Isn't their whole goal to find homes for cats who need them? And haven't they accomplished that? I can only speak from my experience with Zipper, who we were fostering. But I was required to pay his adoption fee of $75 (it is less because he is considered to be a "senior" dog).

Surely, if you are reasonable, they will be. Explain your monetary issues and assure them that you will pay the $45, but since all the expenses have been yours to date, you feel it is unnecessary for them to charge you the $125 adoption fee.

He's been with you quite a while now, hasn't he?? They might need a reminder of that too!

Good luck.