  |
|
|
|
How to Save Money on Cat Food & Caring for Pets.Economising During the 'Credit Crunch' While Keeping Kitty Healthy
Rising prices mean many families are being forced to economise on everything, including care of family pets. There are good and bad ways to save money on cat care.
Cat owners who need to cut back on costs in these difficult times need to do so carefully if they are not to jeopardize their cat’s health. Cutting corners in the wrong way can lead to more outgoings with expensive bills, particularly if a cat gets sick due to a poor diet or for other reasons. Here are some suggestions on how to save money on one's cat(s), and also advice on what not to do. Saving Money on Cat FoodFeeding family leftovers to a cat is not recommended. Some cats have been made quite ill in this way, partly due to the sudden change of diet, with expensive vet bills as a result. Much human food is simply not suitable for cats. Also, leftovers such as fatty meat can cause feline obesity, and this is associated with a number of other cat diseases. However, there are ways to economise on feeding cats. Switching from a wet or tinned food to a good dried cat food can be a more economical way of feeding cats, with no wastage. And it is worth comparing online pet supermarkets, where branded cat food is often cheaper than on the high street. Cheaper Medical Care for CatsIt is not a good idea to economise on routine medical care such as flea and worm treatments, dental care and checkups, vaccinations, and annual check-ups at the vet. If any of these are neglected the cat could become sick, which would necessitate far more expensive veterinary treatment. To save money, cat owners should again look online, where flea treatments, worming medication, and similar items can often be bought at reduced rates. And homeopathic vaccination and remedies are often cheaper than conventional treatments, though these should be investigated carefully first, as they may not be suitable for all cats in every situation. Saving on Cat InsuranceFor those cat owners who already have insurance, it is worth sticking with it. But it may be worth shopping round for a cheaper alternative, bearing in mind that in this instance cheapest is not always best, and the coverage offered should be looked at carefully. Some people may prefer to ‘self-insure’ – that is, keep some money on hand to cover expensive unexpected vet bills. Everyone must make his own choice, but it is well to bear in mind that veterinary costs are increasing, and can run into hundreds of pounds or dollars very easily Other Ways of Saving Money on Cat CareSupermarket-brand cat litters are often cheaper than specialist brands. However, it is best to use the type of litter which the cat is used to, as many cats do not like a change, and will refuse to use a different type of litter. It is not necessary to buy expensive cat toys. Cats like – and even prefer – cardboard boxes, tissue paper, scrunched up balls of foil, and other ordinary household items which come at no cost. These can provide hours of fun for the cat or kitten. In some countries those on low incomes can get free veterinary treatment. This may be worth investigating. Wise owners will find they can save money yet still have a happy and healthy cat. And that, of course, is what everyone wants. SourceYour Cat Magazine, November 2008 Rehoming a Rescue Cat Cats - Keep Indoors or Go Outside Homeopathic First Aid for Cats
The copyright of the article How to Save Money on Cat Food & Caring for Pets. in Cat Care is owned by Helen Krasner. Permission to republish How to Save Money on Cat Food & Caring for Pets. in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
|
|
|
|
