Model review, 14 October 2026: the examples below now come directly from the current calculator. They replace older incomplete totals and unsupported national rankings. Underlying price inputs are illustrative starting assumptions, not measured current market ranges; internal agreement is not market validation.
Cat budgets vary with food, litter, coat care, acquisition and the individual animal. These selected examples are generated by the current calculator. They are not national price averages or proof that a particular breed will have the lowest bills.
Current calculator examples
AUD · VIC · breeder purchase · mid-range spending · insurance included · professional grooming allocation · basic training for dogs, indoor living for cats · no boarding, walking or daycare. Reserve: $0, separate from spending. These are model scenarios, not verified national prices or individual quotes.
Swipe the table sideways if needed. Monthly figures spread ongoing spending over 12 months; first-year setup is separate.
| Breed | Monthly ongoing | First year | Annual ongoing | Lifetime spending |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burmese | $165 | $4,661 | $1,978 | $34,331 |
| Mixed Breed Cat | $165 | $2,736 | $1,978 | $30,428 |
| Russian Blue | $165 | $4,811 | $1,978 | $36,459 |
| Domestic Shorthair | $168 | $2,797 | $2,014 | $30,993 |
| Siamese | $168 | $4,347 | $2,014 | $32,543 |
| British Shorthair | $207 | $6,467 | $2,484 | $41,243 |
| Bengal | $188 | $7,487 | $2,254 | $36,789 |
| Ragdoll | $229 | $6,477 | $2,744 | $44,893 |
| Persian | $244 | $5,912 | $2,929 | $46,918 |
| Maine Coon | $249 | $6,741 | $2,983 | $45,520 |
Lifetime spending uses each profile's rounded midpoint lifespan at constant prices, without inflation or age-related premium changes. Unexpected treatment and dental procedures are excluded; no health-probability allowance is added. A reserve is money set aside, shown separately in the calculator.
Generated from the same inputs and engine as the calculator, so these examples update with the model. Inspect sources and assumptions or edit your own scenario.
Check What the Comparison Includes
Unlike the old essentials-only table, these figures include the current calculator’s routine care, parasite-prevention, litter, registration and other applicable categories. Inspect the stated settings and the methodology. A profile’s zero professional-grooming allocation does not establish that an individual cat never needs assistance.
Acquisition and Included Care
Ask for the actual fee and procedures included by the breeder or rescue. The calculator starts adoption with desexing, microchipping and initial vaccination included; you can change each inclusion and enter any separately payable amount. Confirm registration eligibility and whether a fee has already been paid. A lower adoption fee is not a guarantee of lower future care costs.
Living Arrangements Change Categories
Litter and care arrangements should follow your actual home and cat. Containment may involve setup, enrichment and maintenance. It does not establish a fixed insurance discount or a financial return from avoided bills. See the containment budget guide.
Keep Unexpected Care Separate
Health reference topics do not affect calculated spending. Treatment and dental procedures are not forecast. You may enter a separate reserve from year one, but neither its amount nor the higher spending scenario caps possible bills. Compare policy terms and your available funds separately.
Choose your own pair in the comparison tool, browse cat profiles and use the first-year checklist for setup gaps.