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🐱 Kitten Vet Costs: What Every New Cat Owner Needs to Know

Bringing a kitten home is an exciting time, but with that joy comes the responsibility of ensuring your new furry friend is healthy and well-cared for. A big part of that responsibility is understanding the veterinary costs associated with raising a kitten. From initial vaccinations to spaying or neutering, it’s crucial to budget for these expenses to avoid surprises down the road.

Key Takeaways: Quick Answers for Kitten Vet Costs 🐾

How much do initial vet visits cost? The first visit typically costs $50 to $100 , including a general health check and initial vaccines.
What vaccines do kittens need? Core vaccines like FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia) and rabies are essential and cost $25–$50 per vaccine.
When should I spay/neuter my kitten, and what does it cost? Most kittens are spayed/neutered at around 6 months, with costs ranging from $100 to $300 .
Are there ways to save on vet costs? Yes, wellness packages, pet insurance , and low-cost clinics can help reduce the overall expenses.

🩺 How Much Do Initial Vet Visits Cost for a Kitten?

Your kitten’s first vet visit is crucial to establishing their health baseline and identifying any potential issues early on. Here’s a breakdown of the costs you can expect:

💡 Pro Tip : Schedule your kitten’s first vet visit as soon as possible, ideally within the first week of bringing them home . Early detection of potential issues like parasites or respiratory infections can save you both money and stress down the line.

💉 What Vaccines Do Kittens Need, and How Much Do They Cost?

Vaccines are essential to protect your kitten from serious illnesses. Most kittens need their core vaccines in the first few months, followed by boosters later on. Here’s a breakdown of the typical vaccines and their costs:

💡 Pro Tip : Stick to your vet’s vaccine schedule to ensure your kitten is fully protected. Some vet clinics offer vaccine packages that can reduce the overall cost, so ask about bundle pricing.

🏥 How Much Does It Cost to Spay or Neuter a Kitten?

Spaying or neutering your kitten is an essential procedure, not only for preventing unwanted litters but also for reducing health risks like cancer and behavioral problems. The costs of these surgeries can vary depending on your location and whether you visit a regular vet clinic or a low-cost spay/neuter clinic.

💡 Pro Tip : Check for spay/neuter assistance programs in your area. Many communities offer low-cost or even free spay/neuter surgeries through local shelters, humane societies, or TNR (trap-neuter-return) programs for outdoor cats.

🛡️ Are There Additional Vet Costs for Kitten Health?

Beyond basic exams, vaccines, and surgeries, kittens may need extra care based on their health. It’s important to factor in these potential costs, especially if your kitten is adopted from a shelter or comes from an unknown background.

💡 Pro Tip : Preventive care, like flea/tick treatments and dental care, can save you from more significant health problems and expenses in the long run. Discuss with your vet about wellness plans that bundle preventive services at a lower cost.

💰 How Can I Save Money on Kitten Vet Costs?

Taking care of a kitten doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan wisely. Here are some cost-saving tips to help manage expenses without sacrificing your kitten’s health:

Pet Insurance : Investing in pet insurance early can save you thousands on unexpected medical bills. Some plans cover routine care, while others focus on accidents and illness. The average monthly cost for kitten insurance is about $15–$30 .
Wellness Packages : Many vet clinics offer wellness packages that bundle vaccines, spay/neuter surgery, and check-ups at a reduced rate. This can be a cost-effective option for comprehensive care during your kitten’s first year.
Low-Cost Clinics : Local animal shelters, humane societies, and veterinary schools often offer low-cost services for vaccinations, spay/neuter surgeries, and wellness exams. These clinics provide excellent care at a fraction of the cost.
Preventive Care : By maintaining your kitten’s health with regular vet visits and preventive treatments (like flea prevention), you can avoid costly emergency visits down the road.

💡 Pro Tip : Research local vet clinics and ask about their new kitten packages or first-time visit discounts . Some vets offer lower rates for initial visits, allowing you to save on those early expenses.

📊 Kitten Vet Costs at a Glance

🗝️ key takeaways: kitten vet costs.

Routine vet visits for kittens cost between $50 and $300 , depending on the services provided.
Core vaccinations, such as FVRCP and rabies , are essential and cost $25–$50 each.
Spaying/neutering typically costs between $100 and $300 , but low-cost options are available through clinics and shelters.
Pet insurance and wellness packages can help lower out-of-pocket expenses for both routine and emergency care.
Preventive care, like regular dental check-ups and flea prevention , is key to avoiding costly health issues later.

By understanding these expenses and planning ahead, you can ensure your kitten grows up healthy and happy without facing overwhelming vet bills. 😺💙

Q: Are there any hidden costs when taking a kitten to the vet for the first time?

Yes, while the initial vet visit for a kitten might seem straightforward, there can be additional costs that some new pet owners may not anticipate. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to watch for:

Diagnostic Tests : During your kitten’s first vet visit, your vet may recommend diagnostic tests like a fecal exam to check for intestinal parasites or a blood test to screen for feline leukemia (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). These tests are crucial for your kitten’s long-term health but may add $25–$100 to your initial bill, depending on the type of test.
Parasite Prevention : If your kitten has been living outdoors or in a shelter, there’s a good chance they might need parasite treatments . Fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms are common issues, and your vet may recommend deworming, flea/tick prevention, or even treatment for ear mites. These medications typically cost $10–$50 , but if a full treatment plan is required, it could raise the total vet visit cost.
Follow-Up Visits : Kittens require a series of vaccinations, which means you’ll likely need to schedule multiple follow-up appointments for booster shots. Each visit may have its own set of costs, especially if additional vaccines, parasite treatments, or wellness checks are included. Be prepared for these costs to range from $30 to $100 per visit, depending on the clinic.
Behavioral or Nutritional Consultations : Some veterinarians offer behavioral or nutritional advice as part of your kitten’s first visit. If your kitten is underweight, overweight, or showing signs of behavioral issues, your vet may suggest a special diet or recommend supplements. These consultations and products can add an extra $20–$50 to your bill, depending on your kitten’s specific needs.
Microchipping : While not necessarily hidden, microchipping your kitten is an important cost to consider. It’s a one-time fee of about $25–$50 , and most vets recommend doing it during your kitten’s spay or neuter surgery. If not done at the time of surgery, it may be performed at the first visit.

💡 Pro Tip : Ask for a detailed cost estimate before your kitten’s first appointment. Most vets will provide a breakdown of expected services, helping you avoid surprises when it comes to diagnostics, treatments, or optional services like microchipping.

Q: Do kittens really need dental care, and how much does it cost?

Yes, dental care is critical for kittens, even though they may not show signs of dental issues early on. Here’s why dental care is important and what you can expect in terms of costs:

Prevention of Future Issues : Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in adult cats, but it starts in kittenhood. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar, which can lead to gingivitis , tooth decay, and painful conditions like periodontal disease . Starting dental care early helps ensure your kitten’s teeth and gums remain healthy into adulthood.
Kitten-Specific Dental Concerns : Some kittens may experience dental issues as their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth come in. Retained baby teeth , or teeth that don’t fall out on their own, may require removal to prevent misalignment or crowding. This procedure can cost between $100 and $300 , depending on how many teeth need to be removed.
Routine Cleanings : While kittens may not need a professional cleaning during their first year, it’s important to establish a routine for brushing their teeth at home. A professional cleaning, which is recommended once they reach adulthood, typically costs $100–$300 . This involves anesthesia and a thorough cleaning of both the teeth and gumline to remove any plaque and tartar that may have built up.
Dental Products : Starting your kitten on an oral care routine at home can reduce the need for expensive treatments later on. There are kitten-safe toothbrushes and toothpastes available for around $10–$20 , as well as dental treats that help keep teeth clean while satisfying their chewing instincts. Over time, these small investments will save you from the high cost of treating dental diseases.

💡 Pro Tip : Get your kitten used to having their mouth handled early by gently brushing their teeth a few times a week. This simple habit can save you money on dental issues later and keep your kitten’s mouth healthy.

Q: What happens if I can’t afford a vet visit for my kitten? Are there options for financial assistance?

If you’re concerned about vet costs, there are several options available to ensure your kitten receives the care they need, even if your budget is tight:

Low-Cost Clinics : Many communities have low-cost veterinary clinics or nonprofits that offer affordable services, especially for vaccinations, spay/neuter surgeries, and wellness checks. Organizations like The Humane Society or ASPCA often run these clinics or partner with local vets to provide subsidized care. Some clinics even offer sliding scale fees based on your income.
Payment Plans : Many veterinary practices offer payment plans through third-party companies like CareCredit or Scratchpay , allowing you to spread out the cost of vet care over several months. These plans typically offer low or no-interest financing, making it easier to manage larger bills.
Pet Insurance : While pet insurance doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions, enrolling your kitten early can help cover routine and emergency care down the line. Some plans even offer wellness add-ons to cover preventive care like vaccinations and dental cleanings. Average monthly premiums for kittens range from $15 to $30 , depending on the level of coverage.
Veterinary Assistance Programs : There are several financial assistance programs available for pet owners facing unexpected vet bills. Organizations like RedRover Relief or The Pet Fund provide grants to pet owners who can’t afford critical care. While these programs often focus on emergencies, some may help cover routine vet visits if your financial situation qualifies.
Crowdfunding : In urgent situations, many pet owners turn to crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe or Waggle to raise money for their kitten’s medical care. These platforms allow friends, family, and even strangers to contribute to your kitten’s health needs, helping to cover unexpected expenses.

💡 Pro Tip : Research local veterinary schools , which often offer low-cost care performed by students under supervision. This is a great way to access quality veterinary services at a lower price.

Q: How can I keep my kitten’s vet costs low in the long run?

Keeping your kitten healthy is the best way to manage vet costs over time. Here are a few key strategies to minimize long-term veterinary expenses :

Preventive Care Is Key : The most effective way to avoid expensive treatments is through preventive care . Stick to regular vet visits for wellness exams, keep your kitten up to date on vaccines, and follow through with flea, tick, and parasite prevention . These small expenses can prevent costly illnesses and emergency visits later on.
Spay/Neuter Early : Spaying or neutering your kitten not only prevents unwanted litters but also reduces the risk of certain cancers and behavioral problems. Early spaying/neutering can save you from significant health-related costs down the road. If cost is a concern, look for low-cost spay/neuter programs in your area.
Home Dental Care : Establish a dental care routine early to avoid costly extractions or periodontal treatments as your kitten grows. Brushing your kitten’s teeth regularly and providing dental treats can make a big difference in their overall health and reduce future vet bills.
Monitor Diet and Weight : A healthy, well-balanced diet is crucial to preventing obesity and related health issues like diabetes or arthritis. Feeding your kitten high-quality food that meets their nutritional needs can prevent these conditions, which often lead to expensive treatments in the long term.
Regular Exercise and Stimulation : Keeping your kitten active and mentally stimulated helps maintain their physical and emotional health . A well-exercised kitten is less likely to develop behavioral problems, which can sometimes result in costly vet visits for injuries or stress-related conditions.

💡 Pro Tip : Look for vet clinics that offer wellness plans —these typically bundle services like vaccines, deworming, and routine check-ups at a reduced cost, helping you spread out expenses and save money on essential care.

Q: What should I do if my kitten seems healthy—do they still need regular vet visits?

Yes, even if your kitten seems perfectly healthy, regular vet visits are essential to ensure their long-term well-being. Here’s why those routine check-ups are so important, even if your kitten shows no signs of illness:

Early Detection of Hidden Issues : Many health conditions in kittens, such as parasites, dental disease , or even congenital problems, might not show visible symptoms in the early stages. A regular vet check-up allows for the early detection of any underlying issues that may not be immediately obvious to you. The sooner these are caught, the easier (and often less expensive) they are to treat.
Vaccination Schedule : During the first few months of life, your kitten needs a series of core vaccines to protect against diseases like feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia (FVRCP), as well as rabies. Missing or delaying these vaccines can leave your kitten vulnerable to serious illnesses, many of which are preventable with timely vaccinations.
Deworming and Parasite Control : Even if your kitten appears healthy, they can harbor intestinal parasites like roundworms or hookworms, which can lead to malnutrition and other health issues. Regular deworming and fecal tests are vital for keeping your kitten free from parasites. Routine vet visits also ensure your kitten stays up to date on flea and tick prevention , as these pests can cause significant discomfort and even transmit diseases.
Tracking Growth and Development : Kittens grow rapidly, and it’s important that their development stays on track. Regular vet visits allow your vet to monitor your kitten’s weight, growth patterns, and overall physical development . If there are any signs of malnutrition or developmental delays, your vet can recommend changes to diet, supplementation, or other interventions to ensure your kitten thrives.
Dental Care and Hygiene : Early dental care is often overlooked, but it’s crucial to your kitten’s health. Kittens are prone to dental issues as they lose their baby teeth and adult teeth come in. Regular check-ups allow your vet to inspect your kitten’s teeth and gums , providing guidance on dental hygiene and addressing any early signs of dental disease before they worsen.

💡 Pro Tip : A healthy-looking kitten still needs routine veterinary care to prevent potential issues. Think of regular vet visits as an investment in your kitten’s future health, helping you avoid more significant and costly problems down the road.

Q: How do I know if my kitten needs emergency veterinary care, and how much will it cost?

Recognizing when your kitten needs emergency veterinary care is crucial, as quick intervention can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to common signs of an emergency and what you can expect in terms of costs:

Difficulty Breathing : If your kitten is panting, wheezing, or struggling to breathe , this is an immediate emergency. Respiratory distress can be caused by infections, allergies, or even an obstruction in the airway, and it requires urgent medical attention . Don’t wait—get to an emergency vet right away.
Severe Vomiting or Diarrhea : Occasional vomiting or soft stool might not be cause for alarm, but if your kitten is experiencing severe, repeated vomiting or diarrhea , this could indicate a serious problem like intestinal blockage, poisoning, or infection . Kittens are especially vulnerable to dehydration, so don’t hesitate to seek emergency care if these symptoms persist for more than a few hours.
Lethargy or Unresponsiveness : Kittens are naturally curious and playful, so if your kitten suddenly becomes extremely lethargic, unresponsive , or shows no interest in food or water, this is a red flag. These signs could indicate hypoglycemia, infection, or exposure to toxins , all of which require immediate care.
Injury or Trauma : If your kitten has been hit by a car, suffered a fall, or experienced any physical trauma , even if they seem fine at first glance, they could have internal injuries that aren’t immediately apparent. A vet should evaluate your kitten for any broken bones, internal bleeding, or organ damage.
Seizures or Sudden Behavioral Changes : If your kitten experiences seizures (uncontrollable shaking, twitching, or convulsing) or suddenly displays aggressive or disoriented behavior, it’s essential to get them to the vet. These symptoms could be linked to neurological issues, poisoning , or infections like feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) .

💡 Pro Tip : Emergency vet visits typically cost $200 to $500 just for the initial exam, with treatment costs increasing based on the severity of the condition. If your kitten displays any of these symptoms, it’s better to be safe than sorry—seek veterinary attention right away.

Q: What are the long-term vet costs I should be prepared for as my kitten grows?

As your kitten matures, vet costs will evolve, shifting from frequent kitten vaccines and check-ups to long-term wellness and preventive care. Here’s what you can expect:

Annual Wellness Exams : Once your kitten reaches adulthood, annual check-ups become essential for monitoring their overall health. These exams typically cost $50 to $100 and include a full physical, weight check, and basic diagnostics. During these visits, your vet will assess your cat’s diet, behavior, and any signs of emerging health problems, like dental disease or weight issues.
Vaccination Boosters : After your kitten completes their initial vaccine series, they’ll need annual or tri-annual booster shots to maintain immunity against common feline diseases. These boosters include FVRCP, FeLV (for outdoor cats), and rabies . The cost of booster vaccinations is typically $20 to $50 per vaccine , depending on your vet’s pricing.
Dental Cleanings : As your kitten grows into adulthood, dental disease becomes a more prominent concern. Regular dental cleanings, usually once a year, are crucial for preventing gingivitis, plaque buildup, and tooth decay . A professional cleaning can cost between $100 and $300 , depending on whether anesthesia is needed.
Spay/Neuter Follow-Up Care : After your kitten has been spayed or neutered, post-surgical care is usually minimal, but there may be occasional follow-up visits to ensure their recovery was smooth. You might also need to address any behavioral changes related to the procedure, though these are generally minor and not costly.
Weight Management and Diet : Adult cats are prone to weight gain if they aren’t fed a balanced diet or provided with enough exercise. Nutritional consultations and adjustments to your cat’s diet can help prevent obesity and the related costs of treating conditions like diabetes or joint problems . Special diets for weight control or health issues can range from $30 to $80 per month .

💡 Pro Tip : Investing in pet insurance early on can help cover many of these long-term costs, especially if your cat develops chronic health conditions later in life. Wellness plans that include annual exams, dental care, and vaccinations can offer significant savings on routine care.

Q: Should I get pet insurance for my kitten, and what will it cover?

Yes, pet insurance can be a valuable investment for your kitten, especially as they grow older and face a range of potential health issues. Here’s what you need to know about pet insurance and what it typically covers:

Accident and Illness Coverage : Most basic pet insurance plans cover accidents and illnesses , including unexpected injuries, surgeries, infections, and chronic conditions like diabetes or kidney disease. If your kitten breaks a leg, develops a serious illness, or needs surgery, insurance can cover a large portion of the $1,000 to $5,000 costs that these treatments might require.
Wellness Add-Ons : While basic insurance plans don’t cover routine care, some providers offer wellness add-ons that cover vaccinations, spaying/neutering, dental cleanings, and routine check-ups . These plans are ideal if you want to ensure your kitten’s preventive care is covered and avoid paying out of pocket for annual exams and vaccines.
Chronic Conditions : If your kitten develops a chronic health condition later in life, like hyperthyroidism, heart disease , or arthritis , pet insurance can help cover the costs of ongoing treatments, medications, and even surgeries. Chronic conditions can be costly to manage, and insurance can offset some of these long-term expenses.
Exclusions and Waiting Periods : Keep in mind that pet insurance typically doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions , so it’s important to enroll your kitten early to ensure coverage. Most plans also have waiting periods , often around 14–30 days , during which time any illnesses or accidents that occur won’t be covered.

💡 Pro Tip : When shopping for pet insurance, compare reimbursement rates, deductibles, and coverage limits to find a plan that fits your needs. Look for providers that offer both accident/illness coverage and wellness packages if you want comprehensive care for your kitten.

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Average Cost of a Vet Visit for Cats in 2024: How Much You Can Expect To Pay

Vet doctor holds cat in his arms and talking to the owner

Image Credit: H_Ko, Shutterstock

Last Updated on October 3, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

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Cats require our love, care, an enriched environment to express their natural behaviors, and high-quality food to thrive. They also need to see the veterinarian regularly to ensure their health stays strong throughout their life. It is easy to tabulate how much food, bedding, and toys will cost you as time goes on. But how much will it cost to get your cat preventative veterinary care or any treatment they may require in the coming years? Here is everything you need to know about the average cost of a vet visit for cats this year, which can be somewhere between $40 and $150 during regular working hours, depending on the reason for the visit. This does not include any extra procedures or a visit outside of normal working hours, and they will be more costly than the cost of a general checkup.

How Much Is a Vet Visit for a Cat?

There is no way to know precisely how much a visit to the vet with your cat will cost because it depends on many things, including the reason for the visit, the types of tests that may be done, and how long the visit takes overall. It also depends on where you live and what type of animal care facility you decide to visit.

A basic checkup, sometimes referred to as a wellness exam, typically consists of an oral “interview,” where your vet will ask questions about things like how well your cat is eating and drinking, the amount of exercise that they get daily, their litter box habits, whether they have been in any catfights or accidents recently, and their overall behavior, alongside any particular concerns.

After the question-and-answer period, your vet will complete a physical examination of your cat, examining their mouth and teeth, having a look at their eyes and ears, and evaluating their whole body. They will also listen to their heart and lungs, feel their abdomen and limbs for any abnormalities, record their weight, and take their temperature.

A basic checkup can cost anywhere between $40 and $150, depending on where you live. You may need to see a veterinarian for reasons other than just a checkup, in which case, the cost of seeing the veterinarian may differ significantly. Here is an approximate chart of a few service examples and the average cost per region.

Closeup veterinarian is making a check up of a adult maine coon cat with stethoscope in vet clinic

Average Vet Costs by Region

Source: https://www.banfield.com/Services/price-estimator

Please note that prices may vary significantly depending on the location of the veterinary clinic, state and city, the required and recommended additional tests and procedures, animals’ weight, and many other factors. This pricing list is meant only as a reference to average routine costs during regular working hours and does not include emergencies.

Additional Costs

In addition to the basic service options, we can address other specific services, so you have a ballpark idea of how much each may cost. For a more accurate estimate, it’s always best to contact your veterinarian directly.

Tooth Extractions

One or more of your cat’s teeth may need to be extracted due to problems such as dental disease , periodontitis, tooth resorption, stomatitis, or other issues.

The cost of tooth extraction for cats can be anywhere from $250 to more than $1,000, depending on the number of extractions, length of procedures, pre-anesthetic blood testing, use of dental x-rays, and the types of medications and equipment used during the procedure.

Senior Screening

Cats over the age of 10 should get more frequent health screenings. This type of examination is more comprehensive than a wellness checkup and typically includes bloodwork, a urinalysis, and, if necessary, X-rays or an ultrasound if a specific problem is suspected. Each senior checkup could cost between $100 and $800, depending on the tests and investigations you choose to include in your cat’s health package.

Veterinarian checks teeth to a big maine coon cat at vet clinic

Allergy Treatments

Allergy treatments involve more than just prescribing medication. Your veterinarian will have to test your cat for allergies to figure out what is causing their allergic reactions. They may also refer your cat to a veterinary dermatologist. Once a cause is determined, they can determine the best course of action to help your cat avoid or fight off the cause of their allergies. Therefore, you can expect allergy treatments for your cat to cost between $ 500 and $2,000, depending on the extent of investigations and tests.

Deworming and Flea Treatment

Cats can pick up various intestinal and external parasites, especially if they spend any of their time outdoors or hunt. Unfortunately, multiple parasites could find a home in or on your cat’s body. These include roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms, fleas, ear mites, and ticks, amongst others.

Luckily, your cat can be treated for parasites at the vet’s office. Your vet may recommend a fecal test to determine exactly what type of worms your cat is infested with, which can cost between $50 and $150. Medication to treat the worms may cost anywhere from $25 to $150, depending on the product, as some may be effective for longer.

If your cat requires a routine surgery, such as neutering or spaying, or a non-routine procedure, such as wound suturing, lump biopsy, or other procedure, the cost is very variable and may go anywhere from $250 to even higher than $1,000, depending on additional pre-anesthetic and laboratory tests such as blood sampling. The average cost of less invasive or time-consuming non-routine surgeries, such as lump removals and stitch-ups, may be from about $500 to more than $1,400. These are just a few examples of how much a vet visit for a cat without insurance could cost you.

What to Expect Financially From an Emergency Vet Visit

You never know when you might need to take your cat in for an emergency visit, whether because they get injured, become ill, or ingest something they should not. The cost of just walking in the door to see a vet due to an emergency depends if it’s before or after midnight or during the weekend and public holidays, and may cost between $100 and $500. However, the costs do not stop there. Depending on the situation, there may be more charges relating to the following services.

Diagnostics

Diagnostic tests can include blood work ($75–$200), an X-ray ($150–$450), and an ultrasound ($300–$600). Overall, you could be looking at anywhere from $75 to $1,000 for diagnostics alone. If your cat requires more advanced imaging, such as a CT or an MRI, it can be even more expensive.

Hospitalization

Twenty-four hours of hospitalization for your cat could cost anywhere from $600 to over $1,000, depending on the treatments or services rendered during that time. If your cat needs to stay hospitalized for longer, there is often a reduction in fees in those circumstances.

Being hit by a vehicle, falling from a balcony, or ingesting a foreign body are just a few reasons your cat may need emergency surgery. While there is no way to know exactly how much surgery will cost until you know the cause and extent of the condition, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,000.

If you have any concerns or curiosities about your cat or their health, we recommend you contact your vet directly.

If you need to speak with a vet but can’t get to one, head over to PangoVet . It’s an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which vet bills do pet insurance companies cover.

Many companies sell pet insurance to help cover the costs of veterinarian services they receive throughout their life. Most pet insurance companies cover a percentage of the bill for emergency , accident, and sudden illness vet services in exchange for you paying them a monthly premium. For an extra monthly fee, some insurance companies may offer to cover some of the costs of preventative care minus a deductible, but that is less common.

Most companies offer reimbursement plans, which means that they will pay you back after you pay for the veterinarian services yourself. However, depending on the insurance company and the vet you are working with, you may be able to score a plan that does not require you to pay for services out of pocket.

Pet Insurance Owner Puppy Safety Policy Animal Concept

How Often Should I Take My Cat to the Vet?

Kittens should be seen by a vet several times in the first 6 months of their lives for a set of primary vaccinations, regular weighing, adequate deworming and flea treatments, and for planning their neutering or spaying. Afterward, adult cats should see a veterinarian once a year for a wellness checkup and any required vaccinations. Flea and deworming treatments can be done at home and require nothing more than a quick stop to pick medications up from the vet when necessary (usually monthly for regular flea treatments).

Once your cat reaches the age of 10, your veterinarian may suggest that you come in for wellness checkups twice a year, as changes in a senior cat’s health can happen quickly.

Now that we’ve given you the average cost of a vet visit for your cat, it’s obvious that veterinarian care can vary greatly, but it is necessary. Your cat cannot experience a happy, healthy, high-quality life without regular checkups, preventative healthcare, and recommended vaccinations. We hope that our guide helps prepare you for any veterinarian visits that you make with your cat in the future.

Also see: What’s the Price of Cat Urinary Treatment?
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Featured Image Credit: H_Ko, Shutterstock

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About the Author

Rachael Gerkensmeyer

Rachael has been a freelance writer since 2000, in which time she has had an opportunity to research and write about many different topics while working to master the art of fusing high-quality content with effective content marketing strategies. She is an artist at heart and loves to read, paint, and make jewelry in her spare time. As a vegan, Rachael is obsessed with helping animals in need both in her community and anywhere in the world where she feels she can make a difference. Animals also happen to be her favorite topic to write about! She lives off the grid in Hawaii with her husband, her garden, and her rescue animals including 5 dogs, a cat, a goat, and dozens of chickens.

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What to Expect With Your Kitten's First Vet Visit

When bringing home a newly adopted kitten, it is imperative that you get it checked out by a veterinarian as soon as possible. This is not only for your kitten's own health, but to also ensure that it doesn't share any serious communicable diseases. Ideally, your kitten would be examined prior to even bringing it home with you, but you should try to get it seen by a vet within 48 hours if the kitten appears to be healthy. If the kitten is showing any symptoms of an illness, such as watery eyes, sneezing , difficulty breathing, or failure to eat, it should be seen immediately. Regardless of whether or not you think your kitten is healthy though, you should keep your kitten away from other cats until a veterinarian gives your kitten the go-ahead for socializing.

What Does a Physical Exam Consist Of?

Just like an adult cat receives , your veterinarian will perform a thorough hands-on physical examination of your kitten in order to find physical abnormalities. This examination includes:

Checking inside your kitten's mouth : Baby teeth , the tongue, and the roof of the mouth will especially be examined.
Taking your kitten's temperature : A normal rectal temperature of a cat is about 99 F to 102 F. If your kitten's temperature is too high or too low, it may be an indication of a problem.
Palpating your kitten's abdomen : Your vet will gently feel your kitten's belly for anything abnormal.
Listening to your kitten's heart and lungs: A cat should have a normal rhythm to their heartbeat with no murmurs. The lungs should be clear with only air flowing through them.
Testing your kitten's muscles and joints for mobility : Your vet will feel your kitten's legs, especially their knees, to make sure everything is the way it should be. They may watch your kitten walk around to make sure they have a normal gait.
Checking your kitten's eyes : An ophthalmoscope may be used to examine your kitten's eyes. Your vet will also look for signs of illness including watery and crusty eyes.
Checking your kitten's ears for mites : Heavy, black debris in the ears is a good sign that a kitten has ear mites . Ear mites are very common in kittens so your vet may swab a sample from inside the ear to check for microscopic mites.
Combing your kitten's fur for evidence of fleas : Fleas love cats of all ages. A flea comb may be used to look for fleas.

What Lab Tests Will Your Kitten Need?

Fecal analysis : You will probably be asked to bring a fecal sample from your kitten with you to your vet. The veterinary team will run tests using the fecal sample to check for parasites like intestinal worms, giardia, and other potential concerns. Your vet may administer a de-worming medication to your kitten at each visit since not all intestinal parasites show up on fecal tests and a large percentage of kittens have them. Many parasites can be passed on to people, so it is important to eliminate them from your kitten.
Blood tests : The American Association of Feline Practitioners recommends testing for FeLV and FIV on all newly-adopted cats, regardless of age, and whether or not there are other cats in their new home. If your kitten is younger than nine weeks of age, your veterinarian may want to wait until it is at least nine weeks old before testing for FeLV and FIV since kittens less than nine weeks of age are more likely to show a false result. If other cats are in the home with your young kitten, it is recommended to keep them isolated until they have tested negative for FeLV and FIV in case your new kitten has a transmissible disease.

Discuss Vaccinations

Most states require cats to receive at least a rabies vaccine, which is not done until your kitten is a little older. You should also discuss other vaccines, such as rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia with your veterinarian. Vaccines need to be given at certain ages and in specific intervals to be effective.

Schedule Your Kitten to be Spayed or Neutered

Unless this was done prior to your kitten's adoption, you'll need to make an appointment for this surgery. Spaying and neutering are usually done around five to six months of age but some veterinarians will recommend it be done earlier or later.