Since pets, especially cats and dogs, are treated like family members, some cat lovers would spare no expense when it comes to acquiring a new feline. And some breeds of cats can be relatively expensive. Cats, irrespective of breed, are known to be adorable, affectionate, playful, and independent. However, some people desire one cat breed in particular with a unique look and personality. Because of their strong desire, these people can shell out a significant amount of cash just to get that particular cat breed. Felines possess unique physical characteristics that make some more expensive than others. Moreover, some cat breeds are more expensive in part because breeders have to pay many annual fees to stay in business.
What are the most expensive cat breeds in the United States?
- Savannah Cat: $1,000 and $20,000
- Bengal Cat: $4,000 – $10,000
- Khao Manee: $7,000–$11,000
- Sphynx: $1500 to $5,000
- Persian Cat: $1500 - $3000
- Toyger: $2000 - $3500
- Peterbald: $2,000
- Ragdoll: $800 to $3,500
- Siberian Cat: $1,200-$2,000
- Maine Coon Cat: $1,000 – $2,000
1. The Savannah Cat
- Average Lifespan: 12–15 years
The Savannah cat is the most expensive cat breed in the United States and probably the whole world. According to Litter Robot, a Savannah cat usually sells for between $1,000 and $20,000 in the United States. However, Savannah cats, which are bred from African servals, are considered 50% wild and therefore are illegal or not allowed without a permit in 10 plus U.S. states including Alaska, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Texas, and Vermont.
2. The Bengal Cat
- Average Lifespan: 12-16 years
In the United States, a pet Bengal kitten currently sells for $4,000 – $10,000, according to CatBreedsList. That is if you are purchasing from a good breeder. However, prices will depend on the cat that you're considering, the breeder and the quality, and the age.
3. The Khao Manee Cat
- Average Lifespan: 10-12 years
Also known as the Diamond Eye cat, the Khao Manee cat is expensive because it's rarer than most domesticated cat breeds. In the U.S., a Khao Manee Cat sells for up to $11,000, according to Daily Paws. Khao Manee Cats are known for having pure white coats and jewel-tone eyes.
4. The Sphynx Cat
- Average Lifespan: 8-14 years
As of September in the United State, a Sphynx cat from a good breeder costs between $1,500 and $5,000. Meanwhile, a show-quality Sphynx cat can sell for up to $10,000, according to Bubbly Pet. In addition, these hairless felines are also expensive to care for.
5. The Persian Cat
- Average Lifespan: 13.5 years
Persian cats are known to be affectionate, loyal, and quiet. These cats are expensive because they are purebred. In the U.S., a Persian kitten can cost you between $1300-$5000, depending on the breeder, heritage, and type. According to PetMD, Persian Cats make great pets but are a lot of work.
6. The Toyger Cat
- Average Lifespan: 12-15 years
The price of a pet Toyger cat from a good breeder in the United States ranges from $2000 - $3500 according to catbreedslist. As a new domestic cat breed, Toyger kittens' prices greatly depend on the quality, type, bloodline, marking, and breeder. Moreover, Toyger cats are playful, and intelligent and are not that expensive to care for, according to Hepper.
7. The Peterbald Cat
Like all the expensive cat breeds on this list, Peterbald cats aren't cheap. According to Daily Paws, a Peterbald Cat sells for up to 2000 US dollars. The breed is expensive because it's new and rare. Nevertheless, Peterbald cats are becoming increasingly popular due to their lovable personality and intelligence.
8. The Ragdoll Cat
- Average Lifespan: 9-15 years
The Ragdoll, one of the more popular cat breeds in the world, is known for its docile and gentle temperament. What is the price of a Ragdoll Cat in the United States? On average, a Ragdoll kitten will cost you anywhere from $800 to $3,500 (US Dollar), according to Ragdoll Cats World. However, the prices depend on a variety of factors including where you in the U.S. you live, the age and pedigree of the kitten, and the breeder’s reputation.
9. The Siberian Cat
- Average Lifespan: 10 to 18 years
Siberian Cats are known for their curiosity, intelligence, loyalty, sweetness, agility, and playfulness. On average, a Siberian cat sells for up $2,000 from a breeder in the U.S. On the other hand, an excellent pedigree Siberian cat from a reputable breeder will cost you between $2500 and $4000.
10. The Maine Coon Cat
- Average Lifespan: 12 – 15 years
As one of the largest cat breeds in the U.S. and the whole world, the Maine Coon is the tenth most expensive cat breed in America. What is the average price of a Maine Coon cat in the U.S.? On average, a good quality Maine Coon kitten will cost you anywhere between $1000 - $2000.