Would You Spend $125,000 on a Cat?
Some people invest in art. Others invest in real estate.
And a few drop six figures on a cat.
If that sounds unbelievable, let’s break it down. The cost of owning a cat can go well beyond a bag of kibble and a scratching post. If you are eyeing rare, exotic, or purebred cats, be ready to spend thousands. One hybrid breed has even sold for as much as $125,000.
Why are they so expensive?
It comes down to rarity, demand, complex breeding, and long term health care. Here is a look at the most expensive cat breeds in the world and what you are actually paying for when you take one home.
The 10 Most Expensive Cat Breeds
Here are the top 10 most expensive cat breeds, what they cost, and why.
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Most Expensive Cat Breeds
1. Ashera — $75,000–$125,000
The Ashera looks like something out of the wild. That’s because it basically is.
This breed combines African serval, Asian leopard cat, and domestic cat genetics. It’s massive, up to 18 kg, and comes with an exotic coat that screams status symbol.
Few breeders offer Asheras, and some experts argue it's not a distinct breed but a renamed Savannah. Either way, the price reflects exclusivity, limited supply, and the legal complexity of owning a wild domestic hybrid.
Source: Audrey Halfen I Spot Pet Insurance
2. Savannah — $1,500 - $25,000
Savannahs are one of the most recognized hybrid cat breeds.
They’re part African serval, part domestic cat. Early generation Savannahs (F1 F2) fetch the highest prices due to their size, spotted coats, and dog-like energy.
They’re tall, lean, and often banned or restricted due to their wild ancestry. These cats need space and attention, so they’re not ideal for casual pet owners.
Savannah cat
3. Khao Manee — $7,000–$11,000
The Khao Manee, native to Thailand, is known for its bright white coat and jewel toned eyes (often one blue, one gold). It's rare, elegant, and historically associated with Thai royalty.
These cats have soft fur, a sweet temperament, and a high price tag due to their rarity and limited breeding outside Asia.
4. African Serval — $3,000–$10,000
Servals aren’t domestic cats.
They’re wild animals that some people attempt to keep as pets (often illegally or with special permits). They have long legs, big ears, and striking spots.
While they cost less than hybrids like the Ashera, Servals are harder to own legally and require serious space and commitment. Definitely not a house cat.
African Serval
5. Ragdoll — $300–$7,500
Ragdolls are all fluff and charm.
Known for their soft coats and relaxed nature, they go limp when picked up, hence the name.
They’re social, easygoing, and incredibly popular. While not rare, high demand and slow maturation push prices up, especially for show quality kittens.
6. Sphynx — $1,500–$6,000
The Sphynx is instantly recognizable for its lack of fur and wrinkled skin.
First bred in Canada, this hairless breed needs regular bathing and extra warmth but offers loads of affection in return.
They’re costly to breed and require health testing to avoid issues common in hairless cats. That, plus their unique look, makes them a high end choice.
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Sphynx
7. Bengal — $1,000–$5,000
Bengals look like miniature leopards.
They’re athletic, intelligent, and full of personality. Bred from Asian leopard cats and domestic cats, modern Bengals no longer require wild ancestry to maintain their signature coats.
Some patterns, like rosettes or marble, are more desirable, and cats with strong markings tend to cost more.
8. Persian — $1,000–$5,000
Persians are classic lap cats.
With long hair, round faces, and gentle behavior, they’re a popular choice for people who want a calm beautiful companion.
But they aren’t low maintenance. Health testing for kidney and heart conditions, grooming needs, and small litter sizes all drive up the cost of reputable Persian kittens.
Persian Cat
9. Maine Coon — $200–$5,000
Maine Coons are big, gentle, and extremely popular.
As one of the largest domestic cat breeds, they need more food, care, and time to mature, raising the cost of breeding.
Responsible breeders test for hip dysplasia and heart issues. That, plus high demand, means you’ll pay more for a healthy well bred kitten.
10. British Shorthair — $500–$4,500
Round faces, big cheeks, and plush coats give British Shorthairs their signature look.
They’re calm, affectionate, and easy to live with.
Breeding challenges, like small litters and genetic testing for common health issues, raise their market price. They’re especially popular in Europe and among cat lovers who want a lower energy companion.
British Shorthair
So, Would You Spend $125,000 on a Cat?
That’s the going price for the Ashera, a controversial hybrid that may just be a rebranded Savannah.
Either way, it shows that in the world of exotic pets, cats are luxury items.
But whether you're buying a $300 kitten or a $30,000 designer cat, the cost doesn’t stop at the breeder. Factor in food, grooming, health care, and legal considerations—especially for hybrid breeds.
If you’re still thinking about it, ask yourself this: Is it about the breed or the bond?
Planning for High-Maintenance Pets? Your Finances Should Match.
Exotic cats aren’t your average pet—and your financial strategy shouldn’t be average either. If you’re managing luxury purchases like these, it’s time to align your wealth with your lifestyle.
Download your free guide to mastering taxes in retirement today!
Reference
Cats.com. (2024, March 3). 12 most expensive cat breeds in the world. Retrieved from https://cats.com/expensive-cat-breeds
Jagran Josh. (2023, January 23). The most expensive cat breeds in the world. Retrieved from https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/the-most-expensive-cat-breeds-in-the-world-1674467452-1
HowStuffWorks. (n.d.). 10 most expensive cat breeds. Retrieved from https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/most-expensive-cat.htm#:~:text=1.,and%20selective%20domestic%20cat%20breeds