Most Expensive Cat Breeds in the World

If you thought designer dogs were expensive, wait until you see the price tags on these exceptionally expensive cat breeds.

There are a lot of different cat breeds, but the total number depends on who you ask. The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognizes 45 pedigree breeds of cats. The International Cat Association (TICA) recognizes 71.

And not all purebred cats are created equal. Some breeds are so rare that they’re worth hundreds, even thousands, of dollars.

These are the most expensive cats in the world.

29. Norwegian Forest Cat

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Notable characteristics: Exceptionally long, glossy fur in several gorgeous colors and patterns

Average price: Up to $700

Why Norwegian forest cats are so expensive: If you’re looking for the fluffiest cat breed you can buy, look no further. Norwegian forest cats have a long, glossy double coat, and it’s not just for show. The breed’s water-resistant fur is a reminder that the athletic Norwegian forest cat was bred to weather harsh winters, not laze around looking pretty.

They love to jump and climb, and owners are sometimes surprised to find their Norwegian forest cats perched atop bookshelves and fridges like happy, purring pillows.

Unlike the similarly fluffy ragdoll cat breed, Norwegian forest cats tend to remain energetic and playful well into their later years.

Fun Fact About the Norwegian Forest Cat

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With such long, lush fur, it’s no wonder the Norwegian forest cat’s homeland is proud of this unique, sturdy breed. They’re so proud, in fact, that they selected the Norwegian forest cat as the official cat breed of Norway.

They’re also said to be the inspiration behind some of Norway’s oldest myths, which refer to a large forest cat that lives in the mountains.

26. Egyptian Mau (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: A unique spotted coat

Average price: Up to $800

Why Egyptian maus are so expensive: The Egyptian mau is the only domesticated cat breed with spots that doesn’t originate from a wild hybrid cross. The medium-sized breed has a silky coat that comes in shades of silver, bronze and smoke.

The mau’s bright, wide eyes are always scanning the scene for entertainment, and the lively cat adores to chase laser pointers and play fetch.

Fun Fact About the Egyptian Mau

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The Egyptian mau might not be from Egypt at all. While the expensive breed does look uncannily like the felines pictured in Egyptian hieroglyphics, according to their DNA, they’re likely from Europe.

They nearly went extinct after World War II, but a Russian princess named Natalie Trubetskaya loved the breed so much that she established a cattery when she moved to New York City.

26. Korat (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: A blue coat and vibrant green eyes

Average price: Up to $800

Why Korat cats are so expensive: With a look similar to that of the Russian blue, the Korat is one of the oldest cat breeds. In Thailand, where the breed originated from, Korats are often given in pairs as wedding gifts, symbolizing good luck and a happy marriage.

It’s not hard to spot why Korats have such a devoted following. The breed’s blue, silver-tipped fur is showstopping, and their captivating green eyes are just as striking.

This expensive cat is also said to have “five hearts,” referring to their real heart plus their heart-shaped head, top of head, nose and chest.

Fun Fact About the Korat Cat

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In their native land of Thailand, Korats are known as Si-Sawat. That means “the color of the sawat seed.”

The gray felines sometimes have amber or golden eyes as kittens that gradually turn green.

26. Selkirk Rex (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: Long, curly fur

Average price: Up to $800

Why Selkirk rex cats are so expensive: It’s a sheep. It’s an alpaca. No, it’s a Selkirk rex cat. The Selkirk rex is known for its shockingly long, curly fur and teddy bear looks. While the curly fur gene is dominant, Selkirks have fur that ranges from straight or wavy to tightly curled.

The fun doesn’t stop there. The Selkirk rex’s personality is energetic and vivacious. Most Selkirks will gladly play with kids and even dogs, so long as they’re given a little respect.

Just don’t adopt a Selkirk if you consider brushing a cat to be boring. Their fur can quickly become matted without proper care.

Fun Fact About the Selkirk Rex

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Some people call the Selkirk rex a “cat with a bad hair day” because of their curls, even though not all Selkirk rex’s have curly coats.

Despite their unusual appearance, their curls are relatively low-maintenance. Just brush them using a wide-toothed comb once every week or so, and they should take care of the rest themselves.

23. Siamese (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: Blue eyes, a pointed coat and a dog-like personality

Average price: Up to $1,000

Why Siamese cats are so expensive: As sophisticated as they look, Siamese cats are massive chatterboxes. With bright blue eyes and a pointed coat, Siamese cats have been around for centuries.

When the breed originated in Thailand (formerly called Siam), seal pointed cats were the most popular. Later, the breed’s standards evolved to accept Siamese cats in shades of chocolate, blue and lilac as well.

Siamese cats are affectionate and vocal. They’re like the huskies of the cat world, so prepare for daily debates about wet food and treats.

Fun Fact About Siamese Cats

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The coloration of Siamese cats depends in part on their body temperature. They have a unique modifier gene that prevents pigment from developing in their coats. This results in albinism, but only if their body temperature remains between 100 and 102.5 degrees.

If their body temperature drops lower than that or if they live in a chilly climate, the genes turn back on and color appears. This is why a Siamese cat’s extremities, which are usually cooler than the rest of their body, are more highly pigmented.

23. Devon Rex (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: An angular face with huge eyes and large, pointed ears

Average price: Up to $1,000

Why Devon rex cats are so expensive: The Devon rex boasts a look all its own. The fine-boned cat has gigantic low-set ears that give the kitty an elf-like appearance. And its cheekbones? They’re so defined they could cut glass. The Devon rex has sleek, wavy fur, with a texture shared only with the Selkirk rex.

The breed’s unique coat has earned it the nickname “the poodle cat.” The name fits, as Devons are typically playful, people-oriented and extremely cuddly.

The Devon rex also sheds less than many other breeds, making it an excellent choice for cat lovers coping with allergies.

Fun Fact About the Devon Rex

Devon rex kitten falling asleep while being brushed by happy woman

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The lovely Devon rex breed is just as delicate as it appears. Even though it’s not a hairless cat, the thin, wavy coat of the Devon rex is devoid of protective guard hairs that are found in most other cat breeds.

Without guard hairs, the breed is prone to getting sunburned if they are allowed to spend significant time outdoors. That’s why experts recommend that the Devon rex be kept as an indoor-only pet.

23. Maine Coon (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: Their large size and friendly nature

Average price: Up to $1,000

Why Maine coons are so expensive: The Maine coon is a large, snuggly cat that loves to play. Maine coons are the largest domestic cats recorded, occasionally reaching up to 40 inches in length.

Maine coon owners adore them for their outgoing personalities and patient dispositions. They’re large, but they’re gentle giants, tolerant of young children and playful puppies. The breed almost disappeared at one point, but Maine coons were named the fifth-most popular cat breed by the Cat Fanciers’ Association in 2019.

Prices vary, but cat lovers can expect to spend between $400 and $1,500 for a Maine coon kitten, with show-quality cats leaning toward the more expensive end of the scale.

Fun Fact About Maine Coon Cats

Woman stroking young red ginger Maine coon kitten

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The Maine coon is, unsurprisingly, the state cat of Maine. The giant breed is excellent at catching mice, and they’re also surprisingly good swimmers compared to most felines.

21. American Wirehair (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: A dense, wiry coat that can be curly

Average price: Up to $1,200

Why American wirehairs are so expensive: The American wirehair has a lovable personality that’s hard not to fall in love with.

The characteristic that sets this expensive cat breed apart from the rest, however, is its strange, wiry coat. The American wirehair’s coat is dense, coarse and crimped. The texture feels more like wool than fur. If you look closely, even the wirehair’s whiskers are crimped.

The American wirehair’s unusual fur is not genetically tied to the coats of the similarly textured Cornish rex or Devon rex. In a class all its own, the wirehair is known for being chatty and friendly, but also fairly independent. Pet a wirehair in just the right spot, and you’ll be rewarded with a deep, enthusiastic purr.

Fun Fact About the American Wirehair

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Purchasing an American wirehair is harder than it sounds. In 2017, the Cat Fancier Association named the American wirehair as the rarest breed of cat out of 41 different registered breeds.

21. American Curl (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: Rounded ears that curl backward and long, silky fur

Average price: Up to $1,200

Why American curls are so expensive: Thanks to a naturally occurring genetic mutation, the American curl has unusually shaped ears that curl backward. The mutation first appeared in a black stray kitten named Shulamith, and the trait was passed down to today’s generation of American curls.

According to owners, these expensive cats are well worth the price. American curls are amazing with kids and love people, greeting owners with an affectionate nuzzle when they get home from work.

The American curl is a quiet breed, but he’s more than capable of asking for attention without the loud meows of more gregarious Velcro breeds.

Fun Fact About the American Curl

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When an American curl is born, you’d have no idea they are not an ordinary domestic cat. That’s because their ears are straight until a few days after birth, fully curling by about four months of age.

Some cats end up with curlier ears than others, with a 90-180 degree curve required for show-quality cats.

20. Ragdoll

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Notable characteristics: An exceptionally soft, pointed coat, blue eyes, and a puppy-like personality

Average price: Up to $1,300

Why ragdolls are so expensive: The ragdoll is one of the youngest expensive cat breeds. It wasn’t invented until the 1960 by breeder Ann Baker. When she found a particularly floppy, docile cat near her home in Riverside, California, she wondered if the trait was genetic. As it turns out, it was. Several of the cat’s offspring were equally floppy, earning the breed the name “ragdoll.”

While every ragdoll’s personality is different, many ragdoll cats will go limp when picked up, even when cradled like a baby. These snuggle monsters prefer to be close to their favorite humans at all times, gladly cuddling up on laps and sleeping on beds.

Some of them will even play fetch like dogs.

Fun Fact About Ragdoll Cats

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All ragdoll cats have striking blue eyes. If you purchase or adopt a longhaired cat with hints of green or gold in their eyes, they’re not a purebred ragdoll. There’s also a rumor that blue-eyed cats are deaf.

While deafness is more common in cats with blue eyes, this primarily applies to pure white cats, not pointed cats like ragdolls.

18. Pixie-Bob (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: Pointed ears and a bobcat-like coat

Average price: Up to $1,500

Why Pixie-bobs are so expensive: Anyone who’s married to the idea of having a friendly, miniature version of a wildcat in their living room should prepare their wallets for a major blow. Pixie-bobs are one of the lower-priced designer cat breeds, but with a price tag that rarely drops below $1,000, they’re still expensive cats.

The Pixie-bob is a large, stocky cat that bears a resemblance to wild bobcats. They behave just like ordinary house cats, however, aside from their obsession with water. Some Pixie-bobs even like to swim.

These easy-going household cats can sometimes be born with extra toes, and it’s common enough that up to seven toes per paw is permitted by the breed standard.

Fun Fact About the Pixie-Bob

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Pixie-bob cats were once rumored to originate from real wild bobcats. Despite their wild appearance, scientists have studied their DNA and confirmed that they are fully domesticated cats with no wild crosses.

18. Ocicat (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: A wild-looking, leopard-like appearance

Average price: Up to $1,500

Why ocicats are so expensive: A cat named Dalai Dotson, an Abyssinian-Siamese mix, was the the first member of the ocicat breed. This expensive cat breed was dubbed the “ocicat” because its spots resemble that of the wild ocelot. In personality, however, ocicats are completely tame.

They’re more of an active, athletic breed than a couch cat, but they respond well to training and can learn tons of tricks. Some ocicats come when called, and many of them beg for food like puppies.

Fun Fact About the Ocicat

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Like most other wild-looking pet cat breeds, the ocicat was created through decades of selective breeding.

Initially, all ocicats were ivory. Later, breeders developed 12 different color combinations, with silver being the most coveted and wild-looking variety.

17. Japanese Bobtail

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Notable characteristics: Unusual short tails

Average price: Up to $1,600

Why Japanese bobtails are so expensive: Before you start to worry, this expensive kitty’s tail isn’t docked. That’s just how the Japanese bobtail is born. They have short, kinked tails, much like that of a potbellied pig.

They’re outgoing and athletic, making wonderful family pets. They love to play and often captivate guests with their antics. They’re easier to train than many cat breeds, thanks to their intelligence and curiosity, and their short coats are very low-maintenance.

Since they’re still very uncommon in the United States, their prices range from around $600–$1,600 when purchased from a reputable breeder.

Fun Fact About the Japanese Bobtail

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What the Japanese bobtail lacks in tail length, it makes up for with hunting skills.

Japan once had a major rodent issue. Rumor has it that when Japanese authorities noticed what a good hunter the Japanese bobtail was, they released several onto the streets to handle the problem nature’s way.

The breed then became known as the street cat of Japan.

12. Munchkin Cat (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: Short legs and rounded, kitten-like features

Average price: Up to $2,000

Why Munchkin cats are so expensive: If you ever feel self-conscious about your height, remember: You’re not short. You’re expensive. Just take it from the Munchkin cat, one of the top 20 most expensive cats you can buy.

Munchkin cats are like the dachshunds of the cat world, bred to have short, stumpy legs and a silky, semi-long coat.

Munchkin cats can melt even the Grinch’s heart with their wide eyes and attentive expression, and they’re notoriously curious. Don’t be surprised if you discover a secret stash of shiny things under the couch.

Fun Fact About the Munchkin Cat

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The first modern Munchkin cat was named Blackberry, who gave birth to a tiny kitten named Toulouse, who inherited her short legs.

The breed was named after the small, jolly characters who helped Dorothy find her way through the Land of Oz.

12. Siberian (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: A thick triple-layered coat to protect against icy temperatures

Average price: Up to $2,000

Why Siberians are so expensive: Wow, that’s a lot of fur. The appropriately named Siberian is Russia’s native forest cat. The breed has been around for more than 1,000 years, and it evolved to survive the country’s frigid northern temperatures. The medium-sized cat has so much fur that appears much larger than it is. Its coat actually has three layers.

Siberians are unusual in that they take several years to reach maturity, unlike most breeds which are full-grown in a year or two. They’re very affectionate and playful, and many Siberians are mesmerized by water.

Just leave the faucet dripping and enjoy the show.

Fun Fact About Siberians

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Take one look at the Siberian cat’s coat and anyone would know the cozy creature doesn’t belong in the desert. Because of their warm fur, they’re not fans of excessively hot environments.

While they can tolerate a warm day here and there, don’t get a Siberian cat if you live in the middle of Arizona, unless you have incredible A/C.

12. British Shorthair (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: A dense, plush coat and rounded features

Average price: Up to $2,000

Why British shorthairs are so expensive: The British shorthair looks like a Scottish fold, only without the fold part. The solidly built breed can be reserved around new faces, but they melt into affectionate, laidback housecats with those they know and trust. Their dense coat is lower maintenance than long-haired breeds, but this expensive cat should still be brushed two or three times a week.

A British shorthair isn’t usually a lap cat, but they usually lounge around near their owners to keep them company. Blue is the most common British shorthair color, giving the breed the nickname the “British blue.”

If you’re looking for a more outgoing pet, consider adopting a male British shorthair. Females can also be excellent pets, but they tend to be more independent.

Fun Fact About the British Shorthair

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While British shorthairs are prized, in part, for their round faces and soft, chubby appearance, the breed has a higher risk of becoming obese than most other cat breeds.

No one is sure why, but owners should be extra vigilant about giving British shorthairs lots of playtime and not overfeeding them.

12. Sphynx (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: Their almost total lack of fur

Average price: Up to $2,000

Why sphynx cats are so expensive: It goes without saying that the sphynx cat’s hairless physique is its most distinctive feature.

While sphynx cats do have peach fuzz, the medium-sized cat looks completely hairless. Petting one is like petting a fresh peach that likes to take naps next to you during movie nights.

The sphynx cat’s wrinkles might give it a bit of a grumpy, serious appearance, but the breed is actually very sweet-tempered and likes to keep owners company.

Fun Fact About Sphynx Cats

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Shockingly, sphynx cats come from Canada. They were the result of a genetic mutation in a kitten born in Ontario in the mid-1960s, although additional hairless kittens were also born in the 1970s in Toronto and Minnesota.

Their combined lineages helped the breed evolve into the popular breed it is today, even in the chilly weather up north. Sphynx cats in Canada must need cozy sweaters to keep them warm in winter.

12. Singapura (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: Its miniature size and unusual sepia-toned coat

Average price: Up to $2,000

Why Singapuras are so expensive: A diminutive breed weighing no more than eight pounds, the Singapura is the smallest domestic cat breed on record. With their unusual, almost completely round eyes and signature sepia-toned coat, the Singapura doesn’t bear much resemblance to any other cat breed. Their light eyes are even rimmed with black, resembling built-in eyeliner.

The Singapura might seem delicate, but don’t be fooled. This expensive breed packs tons of energy into its compact figure, climbing and exploring beside you while you go about the housework.

They’re great with kids and other pets as long as the noise levels stay on the low side. They’re so sensitive to loud sounds that it’s best not to adopt one if you live in a busy city with lots of sirens and horns.

Fun Fact About Singapuras

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While Singapuras don’t like loud noises, they’re a tad hypocritical. The tiny cats are very vocal themselves, chatting with owners round the clock.

Fortunately, their meows are soft and pleasant sounding, but if you can’t stand a chatty cat, the Singapura is not the breed for you.

11. Abyssinian

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Notable characteristics: An angular, wedge-shaped head and large almond-shaped eyes

Average price: Up to $2,200

Why Abyssinian cats are so expensive: This expensive breed is extremely intelligent and has boundless curiosity. Owners sometimes call Abyssinians “Aby-grabbys” because of their tendency to paw at anything that piques their interest. Lots of puzzle toys and cat furniture are a must with an Abyssinian.

Their “ticked” coat, which has stripes running up and down every single hair shaft, looks similar to a miniature cougar, particularly in fawn-colored Abyssinians. They also come in shades of red, blue and brown.

Abyssinians are very active felines, but they might settle down next to you on the coach once in a while if you’re lucky.

Fun Fact About the Abyssinian Cat

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According to VetStreet, the Abyssinian is one of the five most popular cat breeds in the United States. Their energetic, kitten-like behavior is eerily similar to that of a dog.

Abyssinians can even get depressed if their owners don’t give them enough attention.

9. Russian Blue (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: A signature blue-gray coat and bright green eyes

Average price: Up to $3,000

Why Russian blues are so expensive: Russian blue cats are slender, elegant and athletic, but the breed’s plush double coat is the real showstopper.

If the name of the breed didn’t give it away, the Russian blue only comes in blue-gray, accented by sparkling, peridot green eyes. In addition to their good looks, the Russian blue is hypoallergenic and is known for being an even-tempered, loyal cat.

Russian blues have been known to choose a favorite human in the house and follow them everywhere. If a Russian blue chooses you as its person, consider it a privilege.

Fun Fact About the Russian Blue

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While the Russian blue is known for its rich blue coat, their fur actually comes in several shades of gray, ranging from a pale silver to dark slate blue.

Their fur is so thick that some owners claim you can trace your name in it.

9. Scottish Fold (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: Small folded ears with rounded tips, and a lush, dense coat

Average price: Up to $3,000

Why Scottish folds are so expensive: The Scottish fold’s adorable, folded ears have been the subject of controversy, but the expensive cats have remained popular thanks to their endearing features and loving personality.

The breed originated from a spontaneous gene mutation in a domestic cat in Scotland, and all Scottish folds can trace their lineage back to that original folded-ear kitty.

They’re a heavy-boned breed with a sturdy build and large round eyes. Their coat is very dense and even, and while it comes in all colors and patterns, blue is the most prized.

A Fun Fact About the Scottish Fold

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As cute as Scottish fold cats are, they should never be bred with each other. The genetic mutation that causes their folded ears also causes changes to the cartilage in other areas of the body.

When they’re bred with each other, the offspring is likely to inherit significant genetic disorders that may be debilitating.

6. Minskin (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: Short legs and a stocky body

Average price: Up to $5,000

Why Minskins are so expensive: Is it a sphynx cat? Or is it a Munchkin? The answer is yes, both. Cat breeder Paul McSorley began creating the Minskin breed in the 1990s. He hoped to design a cat that had points of fur, similar to the darker patches of fur on cats with color-pointed coats.

He achieved this in 2000 by combining genes from the sphynx cat, Munchkin cats, Burmese cats and Devon rex cats. The name Minskin is a mashup of the words “miniature” and “skin.” The name fits, with the Minskin resembling a furless corgi with big round eyes.

They’re very affectionate, but owners need to know a thing or two about kitty skin care before bringing this expensive cat breed home.

Fun Fact About the Minskin

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The first standard Minskin cat was born in 2000, named “TRT I am Minskin Hear Me Roar.” The wordy name was later shortened to just Rory.

Five years later, the breeder registered 50 more Minskins with the International Cat Association, which named them a preliminary breed in 2008.

6. Toyger (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: A wild-looking striped coat

Average price: Up to $5,000

Why toygers are so expensive: Forget designer dogs and check out this designer cat. The toyger cat has tiger-like black stripes layered over a vibrant orange background, but the breed is completely domesticated. It has an outgoing, friendly personality that works well in homes with kids, dogs and other cats.

These baby tigers are smart, and some owners have trained them to walk on leashes like dogs. This breed truly is one of a kind, with circular markings on its head, which no other breed in the world has.

Fun Fact About the Toyger

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The mighty Toyger was first created by breeder Judy Sugden to raise awareness about endangered tigers in the wild. She wasn’t the first in her family to get involved in cat breeding, either.

She’s the granddaughter of Jean Mill, the breeder who developed another expensive cat breed, the Bengal cat.

6. Peterbald (Tie)

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Notable characteristics: Massive ears, an exceptionally short coat and a dog-like personality

Average price: Up to $5,000

Why Peterbalds are so expensive: The Peterbald breed, a Russian cat known for being remarkably affectionate and attached to their owners, is a newer expensive cat breed. It began in the 1990s when Russian breeder Olga S. Mironova mixed a sphynx cat with an Oriental shorthair.

The wrinkly skinned cats have varying amounts of fur and long, webbed front paws that allow them to hold toys with more dexterity than most toddlers.

The unusual breed is very popular in Russia, but it’s still extremely uncommon to find one in the U.S.

Fun Fact About the Peterbald Cat

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While we described Peterbald cats as having “various amounts of fur,” the breed standard is much more specific than that.

There are five variations of the Peterbald coat, including bald, flock, velour, brush and straight. Straight, which is a normal length short coat, indicates that the hair loss gene isn’t present at all.

5. Persian

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Notable characteristics: Long, soft fur and a flat nose with doll-like features

Average price: Up to $5,500

Why Persians are so expensive: When you picture a villain calmly stroking the lush, long fur of a pure white cat, the cat you’re picturing is probably a Persian. Persian cats have one of the most beautiful coats found in domestic cats, which has made the Persian the most popular purebred cat in North America.

The Persian come in two different versions: show and traditional. The show Persian has more exaggerated features and is much more expensive, but the traditional Persian is better kept as a pet.

Also known as the doll face, the traditional Persian has a nose of normal length that helps to avoid many of the health problems that spring up in brachycephalic (short-faced) dog and cat breeds. The personality of both types is that of a sweet and snuggly lap cat.

Fun Fact About Persians

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Even though white is the most common shade pictured, Persian cats come in tons of different colors including black, lilac, chocolate, red, cream and white. All of these colors also come in different patterns.

The Persian’s face also comes in different styles, including show quality, doll face and pet quality. While show-quality Persians are more expensive, pet-quality Persians are a better choice for anyone concerned about ethical breeding practices.

They have the most substantial nose of any Persian variety, resulting in fewer breathing issues as the cat ages.

4. Bengal

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Notable characteristics: Leopard-like spots and round, green eyes

Average price: Up to $10,000

Why Bengals are so expensive: Bengals may be the most popular and most attainable wild-looking cat on this list. The breed is a hybrid of domestic cats and leopard cats, retaining many of the distinctive features of its wild ancestors with the addition of a lovable, pet-like personality.

We said pet-like because owning a Bengal is nothing like owning a laidback lap cat. Bengals love to climb and will attempt to scale the furniture to reach the highest point in the house.

They’re endlessly entertaining, but they also require more exercise and mental stimulation than an average cat to keep them out of trouble.

Fun Fact About Bengals

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Every cat breed has different proportions, and the Bengal cat has longer hind legs than front legs.

They also have very large eyes compared to their small heads, giving them a distinctive, athletic look.

3. Khao Manee

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Notable characteristics: A pure white coat and brightly colored eyes

Average price: Up to $11,000

Why Khao Manees are so expensive: Khao Manee cats originated in Thailand, where the breed is believed to bring good luck. The muscular, pure white cat loves people and makes an excellent pet, but their eyes are what attracts the most attention.

Their eyes can be blue, green, yellow, amber or anything in between. The most prized Khao Manee phenotype is the odd-eyed version, in which one eye is blue and the other is green.

Fun Fact About the Khao Manee

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The breed is often born with a small dark mark on the top of the head, but it usually disappears as the cat reaches maturity.

Khao Manees are mostly very healthy, but as an all-white cat they are more prone to deafness than more colorful breeds. Blue-eyed white cats are the most likely to have hearing problems, but many of them have no hearing issues at all.

2. Savannah

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Notable characteristics: A spotted coat, large ears, and an affectionate personality

Average price: Up to $25,000

Why Savannahs are so expensive: The more recent a domestic cat breed’s connection with wild cats, the more expensive it tends to be. Creating a new cat breed that’s both wild in appearance but tame in behavior isn’t easy, so we don’t blame the breeders too much.

Savannah cats are a perfect example of this. They’re a hybrid breed combining Siamese genes with those of a wild serval. The result is a graceful, tall cat with large pointed ears, a friendly demeanor and a stunning, spotted coat.

They can grow up to 17 inches tall and weigh 25 pounds, although later generations are usually smaller. Savannahs are athletic cats who love to climb. Socialization is a must, but Savannah cats can easily become devoted Velcro cats to humans they trust.

Fun Fact About Savannah Cats

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You already know Savannah cats are unusually tall, but their height is more exceptional than you might initially realize.

This expensive breed has held the Guinness record of world’s tallest domestic cat since 2006.

1. The Ashera

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Notable characteristics: The most wild appearance ever seen in a domestic cat and an extremely friendly personality

Average price: Up to $125,000

Why Asheras are so expensive: There’s a lot of debate surrounding the astoundingly expensive Ashera cat. The breed was invented by a company named Lifestyle Pets, which selectively bred an African wild cat and an Asian leopard, then mixed in domestic cat genes. According to Lifestyle Pets, anyway.

The least expensive Ashera cat sold so far was around $17,000, with the most expensive reaching well over $100,000.

Despite their wild appearance, Ashera cats have the personalities of laid-back house cats. They also come in hypoallergenic forms if you’re willing to tack on another few thousand dollars. Lifestyle Pets stopped producing these cats in June of 2008, so they’re extremely rare.

Fun Fact About the Ashera

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The controversial Ashera cat was originally produced in four different varieties: common, hypoallergenic, snow and royal. The common and hypoallergenic varieties look identical, with the latter simply producing less dander.

The snow Ashera is mostly white with patches of amber, while the royal Ashera is cream colored with vibrant black and orange stripes and spots.