Why Get a Bengal Cat?
Life expectancy: 10 – 15 years
Adult Weight: 8 – 10 lbs.
Adult Height: 14 – 18 in.
Are you looking for a friendly new house pet? Bengal cats are a beautiful breed that sports its trademark spots on their coat, giving it the appearance of a small, cuddly cheetah. These spots set them apart from all other domestic cats. These dependable animals are great with kids because of their extremely playful nature. They are also known to be incredibly smart and love enriching activities. However, this active cat comes at a price due to its rarity. In this article, you’ll find out how much a Bengal cat is initially and how much it could cost you over time.
Shop or Adopt Bengal Cats?
Adoption: $50 – $100
If you love the look and attitude of the Bengal cat, but don’t love the price tag, adoption is a good route for you. Some owners need to give up their Bengal cat for adoption due to a move, a death or any multitude of reasons. A good place to look for Bengal cats to adopt is through a local community pet adoption board, or by calling shelters near you.
At a local animal shelter, you’ll likely have to pay $50 – $100 to adopt a Bengal cat. Be sure to reach out to your local shelter and ask about any upcoming dates that adoption fees may be waived or discounted. Also ask if you can visit any Bengal cats they may currently have at the shelter.
Breeding: $1,500 – $3,000
Some people want the assurance that the cat they are buying is 100 percent purebred Bengal. If this is important to you, the best option is to work with a certified Bengal cat breeder. Although the price increases greatly, you will have the peace of mind that you know everything about your cat from personality to potential health problems. The price will go up or down depending on the quality of the cat’s bloodline. Find a breeder near you at The International Cat Association and be sure to visit the cats before choosing one to take home.
What Type of Bengal Cat Do You Want?
The cost of a Bengal cat can vary greatly depending on size, age, and the breeder’s bloodline superiority. Due to the rarity and uniqueness of Bengal cats compared to other domestic cats, the price is higher than average house cats. However, you will be pleased with the playful, non-violent personality of the beautiful Bengal. This means you need to decide on how much you are willing to spend on your Bengal before speaking with a breeder.
While the average range of a purebred Bengal cat is $1,500 – $3,500, Bengal kittens will likely cost much more. Buying a Bengal at a young age could cost you between $4,000 – $8,000. The high price makes choosing the right breeder crucial. Ask questions and meet in person with the breeder beforehand. Do not adopt from any breeders willing to sell the Bengal kitten before 12 weeks.
Cost of Long-Term Bengal Care
Of course, the cost of a pet does not stop at the adoption or purchase. It is essential to include vet bills, food, and shelter into your Bengal cat budget. Before you get your Bengal cat, decide how much you are willing to spend overall. Will your new furry friend be pampered or not? How much will you take care of their coat, teeth, and nutrition? Below is a general outline of what to expect.
Food Costs: $10 – $40 per month
Feeding your Bengal cat a protein-packed diet is going to be crucial. The kind of food you buy for it is up to you. Some owners go to a local butcher shop to pick up scraps of meat for their Bengals, others are always fine with a bowl of dry food available. A bridge between the two could be a can of wet cat food once per day or once per week.
Materials and Supplies:
$130 – $175 one-time cost
$35 – $40 per month
The initial cost of supplies for a Bengal cat goes toward things like a carrier, a bed, food and water bowls, and more. This price will go down if you already have a cat as most materials such as the litter box can be shared by multiple cats.
How much you choose to pamper your Bengal cat is up to you. Although they are known to be high maintenance, food, water, and a loving home are more than enough. If you do choose to spoil your cat a bit more, things like toys, nail clippers, and a brush could be a higher cost.
The ongoing material cost is cat litter. Depending on the brand and how much your cat uses, the price could change.
Healthcare: $650 – $3,000
Taking care of your Bengal cat’s health is essential. Initial costs to spay or neuter your cat as well as microchipping them could be around $650. However, life can be unpredictable.
Enjoy Your Bengal Cat
Although Bengal cats can be higher in price, that shouldn’t stop you from bringing one of these lovable animals into your home. At Spot Pet Insurance, we offer pet insurance plan options that can help cover your cat’s accidents and illnesses that happen unexpectedly through life’s twists and turns. This way, you have help focusing on loving your playful new friend. Reach out to us today for a free Pet Insurance Quote for your Bengal cat.
As Spot’s resident cat enthusiast, I am dedicated to researching and sharing information that helps pet owners take the best care of their pets. Pet ownership comes with it’s share of challenges, but my goal is to help make this journey easier.
“How to Budget for a Family Pet in Canada,” My Doh, https://www.mydoh.ca/learn/blog/lifestyle/how-to-budget-for-a-family-pet-in-canada, May 17, 2023.
“Annual Cost of Owning a Kitten,” OVMA, https://www.ovma.org/assets/1/6/CostOfCare%202021%20Feline.pdf, n.d.
"Pricing & Purchase Info," Wild Rose Bengals, https://www.wildrosebengals.ca/pricing--purchase-info.html, n.d.
