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Caring for a cat for life costs around 2.64 million yen, the equivalent of 18,600 euros.
This is the estimate by Japanese insurance company R&C Co related to the week that the Land of the Rising Sun celebrates National Cat Day on February 22nd.
According to a survey of 3,000 cat owners between the ages of 20 and 60, food is the largest expense item for keeping a cat at around 4,500 euros, which is an average of 25 euros per month.
Health costs follow, which could increase to an average of 3,300 euros with unplanned vet visits.
The survey also shows that the costs of guaranteeing your friend a well-heated environment during the winter months, while also having air conditioning in place during the long, humid Japanese summers, should not be overlooked. Costs that are said to be around 4,700 euros, without taking into account the recent increase in energy bills.
Research from the Japan Pet Food Association found that cats live an average of 15.6 years, and even if the monthly cost could be limited to tens of dollars, it is likely to increase over time.
The same association notes that 489,000 new cat owners were added in Japan in 2021, a 6% increase from the previous year, largely due to post-Covid-19 habits and more time people are spending at home doing remote work .
However, the Environment Ministry notes that in fiscal year 2020 the number of cats put up for adoption by owners reached 10,000 and hopes the published research will give people a chance to carefully consider the true cost of owning a cat as well understand taking into account his needs.
