From $1500 to $150,000: The 10 Most Expensive Cat Breeds

They say that ‘Nobody owns a cat’ but cats have been with people for more than 12,000 years now. Cats and humans have enjoyed a mostly symbiotic relationship for thousands of years. Dogs became friends with humans’ way back than cats because of their hunting skills. While cats entered human homes only when people started having homes in the first place. For pest control, humans started owning cats as their crops were infected by mice.

It is said that the cats domesticated themselves. By that logic there shouldn’t be any price to cats but doesn’t work like that. Today there are over 70 cat breeds present in the world. In Canada, cats are the most popular house pet, with 8.1 million domesticated cats slinking around 38 percent of Canadian homes.¹

The price is generally decided based on the availability, demand, rarity, uniqueness in the features, etc. It doesn’t just stop at the initial price to get the cat but continues to vet costs, food, shelter, toys, treats, grooming, training, etc. Based on the above factors, we've curated a list of the top 10 most expensive cat breeds to own from around the world.

10. British Shorthair

One of the most ancient cat breeds known, the British Shorthair costs around $1,500. Sociable, affectionate and more laid back, these cats are well known for their copper eyes. They’ve got that superb blue-gray fur coat that looks so smooth and silky.

9. Maine Coon

With a long, shaggy coat that lays close to the body, a bushy long tail, tufted paw pads and large ears, Maine Coons are priced at $1500-$2000. A perfect choice for families with children, these are affectionate, playful.

8. Scottish Fold

The breed with folded ears, the Scottish fold finds its name in one of the most expensive cat breeds in the world. The cost can be around $3000. Nature wise these are happy, energetic and attention seeking. While the con is only the occurrence of joint diseases in this breed.

7. Sphynx

One of the most beautiful and unique looking cats, the Sphynx breed is a hairless one. Chamois leather like skin, very large ears, prominent cheekbones, muscular body, etc. are all the features of this rare breed which is priced at around $3000-$3500.

6. Peterbald

With a dog-like personality, extremely social, human-friendly and an attention seeking personality, the Peterbalds are priced around $3500 – $4000. Another hairless breed, these cats are intelligent, affectionate, and nimble. They could frequently amuse you with their sense of humor and the unexpected aerial ballet performance.

5. Russian Blue

With a distinct aristocratic look, the Russian Blue cats have a silver coat with deep green eyes. They may seem aloof most of the times but are actually quite smart and observant.

These intelligent creatures are priced at $3500-$4000.

4. The Persian

The beautiful white breed of cats, the Persians are one of the most popular in the world. With a soft, long coat and gentle temperament, these cats are priced at a range of $5000-$5500. The royal demeanor of these cats is what people pay so much for.

3. Bengal Cat

Although having a south Asian name, Bengal cats were actually developed in the US. With their exotic look, spotted leopard-like looking skin and muscular build, these are one of the premium cats in the world. The price can be as high as $25,000. But one look at these cats and the price would be justified.

2. Savannah

With a high difficulty in breeding with a serval, the Savannah cats are a rarity in itself. Along with that the dog like traits of playfulness, high energy, affection, etc. add on to the personality and hence the demand. Because of these factors, the price of a pure breed can go up to a whopping $50,000.

1. The Ashera

A direct descendant of the Asian leopard, the African serval and the common domestic cat, the Ashera is the most expensive breed of cats out there. Not just expensive, it is also one of the most rare ones out there due to its very difficult breeding and success rate. The price of a purebred Ashera can be as high as an astounding $150,000! Despite the fact that some say it is nothing but an F1 Savannah, it is the most exclusive pet one can own.

These lovely creatures of this planet come in different prices. Of course, there is no price for adoption but if looking for a specific breed, it can range from as low as $300 to as high as a whopping $150,000. There are other cat breeds as well who fall in the same range as the 10 listed above but these are the most popular ones.

The fun fact here is that even after paying a hefty $150,000 for a cat, you won’t feel like you own it because ‘No one can own a cat.’