Most Expensive and Luxurious Cat Breeds in the World
Some cat breeds come with a high price tag, and the reasons go beyond appearance. Factors such as rare genetics, limited breeders, and links to wild species all contribute to driving up the cost. Many of these cats aren’t easy to find, and some require special care or permits to own.
Prices can range from a few thousand dollars to well over $20,000, depending on the breed and lineage. Here’s what makes each of them stand out, and why they cost so much.
Maine Coon ($1,200–$4,000)
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Breeders sell pet-quality Maine Coons starting from approximately $1,200, but large males from top bloodlines often cost more than $4,000. These cats don’t fully mature until they’re four or five years old, and males can reach over 20 pounds. Owners regularly groom their thick coats and often train them to walk on leashes or play fetch.
Peterbald ($1,400–$3,500)
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The Peterbald is rare, both in looks and availability. Owners often choose them for their clingy, vocal personalities. Prices usually range from $1,400 to $3,500, largely due to their scarcity outside select breeders in Russia, Europe, and a few U.S. programs. Depending on genetics, they may be completely hairless or carry a suede-like fuzz.
Persian ($1,500–$5,000)
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The Persian’s long coat and flat face didn’t happen by chance. Breeders selected them for appearance. The signature look requires daily grooming, routine eye wiping, and frequent vet care to manage respiratory issues. Most Persians from established breeders start at $1,500. Top-tier show lines with specific facial structure can reach $5,000.
Sphynx ($1,500–$5,000)
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Lack of fur doesn’t make them low-maintenance; Sphynx cats need regular bathing, warmth, and health screenings, especially for heart disease. Kittens from reputable breeders typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, with higher prices for lines that undergo regular genetic testing for conditions such as HCM. Their popularity stays steady, especially among owners who want constant companionship.
Bengal ($1,000–$5,000)
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Bengals resemble leopards but behave more like energetic housemates. Depending on their closeness to wild ancestry, they are often priced between $1,000 and $5,000. Pet owners appreciate their graceful movements.
African Serval ($3,000–$10,000)
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Breeders don’t domesticate Servals. They are still wildcats native to sub-Saharan Africa. They use their long legs and oversized ears to stalk prey and leap over ten feet vertically. Private owners must obtain exotic animal permits, build outdoor enclosures, and follow strict feeding protocols, which often involve feeding raw meat. Prices can fall anywhere between $3,000 and $10,000, excluding housing and veterinary costs.
Ragdoll ($7,500)
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Ragdolls have blue eyes, soft fur, and a calm nature that makes them easy to handle—they often go limp when picked up. They shed heavily and do best in quiet homes. Purebred kittens from top pedigrees can cost up to $7,500, and many breeders have waitlists for these high-demand cats.
Khao Manee ($7,000–$11,000)
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For centuries, Khao Manee cats were considered royal good-luck charms in Thailand. Their all-white coats and mismatched eyes made them symbols of prosperity, often passed between elite families. Today, there are few legitimate breeders, and bloodlines are carefully tracked. They’re social and lively, but because so few breeders exist, they’re hard to find. A purebred kitten can cost between $7,000 and $11,000.
Savannah ($20,000+)
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Savannah cats are a cross between African Servals and domestic cats. They are tall and lean with strong hunting instincts. Early generations, such as F1 and F2, can cost more than $20,000. They are intelligent and curious; many learn to open doors, get into cabinets, and outsmart their owners.
Ashera ($75,000–$125,000)
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Ashera cats were marketed as ultra-rare exotic hybrids and positioned in the luxury pet market as status animals. They were purported to be a cross between a serval, an Asian leopard cat, and domestic breeds. However, some DNA analyses show most were simply Savannah cats rebranded as “Asheras.” While listings often flaunted price tags of $75,000 to $125,000, there’s little verified evidence that any genuine sales ever reached those six-figure claims.