The Cost of "Free" Kittens
Often people will consider taking home a “free” cat from someone who has barn kittens or an unplanned litter. And while it’s important that all cats have a safe and loving home, it’s also vital to understand the costs associated with “free” kittens.
Cats from these situations (which will often come to rescues if not taken by the public), can come with a host of medical needs. This includes treatment for parasites (fleas, earmites, worms), providing all the necessary vaccines, microchipping, spaying or neutering, and providing any other essential vet care.
This can amount to a huge cost.
Cost of a Kitten from a Reputable Rescue
Adopting a kitten from a reputable rescue will be cost you less than if you had to pay for all of these services at a vet. Rescues are very fortunate to be partnered with vets that are able to work at a lower cost due to the volume we bring them. We also receive generous donations from the public which makes it possible to adopt cats out at a greatly reduced cost to the owner.
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AAR Adoption fee $350, includes:
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Spaying/neutering
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Microchip
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Age appropriate vaccines, including rabies
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Treatment against fleas and worms
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Any other vital vet care necessary
Cost of Vetting a 'free' Kitten
For basic vetting of an unfixed and unvaccinated kitten, you can expect to pay around $800-$1300+ depending on where your vet is located - and this is just for the first visit. They will need at least 2 more appointments to finish off their vaccines. This amount doesn’t include any additional vetting that may be required should the kitty have any health conditions like URIs, malnutrition, or urinary issues. These are common in cats coming from different backgrounds and can cost hundreds to thousands depending on the ailment. That cute stray you found may also be pregnant with 6+ kittens who will all need to be fed and then also fully vetted or else the cycle will continue.​
Looking to Adopt?
Check out our current cats available for adoption.
Needing to Surrender?
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