There are many costs associated with the care of wild cats including food, housing, medicine and veterinary care, enrichment, and maintenance.  This exercise focuses on food cost. 

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Many factors must be considered when it comes to feeding. Just as with people or domestic pets, the size, weight, sex, and activity level of the individual all play a part.  When dealing with wild cats, observation is a crucial component. The body condition of the animal is monitored and the diet changed as necessary.

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For this exercise, we have simplified the process down to a simple equation.  But keep in mind that in reality this is much more complex. 

 

Use the cost worksheet to calculate the cost of food to feed the different cat species a protein-based diet. Wild cats require a raw, whole carcass diet as the bones provide important nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals. Look up the cost of bone-in protein (poultry, beef, venison, pork, etc.) and calculate what it costs to feed just one animal for a week and then a year. Compare that to cost of feeding a domestic house cat. 

 

Can you afford to feed a wild cat?