Cats have captured the hearts of millions, with a staggering 46.5 million US households owning at least one feline friend.1 While the average cost of adopting a cat ranges from $50 to $200, some rare breeds can command prices that will make your whiskers curl.
What makes these cats so valuable? From exotic genetics to unique features, the world of high-end felines is as fascinating as it is expensive. Here are 15 of the most expensive cat breeds.
1. Ashera
The Ashera is the ultimate luxury cat, with a price tag of up to $125,000. This exotic breed is a cross between an African Serval, an Asian Leopard Cat, and a domestic housecat, resulting in a stunning feline that resembles a miniature leopard.
- Height: 4-5 feet when standing on hind legs
- Weight: 26-33 pounds
- Lifespan: Up to 25 years
- Hypoallergenic coat
2. Savannah
Savannah cats are a cross between an African Serval and a domestic cat, creating a breed that boasts both wild looks and a friendly temperament. These majestic felines can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $20,000, depending on their generation and pedigree.
- Height: 17-22 inches
- Weight: 12-25 pounds
- Lifespan: 12-20 years
- Exotic spotted coat
3. Bengal
Bengal cats, known for their wild appearance and energetic personalities, are a cross between an Asian Leopard Cat and a domestic cat. These stunning felines typically cost between $1,000 and $4,000, with some rare specimens fetching even higher prices.
- Height: 13-16 inches
- Weight: 8-22 pounds
- Lifespan: 12-16 years
- Distinctive marbled or spotted coat
4. Khao Manee
The Khao Manee, also known as the Diamond Eye cat, is a rare breed from Thailand. These elegant white cats are known for their mesmerizing eyes, which can be blue, green, or odd-eyed. Prices for Khao Manees range from $7,000 to $11,000.
- Height: 10-12 inches
- Weight: 8-12 pounds
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
- Pure white coat and striking eye colors
5. Sphynx
Sphynx cats, with their hairless bodies and wrinkled skin, are a unique and expensive breed. These affectionate and energetic felines typically cost between $1,500 and $3,000.
- Height: 8-10 inches
- Weight: 6-12 pounds
- Lifespan: 8-14 years
- Hairless body requires regular bathing
6. Persian
Persian cats, known for their luxurious long coats and flat faces, are one of the most popular and expensive cat breeds. Prices for these gentle and affectionate felines range from $500 to $5,000, with some rare color variations commanding even higher prices.
- Height: 10-15 inches
- Weight: 7-12 pounds
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Thick, long coat requires daily grooming
7. Scottish Fold
Scottish Fold cats are known for their adorable folded ears and round, expressive eyes. These sweet-tempered felines typically cost between $800 and $2,000.
- Height: 8-10 inches
- Weight: 9-13 pounds
- Lifespan: 11-14 years
- Distinctive folded ears and owl-like appearance
8. Peterbald
Peterbald cats, a relatively new breed originating from Russia, are known for their hairless or short-coated bodies and affectionate personalities. These unique felines can cost between $1,000 and $2,600.
- Height: 8-12 inches
- Weight: 6-12 pounds
- Lifespan: 10-13 years
- Hairless or short-coated body
9. Ragdoll
Ragdoll cats are known for their large size, gentle temperament, and stunning blue eyes. These affectionate and laid-back felines typically cost between $800 and $2,500.
- Height: 9-11 inches
- Weight: 10-20 pounds
- Lifespan: 12-17 years
- Soft, silky coat in pointed colors
10. Siberian
Siberian cats, originating from Russia, are known for their thick, luxurious coats and friendly personalities. These majestic felines typically cost between $600 and $2,000.
- Height: 9-11 inches
- Weight: 8-20 pounds
- Lifespan: 8-14 years
- Dense, triple coat adapted for cold climates
11. Maine Coon
Maine Coon cats, one of the largest domestic cat breeds, are known for their impressive size, thick coats, and gentle dispositions. These majestic felines typically cost between $800 and $1,500.
- Height: 10-16 inches
- Weight: 8-18 pounds
- Lifespan: 9-13 years
- Long, shaggy coat and tufted ears and paws
12. Russian Blue
Russian Blue cats are known for their stunning blue-gray coats, green eyes, and intelligent, affectionate personalities. These elegant felines typically cost between $400 and $3,000.
- Height: 9-11 inches
- Weight: 7-15 pounds
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Short, dense coat in a distinctive blue-gray color
13. British Shorthair
British Shorthair cats are known for their round faces, dense coats, and calm, affectionate personalities. These sturdy felines typically cost between $800 and $1,500.
- Height: 12-14 inches
- Weight: 9-18 pounds
- Lifespan: 12-20 years
- Short, plush coat in a variety of colors and patterns
14. Egyptian Mau
Egyptian Mau cats are known for their exotic spotted coats, green eyes, and athletic, playful personalities. These ancient felines typically cost between $900 and $1,600.
- Height: 8-10 inches
- Weight: 6-14 pounds
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Distinctive spotted coat and natural eyeliner
15. Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian Forest Cats, also known as “Wegies,” are large, muscular cats with thick, waterproof coats adapted for cold climates. These gentle giants typically cost between $800 and $2,000.
- Height: 9-12 inches
- Weight: 8-20 pounds
- Lifespan: 8-14 years
- Long, dense coat with a ruff around the neck
From the exotic Ashera to the majestic Norwegian Forest Cat, these 15 expensive cat breeds showcase the incredible diversity and beauty of the feline world. While their price tags may be steep, the love, companionship, and unique personalities these cats offer are truly priceless.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.