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How Much Do Cats Cost at PetSmart? The Real Deal on Feline Adoption

You’re thinking about welcoming a furry feline into your life, and PetSmart might be on your radar. That’s fantastic! But before you rush out to pick a purrfect pal, let’s get down to brass tacks: how much does adopting a cat from PetSmart actually cost?

The direct answer is: PetSmart itself doesn’t sell cats. Instead, they partner with local animal shelters and rescue organizations to host adoption events in their stores. This means the adoption fee isn’t set by PetSmart, but rather by the individual rescue group. Typically, these fees range from $0 to $200. The price range varies on factors such as the cat’s age, breed (if known), and the services included in the adoption package. Senior cats, for example, may have lower adoption fees, and special events might even offer waived fees.

Understanding Adoption Fees at PetSmart

While PetSmart doesn’t directly profit from cat adoptions, they provide a valuable service by offering a safe and accessible venue for these deserving animals to find forever homes. It’s a win-win! However, the key is understanding what you’re paying for when you hand over that adoption fee.

What’s Included in the Adoption Fee?

Think of the adoption fee as an investment in your new cat’s well-being and a contribution to the vital work of the rescue organization. Here’s what that fee often covers:

Spaying or Neutering: This is a crucial step in responsible pet ownership. It prevents unwanted litters and offers numerous health benefits for your cat.
Initial Vaccinations: Your adopted cat will likely have received its initial core vaccinations, protecting it against common feline diseases like feline distemper, calicivirus, and rhinotracheitis.
Deworming: Parasites are common in rescue animals. Deworming ensures your cat starts its new life parasite-free.
Flea and Tick Treatment: Another common issue addressed before adoption to ensure your cat’s comfort and health.
Microchipping: A microchip provides permanent identification, significantly increasing the chances of being reunited with your cat if it ever gets lost.
Veterinary Examination: Many rescue organizations provide a basic veterinary checkup before placing a cat for adoption to ensure it is in good health.
Support for the Rescue Organization: Your adoption fee helps the rescue continue its mission of rescuing, caring for, and rehoming abandoned and neglected animals.

Factors Influencing Adoption Fees

As mentioned earlier, several factors can influence the adoption fee you’ll encounter at a PetSmart adoption event:

Age of the Cat: Kittens often have higher adoption fees due to their higher demand and the extensive veterinary care they require. Senior cats, on the other hand, may have lower fees to encourage their adoption.
Breed (or Perceived Breed): While most cats at PetSmart adoption events are mixed breeds (Domestic Shorthair, Domestic Longhair, etc.), if a cat resembles a specific breed (e.g., a Siamese mix), the adoption fee might be slightly higher.
Medical History: If a cat has required extensive medical treatment, the adoption fee might reflect those costs. However, rescue organizations are usually transparent about pre-existing conditions.
Location and Rescue Organization: Adoption fees can vary based on the region and the specific rescue organization hosting the event. Some areas have higher veterinary costs, which may be reflected in the fees.

Beyond the Adoption Fee: Budgeting for Your New Cat

The adoption fee is just the initial expense. It’s crucial to budget for the ongoing costs of cat ownership:

Food: High-quality cat food is essential for your cat’s health and well-being.
Litter and Litter Box: You’ll need a suitable litter box and an ongoing supply of litter.
Veterinary Care: Annual checkups, vaccinations, and potential unexpected medical expenses are a must.
Toys and Enrichment: Cats need toys and scratching posts to stay entertained and prevent behavioral problems.
Grooming Supplies: Brushes, nail clippers, and other grooming tools are essential for maintaining your cat’s hygiene.
Pet Insurance: Consider pet insurance to help cover the costs of unexpected veterinary emergencies.

Finding Your Purrfect Match at PetSmart

PetSmart adoption events offer a wonderful opportunity to meet a variety of cats and kittens in need of loving homes.

How to Find Adoption Events at PetSmart

Check PetSmart’s Website: PetSmart’s website usually lists upcoming adoption events at local stores.
Contact Your Local PetSmart Store: Call your local PetSmart store and ask about upcoming adoption events.
Follow Local Rescue Organizations: Many rescue organizations promote their PetSmart adoption events on their websites and social media pages.

Tips for a Successful Adoption

Do Your Research: Learn about different cat breeds and temperaments to find a cat that matches your lifestyle.
Meet and Greet: Spend time interacting with the cats at the adoption event to see if you connect with one.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the rescue volunteers questions about the cat’s history, personality, and medical needs.
Prepare Your Home: Before bringing your new cat home, make sure you have everything it needs: food, water, litter box, scratching post, and a safe, comfortable space.
Be Patient: It may take your new cat some time to adjust to its new home. Be patient, loving, and understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cat Adoption at PetSmart

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to guide you through the process of adopting a cat at PetSmart:

Are the cats at PetSmart actually from PetSmart, or are they from rescues? The cats are from local animal shelters and rescue organizations. PetSmart provides the space for adoption events.
Can I adopt a cat from PetSmart if I live in a different state? Generally, no. Rescue organizations typically require adopters to live within a specific radius to facilitate home visits and follow-up care if needed.
What if the cat I adopt from PetSmart gets sick shortly after adoption? Most rescue organizations offer some form of post-adoption support, including information on common feline illnesses and resources for finding affordable veterinary care. Review the rescue’s adoption contract for specifics.
Do I need to fill out an application to adopt a cat at PetSmart? Yes, you’ll need to fill out an adoption application, which will be reviewed by the rescue organization. This helps ensure a good match between the cat and the adopter.
Can I return a cat to PetSmart if it doesn’t work out? You can’t return a cat to PetSmart itself, as they aren’t the ones who placed the cat. You would need to contact the rescue organization from which you adopted the cat and follow their return policy.
Are there age restrictions for adopting a cat at PetSmart? Yes, most rescue organizations require adopters to be at least 18 years old.
What if I have other pets at home? Should I bring them to the adoption event? It’s generally not recommended to bring your existing pets to the adoption event. Introducing a new cat should be done gradually in a controlled environment at home.
Do PetSmart adoption events only feature cats? While cat adoption events are common at PetSmart, some stores also host adoption events for dogs and other small animals.
If the adoption fee seems high, can I negotiate it? Adoption fees are typically non-negotiable. They are set by the rescue organization to cover their costs and support their mission.
What kind of follow-up care can I expect from the rescue organization after adopting a cat? The level of follow-up care varies depending on the rescue organization. Some may conduct home visits, while others may simply provide resources and support by phone or email.
Will the rescue organization have information about the cat’s personality and history? Yes, the rescue organization should be able to provide you with information about the cat’s personality, temperament, and any known medical or behavioral issues.
What if I want a specific breed of cat? Is PetSmart a good place to find that? While you might occasionally find a purebred or breed-specific mix at a PetSmart adoption event, it’s generally not the best place to look for a specific breed. You’re better off contacting a breed-specific rescue organization or a reputable breeder.

Bringing a cat into your home is a rewarding experience. By understanding the adoption process at PetSmart and budgeting for the ongoing costs of cat ownership, you can ensure a happy and healthy life for your new feline friend. Good luck on your journey to finding your purrfect companion!