest fees
- June: the ASPCA marks June as Adopt a Shelter Cat Month, the height of kitten season, when shelters are full.
- Reduced-fee events: BISSELL Pet Foundation's Empty the Shelters, holiday promotions and "clear the shelters" campaigns.
- Adult and senior cats: often discounted year-round.
See free adoption events.
Budget for the rest of the first year
Rover estimated the cost of bringing home a new cat in 2025 at $750 to $2,715, including supplies and initial care. See how much cat food costs and cat vet visit costs.
Find animal shelters near you.
Sources
Find animal shelters & rescues near you
Thinking about adopting a dog or cat, or need to surrender or report a lost pet? Compare local animal shelters and rescue groups by Google rating, reviews and opening hours below.
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This article is general information for pet owners, not veterinary, legal or financial advice. Prices vary by city and clinic; always ask your veterinarian or provider about your own pet.
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