The Ashera cat is often considered to be a status symbol amongst the cat lovers as they are one of the rarest and most expensive cat breeds to own. Buying an Ashera cat can cost up to $100,000 or more. Bringing home a pet is a big decision to make, so let's first start with a brief introduction of this cat breed.
Characteristics of an Ashera
Adult weight: 10 to 25 lbs.
Adult height: 12 – 16 in.
Origin – United States
Life expectancy: 12 – 20 years
The Ashera cat breed was first developed in 2006 by a company called Lifestyle Pets. They were marketed as an exotic cat breed with a hypoallergenic coat, however, this fact has come into question due to the lack of breed standards to verify their authenticity. This means that if you’re lucky enough to find an Ashera cat, you’ll likely pay an inflated price for them without even knowing if they’re authentic.
Ashera cats are said to be a hybrid of the domestic cat, Asian leopard, and the African Serval. The idea of combining wild cat breeds and domestic breeds raised ethical concerns amongst people. This breed is not recognized by any major cat breeding organizations.
What is the Price of an Ashera?
Now that you know a bit more about this rare cat breed, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the potential costs involved with bringing one home and caring for them.
Adoption or Buying: $500 – $100,000
If you’re looking to adopt an Ashera from a shelter in your area, it’s going to be tough as they are not easy to find. A good alternative for you might be the Savannah cat. Savannahs are similar looking cats and share the same ancestors as an Ashera. Although both are rare cat breeds, you have better odds of finding one when looking for both.
Adoption costs are typically around $100-$500. If you decide to purchase an Ashera from a breeder, it can cost you around $100,000 or more. It’s best to get one from a reputable breeder to help ensure the authenticity of the cats origins. If you choose to adopt a cat, checkout our cat adoption checklist as you get ready to bring your new pet home.
Monthly Costs for an Ashera Kitten
Diets: $30-$150
High quality food is vital to help maintain your cat’s health. The cost of food for an Ashera depends on their age, size, weight, and activity level. Special dietary needs or supplements may increase the cost, but it depends on what is needed for your pet’s good health and wellbeing. In general, the monthly cost for high-quality cat food can range from $30 to $150 or more.
Grooming: $30-$200
The Ashera is an expensive cat breed to maintain as they require regular care and grooming to help keep their coats shiny and healthy. Regular grooming products may cost $10-$30. Professional bathing can cost $20-$30 per session. Nail trimming, dental cleaning, and ear cleaning may cost $40-$100.
Medical Costs: $60-$100
As an exotic breed, Ashera’s may inherit medical conditions from their parent breeds. The Ashera cat is believed to be a hybrid of the Asian leopard cat, African serval, and a domestic cat. Controversy surrounding the Ashera’s authenticity and origins have led to limited information about the medical conditions they may be prone to. It’s a good idea to keep aside $700-$1200 per year for potential medical costs.
One-time Costs for an Ashera
Initial Costs: $800-$1000
Once you buy this exotic breed, you’ll want to get them some initial supplies. Initial expenses can include a carrier, grooming brush, litter box, toys, food and water bowls, treats, bed, and collar. These supplies could cost around $200-$400.
Microchipping: $55-$75
Microchipping an Ashera can cost around $55-$75. Microchipping is an important expense to help ensure your pet can be traced back to you if they get lost. Every pet parent loves their baby and would go through great lengths to protect them. Microchipping your pet helps make this easier.
Vaccines: $50-$100
The cost of vaccinations generally depends on the cost of the vaccine, clinic, and the location. Various vaccinations help protect your furry friend from various diseases as well as helps maintain the health of your cats. The vaccinations can cost about $50-$100 per shot. The major vaccines include the FVRCP vaccine, FeLV vaccine, Rabies vaccine, and the FIP vaccine.
Miscellaneous: $100-$150
It’s best to keep aside $100-$150 a year aside for miscellaneous expenses. These expenses include situations you may have not accounted for, including pet sitters while you’re on vacation, or a new cat scratcher because your cat tore through the first.
Lifetime Ashera Cost
The average cost of an Ashera cat can range between $100,000-$300,000 taking into consideration their average lifespan of 15-20 years. These costs include the adoption or purchasing fees of $100,000, routine health check-ups, food, supplies, and grooming. Medical costs including microchip implantation and vaccinations are also factored into this estimate. Miscellaneous costs can vary based on your needs.
These lovely pets deserve all the love they can get! We believe they are worth every penny and more.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a rare, intelligent, and loyal pet that has an affectionate personality, your search ends right here. Considered one of the most expensive cat breeds in the world, deciding to bring one home is a big decision. Like all pets, there are costs outside of the initial purchase price that you should be prepared and willing to spend. If you’re looking for a cat breed that’s a bit more budget friendly, the Ashera may not be the one for you.
Audrey Halfen: Beta fish whisperer - whopping 9 months and counting! Once had a dog named Max, who I assertively claim is the cutest dog ever. Ready to throw down in a cute-off, if necessary.
“Annual Cost of Owning a Kitten,” OVMA, https://www.ovma.org/assets/1/6/CostOfCare%202021%20Feline.pdf, n.d.
“Pet Spending Statistics in Canada,” Made in CA, https://madeinca.ca/pet-spending-canada-statistics, Jan. 4, 2024.
