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8 Important Considerations Before Adopting a Cat, According to a Vet

By Alexandra Jump Parade Pets

Updated May 29, 2026 5:53 AM

arena photography — Mister Big / Getty Images

Bringing home a cat can feel surprisingly easy at first. Compared to dogs, cats are often seen as lower-maintenance pets that happily nap in sunny windows, quietly entertain themselves and require less day-to-day attention. Terrible weather outside? That's no problem for cat parents. Thanks to a litter box, cats don't require long walks outside in rain, snow and other inclement weather like dogs do. Need to work late? It's no sweat for cat parents. You don't have to worry about getting someone to take your cat outside for a potty break or exercise.

Given their different demeanor and needs from dogs, cats may seem like independent animals, but veterinarians say many first-time cat owners underestimate the long-term responsibility that comes with adopting one. From veterinary expenses and behavioral adjustments to preparing your home and budgeting for pet supplies, there are some important factors future cat owners should think through before making a commitment to a new furry cat friend.

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Organizations such as the American Humane Society stress the importance of preparing your household, choosing the right personality fit and understanding that cats need enrichment, patience and proper medical care to thrive.

Before adopting a cat, here are the eight biggest things experts say every future cat owner should consider.

The Expert

To learn more about what considerations to think about before adopting a cat, we spoke with Dr. Jordyn Zoul, a veterinarian at Seaside Veterinary Hospital on St. Simons Island, Georgia.

8 Things to Consider Before Adopting a Cat

"Owning a cat can be one of the simplest ways to add fulfillment and joy to your life," says veterinarian Dr. Jordyn Zoul. "At the same time, they can be incredibly social, attached to their person, loving and funny little roommates."

Still, she notes that cat ownership also comes with financial responsibilities that can quickly add up, especially during the first year.

Here's what to know about cats, their potential expenses, and how to keep them happy and healthy.

1. Cats Are a Long-Term Commitment

Cats can live well into their teens, and some even reach their early twenties. Before adopting a cat, it's important to think about whether you are prepared for the long-term financial and emotional responsibility of caring for a pet throughout its entire life.

2. Veterinary Costs May Add Up Quickly

According to Dr. Zoul, kittens in particular may require several veterinary visits within their first few months of life. "If you're getting a kitten (less than 1 year of age) and they've had no vaccines, you need to plan on being at the vet at least 3-4 times in the first 4 months of their life," she says.

Dr. Zoul says exam fees alone may range from $70 to $120 per visit depending on where you live, while vaccines and dewormers may add another $30 to $60 each appointment. She recommends planning for roughly $400 to $600 in initial preventive care costs, along with the cost of a future spay or neuter procedure.

3. Shelter Cats May Already Have Important Medical Care Completed

Adopting from a shelter or rescue organization can sometimes reduce upfront medical expenses. Dr. Zoul notes that many shelters vaccinate, microchip, and spay or neuter cats before adoption.

Before adopting a cat, check with the shelter or rescue to find out what (if any) medical care has already been completed for the cat you're interested in adopting. Be sure to also ask for any medical papers and microchip documents so you can have a record of what vaccines the cat has had, any medical procedures they've had and the microchip tracking information that's on file.

4. Your Home Needs to Be Prepared

Before your new cat arrives, stock up on necessary supplies ahead of time. According to the American Humane Society, cats need essentials like a litter box, food and water bowls, cat food, scratching posts, toys, grooming supplies and a safe place to sleep.

Cat-proofing your home is equally important. Kittens and curious cats may chew electrical cords, swallow small objects or jump onto kitchen counters if food is left unattended.

5. Cats Still Need Mental Stimulation and Attention

Although cats are often considered low-maintenance pets, they still require daily interaction and enrichment. The American Humane Society notes that cats need exercise, stimulation, and social interaction to stay happy and healthy. The organization even suggests considering adopting two cats together so they can help entertain and socialize each other.

6. Every Cat Has a Different Personality

Finding a cat whose temperament matches your lifestyle can make the transition easier for both of you. According to the American Humane Society, more easygoing cats are often described as having rounder faces and longer hair, while leaner cats with narrower faces may be more active and energetic.

Shelter staff and adoption counselors can often help match adopters with a cat whose personality fits their household. Be clear with them about what you're looking for in a cat, and they can better help you find your new feline friend.

7. Introducing a Cat to a New Home Takes Patience

Moving into a new environment can feel stressful for many cats, especially kittens or cats entering a home with other pets. The American Humane Society recommends initially keeping a newly adopted cat confined to a quiet room with food, water, toys, a litter box and a safe place to hide while they adjust. It may take several weeks for some cats to fully relax in a new environment, so slow introductions and patience are important.

8. Everyone in the Household Should Be Prepared for a Cat

Before adopting, the American Humane Society recommends making sure everyone in the home is ready for the responsibility of caring for a pet. This includes discussing introductions with existing pets and creating a plan for emergencies that includes your new cat. The organization also cautions against giving cats as surprise gifts because future owners should actively participate in the adoption process and have time to prepare for the commitment.

How Much Does It Cost to Own a Cat?

The first year of cat ownership is typically the most expensive. Between initial veterinary appointments, vaccines, spay or neuter procedures, supplies, food, and litter, costs can quickly add up.

According to Dr. Zoul, first-year expenses may include:

$400-$600 for vaccines, exams and preventive care
$250-$600 for spay or neuter surgery
$150-$400 for supplies like litter boxes, toys and food bowls

After the first year, costs often decrease to primarily food, litter, annual wellness exams and routine veterinary care.

Other Things to Know Before Adopting a Cat

You should choose a veterinarian before bringing your cat home and schedule an initial visit shortly after adoption. The American Humane Society advises bringing any medical records provided by the shelter or rescue organization to that first appointment.

It's also important to remember that cats can take time to settle into a new environment. Some may immediately explore their surroundings, while others may hide for days or even weeks as they adjust. Giving cats patience, consistency and a quiet space can help ease the transition and build trust more quickly.

This story was originally published May 29, 2026 at 5:02 AM.