- Cat Protection Society of Victoria (CPSV) is aiming to responsibly rehome 150 cats and kittens during National Pet Adoption Month.
- Cat ownership is a long-term commitment, with the average life expectancy of a cat around 15 years.
- The average cost of owning a cat is $1,656 per year, covering essentials such as food, litter, enrichment and veterinary care.
- CPSV does not discount adoption fees to ensure prospective cat owners fully understand the long-term financial responsibility of pet ownership
- CPSV invests over $400 in caring for and preparing each cat for adoption, with adoption fees covering only a small fraction of this cost
- Financial pressure is a leading cause of surrender, with 55% of CPSV's 2025 intake coming from surrenders, often driven by cost-of-care constraints.
The Cat Protection Society of Victoria (CPSV) is urging Victorians to adopt cats responsibly, with a clear focus on lifelong commitment, informed decision-making and long-term care.
As CPSV prepares for National Pet Adoption Month in March, the organisation is focused on matching the right cat with the right home through education, guidance and realistic expectations around pet ownership, with the goal of responsibly rehoming 150 cats and kittens into loving homes where adopters fully understand the long-term commitment involved.
CPSV Marketing and Communications Manager Rachel Bitzilis said cat adoption can be incredibly rewarding, but it must never be impulsive.
"Owning a cat is an immensely rewarding experience, but it is also a significant responsibility and a long-term commitment. With the average life expectancy of a cat being around 15 years, adoption is a decision that should be made with care and intention," Rachel said.
"At CPSV, we want to see as many cats and kittens adopted as possible, and to keep their length of stay in our shelter as short as we can. But it's critical they are adopted into loving, stable and responsible homes where their needs can be met for life.
"The average cost of owning a cat is around $1,656 per year, covering essentials like food, litter, enrichment and veterinary care.
"That's why we don't discount our adoption fees or run short-term adoption promotions. It's important that prospective cat owners understand the long-term financial and emotional commitment involved. CPSV invests over $400 in caring for and preparing each cat for adoption, with adoption fees covering only a small fraction of this cost."
In 2025 alone, more than half (55%) of total intake at CPSV came from surrenders, with financial constraints often the driving factor.
"Where possible, we want to avoid cats being surrendered or re-surrendered simply because their owners were not prepared for the ongoing costs," Rachel said.
"Pets are living beings and amazing companions with lifelong needs. They are not gifts or romantic gestures. Our team is passionate about doing right by our cats. We love helping people find the right match and setting them up for a successful, lifelong relationship."
CPSV encourages those considering adoption to visit its website to view profiles of cats and kittens currently available for adoption. The CPSV Adoption Shelter in Greensborough also welcomes prospective adopters during opening hours, Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm, and Sundays from 10am to 3pm.
