22 July 2008

Animal lovers can look after cats for less than a pound a day, according to industry experts.

Eva Petersen, from the Brook House Veterinary Hospital, in Southampton, made the comments in light of cat shelters which are filling up around the country with abandoned pets.

Ms Petersen revealed that prospective owners should not worry about the costs of caring for a cat as it can be affordable.

"The first thing I would do is advise people to buy dry food which may not sound exciting but is just as good for your cat - in fact it is often better," she said to the Daily Echo.

"I think people put expensive brand name wet food in the shopping basket without even realising how much it costs."

Cat owners are also advised to take out insurance policies which can total just £8 per month and to ensure their pets get their regular jabs to prevent ill health and expensive bills.

Ms Petersen estimates that the combined total for cat care comes to only 96 pence daily.

Blue Cross figures show that up to 30 per cent of pets are abandoned due to owners not being able to afford their upkeep.