Top 11 Most Expensive Cat Breeds in the World
Cats are the second most popular preference for housepets in the US, with a staggering 42.7 million American households owning a cat in 2019–2020. While some people simply prefer adopting and taking care of stray cats, more and more expensive cat breeds are being adopted by rich families.
As no expenses are spared when it comes to caring for pets, people also want to spend huge amounts of money to adopt them. If you want to raise a rare and expensive cat breed, take a look at this compilation of the most expensive cat breeds in the world.
Top 11 Most Expensive Cat Breeds
Here is a list of the most expensive cat breeds available in the US; their price tags might be exorbitant, but their love is worth every penny!
#1. Persian
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Price Range: $500 to $5000.
Known for their silky smooth coat and adorable round face, this gentle cat breed is quite a popular preference for cat-parents.
If your Persian cat is pedigreed with registered parents, their rates go higher. And this price tag goes higher if the cat’s parents have won awards in pet shows.
There are two types of Persian cats — flat-faced Show Persians and round-faced Doll Persians. The former is a little more expensive as they’re quite rare and always in demand. Other factors like gender, age, color, and coat quality play a deciding role in their prices; a female white kitten would be on the highest end of the price range.
#2. Maine Coon
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Price Range: $1000 and above.
Maine Coon cats are quite expensive, owing to the expenses incurred by the breeder while caring for them. This includes genetic screening for diseases like spinal muscular atrophy, kidney and heart ailments, and mineral deficiency.
Breeders also need to ensure a healthy, high-quality diet rich in protein. Vaccinations, vet consultations, microchips, neutering, etc., are other costs incurred by the breeders which help maintain the Coon cat properly. Besides, Maine Coons look exceptionally regal, well worth their price tag.
#3. Bengal
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Price Range: $600 to $2750.
This highly exotic and coveted breed is one of the most expensive cat breeds in the world.
Bengal cats are originally hybrids and have inherited the genes of Asian Leopard cats. They can be bred in different, unique colors — an important factor while determining their price. However, they aren’t exactly legal to own in a few states across the US and are highly regulated by law.
There are very few catteries (cat-breeding centers) that live up to the standard of breeding Bengal cats. They need to ensure there is no inbreeding as it limits further breeding and interferes with their health.
#4. Savannah
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Price Range: $3000 to $5000 for Savannahs two/three generations removed.
Savannahs are majestic creatures that are a domesticated cross between an African Wild Serval and a domestic cat. The more closer they are to the exotic Serval, the higher their demand and price.
Their spotted coat makes them highly coveted. Unfortunately, possession of a Savannah cat is prohibited in states such as Georgia, Hawaii, and Texas. New York only permits the ownership of Savannas that are at least five generations removed from their wild ancestors.
According to Elite Veterinary Care’s estimates, the breeding costs rise to a whopping $22,000. Male Savannahs can go for life without choosing to breed, which becomes quite the issue for them.
#5. Ragdoll
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Price Range: $400 to $1000.
The high demand for this cat breed is the reason for its astronomical prices.
Purebred Ragdoll cats have an extremely luxurious coat that has a diffusion of grey and black. Their eyes are a stunning baby blue, making them appear exquisite. These animals are quite friendly and will remain loyal to you once you’ve gained their trust. They’re super intelligent, and not to mention cuddly as hell!
#6. American Wirehair
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Price Range: $1000 to $2000.
This cat breed has one of the squishiest faces you’ll ever see on an animal. They have a round head with notably high cheekbones. Their eyes tip upward, and they have crimped hair that is quite an enviable trait.
Interestingly, the American Wirehair was a spontaneous mutation that is not related to the similar-looking British Rex breeds at all. Their spongy and very low-maintenance coats are their selling point.
Remember to engage them in physical activity as much as you can, as they enjoy being super active.
#7. American Curl
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Price Range: $800 to $1300.
The “curl” of the American Curl cat refers to its ears that cave into its face. Their price depends on this factor — the curlier their ear, the higher the price.
However, the cartilage in their ears is quite sensitive so this cat breed needs to be handled with extreme care. They do love gliding in the air every chance they get and can get very mischievous.
They have colorful patterns on their coats, and the rarity of their breed is also a driving factor in their high price.
#8. Scottish Fold
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Price Range: $800 to $15000.
This cat breed is a favorite amongst celebrities; you must’ve noticed the likes of Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift flaunting their Scottish Folds on social media.
Scottish Fold cats have an adorable round face, which is further accentuated by their incredibly fluffy and soft fur and a myriad of patterns and colors on their body. They also have folded ears sometimes; while this is a desirable trait, it could cause health problems like arthritis.
Funnily enough, Scottish Folds enjoy sitting like the Buddha, with their paws on their tummy!
#9. Siberian Forest Cat
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Price Range: $1000 to $2000.
You will love having a Siberian Forest cat around if you’re looking for a friendly feline. They have a knack for sensing distress and comforting their people. This is a Russian breed that has existed for a thousand years. Given their fluffy mane, they are often confused for Maine Coons.
They have an incredibly soft coat and piercing eyes that come in shades of blue or golden-green. Sometimes, they have two different eye colors as well, a quirk which is known as heterochromia.
#10. British Shorthair
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Price Range: $1500 to $2000.
They’re quite the regal-looking cat and remain playful throughout their life. British Shorthairs are also very high-priced because of their luxurious coat that sports a variety of colors and patterns.
You’ll be mesmerized by their piercing eyes. As these felines are bred a lot less than most of their counterparts, they remain in high demand.
#11. Sphynx
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Price Range: $900 to $2000.
This cat breed is officially on top of the list of exotic breeds that are highly coveted by cat-parents.
Sphynx cats love lazing around and bonding with people. With skin that feels like the softest fabrics, the Sphynx cat looks quite unique. They have extremely fine hair, so they need protection from skin infections, sunburns, etc.
Sphynx cats are completely purebred as well. They will require a lot of your attention, and also need to be checked for heart problems every year.
A Few Parting Words
It’s quite the experience to own a cat that is desired by millions around the world. More importantly, despite being the most expensive cat breeds, these felines are worth the investment! You get all their love and royalty once you gain their trust.
