18 of the Most Expensive Cat Breeds in the World (& What They Cost)

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Plus, what these expensive kitties are really like
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From the Maine Coon to the Munchkin, cats are one of the most popular pets in the world. While every cat is unique and adorable in their own way, it’s true that some breeds are more expensive than others due to their popularity, rarity, breeding difficulty, and pedigree. If you’re curious about the world’s most expensive cat breeds, keep reading! We’ll uncover what these felines usually cost as well as what they’re like, just in case you have the money to blow to get one.

Top 5 Most Expensive Cat Breeds

  1. Savannah cat: $1,500-25,000
  2. Khao Manee cat: $7,000-11,000
  3. British Shorthair cat: $300-5,000
  4. Sphynx cat: $1,800-3,000
  5. Peterbald cat: $1,700-3,000
Section 1 of 3:

Most Expensive Cat Breeds

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  1. 1
    Savannah: $1,500-25,000 With their leopard-like spots and exotic look, it’s no surprise that the Savannah cat is the most expensive breed! They’re the result of breeding the wild serval cat with domestic cats. Generally, Savannah cats that are less removed from their serval ancestors are more expensive. This breed is very active, playful, and curious. In particular, they love to swim. [1]
    • Height : 10–13 in (25–33 cm)
    • Weight : 9–15 lb (4.1–6.8 kg)
    • Temperament : Active, intelligent, friendly
    • Energy level : High
    • Coat length/Color : Short/Varies (brown, orange, black)
    • Lifespan : 12-15 years
    • Place of origin : USA
    • The Ashera cat is often cited as the most expensive cat breed. However, there’s conflicting evidence whether this cat breed actually exists! Previous breeders have claimed their cats are Ashura, but DNA evidence has shown that these cats are actually Savannah cats. So, Ashura cats might just be a scam to sell Savannah cats at an even higher price. [2]
  2. 2
    Khao Manee: $7,000-11,000 The Khao Manee cat was officially recognized recently, though they’ve been bred in Thailand for centuries, making it a rare and highly desirable breed. These cats are renowned for their pearly white fur and striking eyes—one blue and one gold. Their personality is just as pleasing as their appearance. Khao Manees are curious, intelligent, and playful. They love observing their families in action, especially while perched on their shoulders. [3]
    • Height : 10–16 in (25–41 cm)
    • Weight : 8–10 lb (3.6–4.5 kg)
    • Temperament : Sociable, intelligent, playful
    • Energy level : High
    • Coat length/Color : Short/White
    • Lifespan : 10-12 years
    • Place of origin : Thailand
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  3. 3
    British Shorthair: $300-5,000 British Shorthair cats may be one of the cutest breeds, with their plush fur, stocky build, and chubby, round cheeks. This ancient breed has been favored for centuries, which is why they often cost a pretty penny! British Shorthairs are known for their sweet, calm, and easy-going natures. They prefer showing their love through curiously observing their family’s habits instead of requesting cuddles. [4]
    • Height : 10–16 in (25–41 cm)
    • Weight : 8–16 lb (3.6–7.3 kg)
    • Temperament : Calm, curious, friendly
    • Energy level : Low
    • Coat length/Color : Short/Varies, but usually gray
    • Lifespan : 12-16 years
    • Place of origin : UK
  4. 4
    Sphynx: $1,800-3,000 Sphynx cats are a hairless breed that turns heads wherever they go, making them highly desired felines! While these cats may appear nude, they’re anything but shy—they’re considered one of the friendliest and personable cats. They love to greet every new person who comes to their house and request near-constant cuddles from their family. [5]
    • Height : 8–10 in (20–25 cm)
    • Weight : 8–12 lb (3.6–5.4 kg)
    • Temperament : Affectionate, intelligent, sociable
    • Energy level : High
    • Coat length/Color : Hairless
    • Lifespan : 13-15 years
    • Place of origin : Canada
  5. 5
    Peterbald: $1,700-3,000 Peterbald cats are rare but very sought after, making them a pretty expensive breed! They have a whimsical and eccentric appearance, with their sleek bodies, angular faces, and wide, bat-like ears. However, these cats often act more like dogs! Peterbald cats are social butterflies who need constant attention and affection. They’re also incredibly loyal and prefer sticking by their family’s side. [6]
    • Height : 8–10 in (20–25 cm)
    • Weight : 5–10 lb (2.3–4.5 kg)
    • Temperament : Loyal, sociable, playful
    • Energy level : Medium
    • Coat length/Color : Short or hairless/Varies (black, white, gray, orange, etc.)
    • Lifespan : 10-15 years
    • Place of origin : Russia
  6. 6
    Lykoi: $1,500-3,000 Nicknamed the wolf cat, the Lykoi is one of the most unique-looking cat breeds. They have a naturally occurring mutation that causes their hair to grow patchily, giving them a scruffy but totally adorable appearance. Like the wolves Lykois are named after, these cats are incredibly loyal, love to explore, and enjoy prey-play more than anything else! [7]
    • Height : 10–16 in (25–41 cm)
    • Weight : 4–10 lb (1.8–4.5 kg)
    • Temperament : Curious, intelligent, loyal
    • Energy level : High
    • Coat length/Color : Hairless and short/Gray or black
    • Lifespan : 12-15 years
    • Place of origin : USA
  7. 7
    Bengal: $1,500-3,000 Bengal cats are one of the most wild-looking domesticated cats, with true rosettes and spots that look like a leopard’s. They’re the result of breeding the wild leopard cat with domesticated breeds, like the Egyptian Mau and Abyssinian. Bengal cats are active and intelligent like their wild ancestors, but completely loving, loyal, and friendly. [8]
    • Height : 13–16 in (33–41 cm)
    • Weight : 6–15 lb (2.7–6.8 kg)
    • Temperament : Curious, playful, affectionate
    • Energy level : High
    • Coat length/Color : Short/Varies—usually rosetted and tabby (brown, cream)
    • Lifespan : 12-20 years
    • Place of origin : USA
  8. 8
    Persian: $1,300-3,000 Persian cats are an ancient breed that’s still one of the most popular cats in the world! They’re adored for their short snouts and floofy fur. As a plus, they’re just as cute as they look. They’re calm, easy-going, and almost always on their best behavior. [9]
    • Height : 8–10 in (20–25 cm)
    • Weight : 8–15 lb (3.6–6.8 kg)
    • Temperament : Gentle, easy-going, affectionate
    • Energy level : Low
    • Coat length/Color : Long/Varies (orange, black, gray, white, etc.)
    • Lifespan : 8-15 years
    • Place of origin : Iran
  9. 9
    Toyger: $1,200-3,000 Toyger cats are a rare breed that resemble miniature tigers , which is where they get their name. Despite their exotic-looking stripes, these cats are completely domesticated—they’re the result of breeding Bengal cats with domestic shorthairs. These kitties are outgoing and friendly, getting along with just about anyone! [10]
    • Height : 8–10 in (20–25 cm)
    • Weight : 7–15 lb (3.2–6.8 kg)
    • Temperament : Lively, affectionate, intelligent
    • Energy level : High
    • Coat length/Color : Short/Brown tabby
    • Lifespan : 12-15 years
    • Place of origin : USA
  10. 10
    Ragdoll: $1,200-2,300 Like their name suggests, Ragdoll cats are total darlings. From their silky soft fur, crystal blue eyes, and affectionate natures, these cats embody sweetness. So, it’s no surprise they’re on the expensive side! Ragdoll cats are relaxed and gentle, even around young children. They love being where their people are and never say no to a cuddle. [11]
    • Height : 9–11 in (23–28 cm)
    • Weight : 10–20 lb (4.5–9.1 kg)
    • Temperament : Affectionate, sweet, easy-going
    • Energy level : Medium
    • Coat length/Color : Long/White
    • Lifespan : 12-15 years
    • Place of origin : USA
  11. 11
    Himalayan: $300-3,000 Himalayan cats have a unique appearance similar to their Persian cat cousins—they have an adorably scrunched nose, bright blue eyes, and a striking pointed pattern. Himalayans also have a cute and cuddly personality. These gentle cats are homebodies who love curling up on the sofa with their families. [12]
    • Height : 12–14 in (30–36 cm)
    • Weight : 7–12 lb (3.2–5.4 kg)
    • Temperament : Affectionate, gentle, sociable
    • Energy level : Low
    • Coat length/Color : Long/White or cream
    • Lifespan : 12-15 years
    • Place of origin : USA
  12. 12
    Siberian: $1,000-2,000 Siberian Cats are a long-standing breed that have existed since at least 1000 CE. [13] They are still beloved today for their long, luxurious coat, bright eyes, and adorable personalities. According to cat behaviorist Rita Reimers, Siberian cats are calm, but playful, and very intelligent. She says they’re super loving, making them good with families and animals. As a plus, they’re as close to hypoallergenic as you can get!
    • Height : 9–11 in (23–28 cm)
    • Weight : 17–26 lb (7.7–11.8 kg)
    • Temperament : Friendly, lively, affectionate
    • Energy level : High
    • Coat length/Color : Long/Varies (white, gray, brown, etc.)
    • Lifespan : 12-18 years
    • Place of origin : Russia
  13. 13
    Scottish Fold: $1,000-2,000 Scottish Fold cats also have unique ears, except theirs fold down flat on their head! This gives them super sweet and expressive faces. Besides their cute and unique look, Scottish Fold cats are on the calmer side and happy doing their own thing, though they love affection, too. They’re known for being chatty but quiet and content to follow you around while you do things, but not getting in the way. [14]
    • Height : 11–14 in (28–36 cm)
    • Weight : 6–13 lb (2.7–5.9 kg)
    • Temperament : Gentle, affectionate, loyal
    • Energy level : Low
    • Coat length/Color : Short and long/Varies (white, gray, brown, etc.)
    • Lifespan : 11-15 years
    • Place of origin : UK
  14. 14
    American Curl: $1,000-2,000 The American Curl cat is a relatively rare breed that’s known for their distinct ears that curl backwards. That’s not the only reason they’re sought after, though. American Curls are very loving, loyal, and sweet. They’re people-oriented to the max and spend every moment with their families, from greeting them at the door to helping them prepare dinner. [15]
    • Height : 8–10 in (20–25 cm)
    • Weight : 5–10 lb (2.3–4.5 kg)
    • Temperament : Sociable, curious, intelligent
    • Energy level : Medium
    • Coat length/Color : Short/Varies (white, gray, orange, brown, etc.)
    • Lifespan : 10-20 years
    • Place of origin : USA
  15. 15
    Russian Blue: $1,000-1,700 With their blue-gray coat, silky fur, and striking green eyes, Russian Blue cats are often regarded as one of the most beautiful breeds. Their popularity (and price tag) is only heightened by their winning personalities. While they can be a bit shy at first, Russian Blues are loving and loyal companions once you gain their trust. They also love to play and are very smart—you can train them to do lots of tricks, like playing fetch and opening doors! [16]
    • Height : 8–10 in (20–25 cm)
    • Weight : 10–14 lb (4.5–6.4 kg)
    • Temperament : Playful, intelligent, affectionate
    • Energy level : Medium
    • Coat length/Color : Short/Gray
    • Lifespan : 10-20 years
    • Place of origin : Russia
  16. 16
    Devon Rex: $600-2,000 The Devon Rex cat is one of the most unique-looking cats, earning it a spot on the most expensive list. They’re the pixies of the cat world, with their delicate faces, wide, expressive eyes, and large ears. Devon Rexes aren’t just impish in their looks—they’re mischievous and have a habit of getting into everything you’re doing. Luckily, they’re incredibly friendly and affectionate, too! [17]
    • Height : 12–14 in (30–36 cm)
    • Weight : 6–9 lb (2.7–4.1 kg)
    • Temperament : Affectionate, sociable, mischievous
    • Energy level : Medium
    • Coat length/Color : Short/Varies (white, brown, gray, etc.)
    • Lifespan : 10-17 years
    • Place of origin : UK
  17. 17
    Oriental Shorthair: $400-2,000 Like their Siamese cat cousins, Oriental Shorthair cats are bold and elegant, with long, slim bodies and large ears. These visually stunning cats are also colorful in their personalities. They’re lively, playful, and love to express themselves with lots of meows. Oriental Shorthairs are also extremely outgoing and affectionate—they love attention and stick by their family members like glue. [18]
    • Height : 8–10 in (20–25 cm)
    • Weight : 5–12 lb (2.3–5.4 kg)
    • Temperament : Sociable, affectionate, playful
    • Energy level : High
    • Coat length/Color : Short/Varies (brown, black, white, orange, etc.)
    • Lifespan : 12-15 years
    • Place of origin : UK
  18. The Maine Coon is the largest non-hybrid cat breed. Along with their thick, fluffy coat and large ears, this is one striking feline! Despite their larger-than-life appearance, these kitties are big softies and incredibly sweet. They’re extremely popular family pets (hence the expensive price tag!) due to their love for people and gentleness with children. [19]
    • Height : 10–16 in (25–41 cm)
    • Weight : 12–20 lb (5.4–9.1 kg)
    • Temperament : Friendly, gentle, easy-going
    • Energy level : Medium
    • Coat length/Color : Long/Varies (gray, brown, cream, etc.)
    • Lifespan : 9-15 years
    • Place of origin : USA
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Section 2 of 3:

What makes certain cat breeds so expensive?

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  1. Pedigree and breeding are the top factors that increase cost. Popular, rare, or purebred cats are often more expensive than other types because they're highly sought-after and may be more difficult to breed. Breeding itself can also be costly, as the breeder has to pay for breeding rights, and pedigreed cats must be registered, which the breeder has to pay for. [20]
    • Additionally, caring for the mother and kittens, including food, supplies, medical exams, micro-chipping, vaccines, flea treatments, and spaying/neutering can also contribute to the cost.
Section 3 of 3:

How to Adopt an Expensive Cat Breed

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  1. Different cat breeds have different temperaments, attention needs, dietary needs, energy levels, lifespans, and risks for certain health conditions. It’s important to thoroughly research the cat breeds you like to make sure they’re compatible with your lifestyle and other family members, and that you can afford to care for them long-term. [21]
  2. 2
    Find a reputable breeder or rescue organization to adopt from. If you want to adopt a purebred cat, going through a breeder or rescue is generally your best option. Look up breeders or rescues in your area, or go to TICA’s or CFA’s website . Check that the breeder or rescue is registered with a reputable association, like TICA. Then, read through reviews from previous adopters to see if people recommend using the organization. [22]
    • If possible, visit the breeder or rescue in person. This way, you can check out the certification and conditions yourself.
    • Be wary of breeders or rescues that have little online presence, aren’t officially registered with a cat association, or seem to offer very low prices. This can be a sign that the organization is a scam (i.e., selling you a “purebred” cat when it’s not) or they don’t treat their cats well.
    • Note : If the price of a purebred cat is out of your price range, there are plenty of sweet kitties available to adopt at animal shelters. Purebred cats occasionally show up at shelters, too.
  3. 3
    Ask the breeder about your cat’s personality and health history. When you find a cat that you’re interested in adopting, reach out to the breeder or rescue about them. Ask the organization how the cat was raised, what they’re like, and what kind of home they’d like. Then, make sure to get the cat’s general health history, vaccination history, spayed/neutered status, and dietary and care needs. [23]
    • While cat breeds share certain characteristics, every cat is different. It’s important to learn about the cat you want to adopt to ensure they still fit with your lifestyle and care needs.
    • Avoid breeders or rescues who don’t socialize their cats or aren’t directly involved with the cat’s life, as this can be a sign that they’re a mill.
    • Be wary of organizations that don’t seem to know much about the cat or their breed, are unable to provide their health history, or generally seem cagey about answering your questions. This can be a sign that they’re not reputable or even a scam.
  4. 4
    Ask for the cat’s pedigree certificate. Reputable organizations will provide you with documents listing the cat’s ancestry and genetic history, confirming that they are actually the breed you want and purebred. This can also tell you about any health issues you might need to be aware of. [24]
    • Avoid breeders and rescues that don’t give you the pedigree papers or who aren’t open or familiar with their cat’s ancestry, as this can be a sign that they’re a scam.
    • Ask the breeder if you can see the cat’s parents. While you can’t visually confirm a cat’s breed, a willingness to show you the parents is usually a good sign of a reputable breeder. Plus, it helps you see that they care about the cats they’re raising.
  5. 5
    Find out if the breeder or rescue has a health guarantee or return policy. Most reputable organizations offer a health guarantee, which is a promise that the cat is healthy with no current diseases or known risks for developing one. If they happen to pass from a disease, the organization will provide another cat. It’s also a good idea to make sure you can return the cat in the sad event that you can no longer keep them. [25]
    • Having both of these protections in place is a sign that the organization is reputable and raises healthy, happy cats. Avoid places that do not provide these.
  6. 6
    Visit the cat in person. Of course, it’s important to make sure you and the cat you’re interested in can form a connection. This is also your opportunity to visually inspect the cat and ensure they’re well cared for and in good health. For instance, a poorly groomed coat and eye discharge can be signs that the cat is sick or being raised in poor conditions. [26]
    • Avoid breeders who won’t let you meet the cat before you pay for them, as this is a likely sign that they’re a scam.
  7. If you like the cat and you get along, the next step is to adopt them! Ask the breeder or rescue what other fees you need to pay besides the general adoption fee. For instance, the organization might charge you for a medical exam, vaccinations, spaying/neutering, flea treatments, and an ID tag. [27]
    • Most breeders and rescues will provide you with an adoption contract. Make sure to read it over thoroughly before you sign it so you understand all agreements, guarantees, and fees you’re responsible for.
    • Think about what ongoing expenses your cat will require to ensure they’re in your price range. For instance, you’ll have to buy them food, a litter box, a bed, and toys.
    • Take into account what regular checkups cost and prepare for unexpected vet visits, too.
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      • There are also lots of wealthy cats! For instance, the cat Tommaso inherited $13 million after their owner left them their fortune. [28] Taylor Swift’s cats, Meredith, Olivia, and Benjamin, are also considered extremely well-off due to their owner’s wealth.
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      • While serval cats are used to breed Savannah cats, they are wild animals and not domesticated. They can be owned in some countries and states with a permit, but they are not considered pets. [29]
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      References

      1. ↑ https://cats.com/cat-breeds/savannah
      2. ↑ https://savannahcatassociation.org/ashera-cats/
      3. ↑ https://cfa.org/breed/khao-manee/
      4. ↑ https://cfa.org/breed/british-shorthair/
      5. ↑ https://cats.com/cat-breeds/sphynx
      6. ↑ https://tica.org/breed/peterbald/
      7. ↑ https://cfa.org/breed/lykoi/
      8. ↑ https://cats.com/cat-breeds/bengal-cat
      9. ↑ https://tica.org/breed/persian/
      1. ↑ https://cats.com/cat-breeds/toyger
      2. ↑ https://cats.com/cat-breeds/ragdoll
      3. ↑ https://cats.com/cat-breeds/himalayan-cat
      4. ↑ https://cats.com/cat-breeds/siberian-cat
      5. ↑ https://cats.com/cat-breeds/scottish-fold
      6. ↑ https://tica.org/breed/american-curl/
      7. ↑ https://tica.org/breed/russian-blue/
      8. ↑ https://tica.org/breed/devon-rex/
      9. ↑ https://cats.com/cat-breeds/oriental-shorthair
      10. ↑ https://tica.org/breed/maine-coon/
      11. ↑ https://www.masterpieceragdolls.com/why-are-ragdoll-cats-expensive/
      12. ↑ https://tica.org/pet-buyers-guide/
      13. ↑ https://tica.org/pet-buyers-guide/
      14. ↑ https://tica.org/pet-buyers-guide/
      15. ↑ https://tica.org/pet-buyers-guide/
      16. ↑ https://tica.org/pet-buyers-guide/
      17. ↑ https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/recognizing-signs-of-illness-in-cats
      18. ↑ https://cats.com/cost-to-adopt-a-cat
      19. ↑ https://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2011/12/woman-leaves-13m-fortune-to-pet-cat
      20. ↑ https://spca.bc.ca/faqs/do-serval-cats-make-good-house-pets/

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