Cats are one of the best companions for humans. And no – as opposed to popular belief, they are not arrogant, moody, or unaffectionate! Cats can be very cuddly and friendly if given an appropriate environment. What most people don’t understand is that different breeds of cats have different temperaments. And to make them happy and like their ‘hoomans’, you need to adjust to their personality and take care of their needs. If you don’t, then even the most expensive cat breeds will misbehave. A happy cat, contrarily, will shower endless affection on its owner!
And while it’s true that all feline babies are equally precious and deserve all the love in the world, some might be more luxurious. There are so many exotic varieties of cats present in the world.
People like to adopt these rare breeds of cats for various reasons – mostly as a show of wealth and status. We don’t encourage using pets to display wealth but that doesn’t mean these cute, yet exotic cats should be ignored.
So here are the top 12 most expensive cats in the world that you can find in 2024. Consider making them a part of your family!
Adopt Vs. Shop
Adopting a cat or pet should always be a priority because there are so many homeless animals that need a home. That said, if you fell in love at first sight with a specific cat breed – we can’t blame you! It is not wrong to want to bring home your real love.
The problem arises when people neglect rescued animals and shop for purebred, not knowing that animal shelters also house abandoned pets. Some of these might just be what you want! They are already trained, neutered, and eligible for pet insurance coverage.
Sure enough, you won’t find the most expensive cat breeds at your local shelter. But we guarantee that whichever baby you choose to give a new life to, will forever be grateful and loving towards you! So consider ADOPT, DON’T SHOP, and visit your local animal rescue shelter for a pet.
Top 15 Most Expensive Cat Breeds and Their Temperaments – Which One is Perfect for You?
Having a pet is a life-changing decision. The benefits of adopting a pet are numerous but it’s also a long-term commitment.
A pet will not only help you get over a breakup but also be the most loving companion you can ever need. So check out our shortlist of the most expensive cat breeds in the world to see if there are any you like!
15. The Siamese
| Average Weight | 6 to 14 lbs |
| Lifespan | 15 to 20 years |
| Price | $200 to $2,000 |
Ancestry
Originating from Thailand in around the 14th century, it was considered a royal cat. Due to its distinct appearance, it was beloved by royal families and held high regard in temples, etc. The Siamese became very popular in Europe and America in the 19th century.
Characteristics
Her special appearance marks this beautiful cat. Mostly present in silver-grey colors with darker legs, tail, ears, and face. The blue eyes give her a very sleek look. A healthy Siamese weighs about 4-5 Kg with a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years.
Temperament
Siamese is known to be an extremely talkative cat breed. She’s very vocal about everything so be prepared to hear her constant meowing.
She’ll give you feedback on everything from enjoying her meals and asking for attention to being dissatisfied with her sleeping arrangement. Otherwise, she’s very loving, loyal, and good with children.
Perfect For?
The Siamese is low maintenance. She doesn’t have any health issues and requires care and upkeep normally for any domestic cat. She’s perfect for families with children who want a friendly cat.
14. Scottish Fold
| Average Weight | Males: 9 to 13 lbs – Females: 6 to 9 lbs |
| Lifespan | 14 to 16 years |
| Price | $300 to $500 |
Ancestry
It was first spotted in 1961 in Scotland and was bred by a local farmer when he noticed the unusual folded ears on a cat. Since then, it has become one of the US’s most coveted cats due to its sad-looking appearance and dog-like ears.
Characteristics
The Scottish fold is recognized by its notable ears that are perpetually folded downwards.
Temperament
These cats are very energetic and social. They love to seek attention by doing various cute things that you’d find adorable.
Perfect For?
It is a family cat that thrives in an environment with lots of people. Households with children will love these cats.
You might have to invest a lot in buying the best gifts for this cat though as it lobes toys! Although, they are also prone to deafness and degenerative joint tissue disorders so expect a lot of vet visits.
13. Persian Cats
| Average Weight | 7 to 12 lbs |
| Lifespan | 15 to 20 years |
| Price | $300 to $1,800 |
Ancestry
Persian cats are considered to be one of the oldest cat breeds in the world. Their origin dates back to the 1600s.
Characteristics
Long Flowy hair and a flat face are the features that make Persian cats so recognizable. They are present in a large variety of beautiful colors like smoke, gold, silver tabby, pointer, calico, etc. They use their big, round, expressive eyes to communicate.
Temperament
Persian cats have sweet and gentle personalities. They are very quiet but will woo you with their melodious voice. As opposed to British Shorthair, these cats love to lounge around and be pampered. Forget about taking them on a walk as they can’t be bothered.
Perfect For?
Persian cats are high-maintenance cats. Their beautiful flowy hair requires daily combing and frequent washing to keep looking magnificent.
You’ll also need to take them for professional grooming at least once every two months. Because of their flat face and shortened nasal passage, they are prone to breathing and eating issues.
So keep in mind that you’ll need to make frequent trips to the vet if you want a Persian cat. However, if you’re willing to dedicate a lot of time and effort to this glamorous cat, they’ll be one of your sweetest and most chill companions.
12. Maine Coon
| Average Weight | 11 to 25 lbs |
| Lifespan | 13 to 14 years |
| Price | $650 to $2,000 |
Ancestry
It’s speculated to be a descendant of the Norwegian Forest Cat or Mary Antoinette’s Angora Cat. Maine Coon evolved in the extreme winters of the Northeastern US through natural breeding.
Characteristics
This is a big cat, measuring 3 ft. in length. It also has large ears and snowshoe paws. The most distinct characteristic, although, is her three-layer coat that makes her suitable for cold places. You’ll never really hear her meow.
Instead, you’ll hear a chirp or trill – a combination of both meow and purr, that’s also a recognizable trait of Maine Coon cats.
Temperament
It is friendly and loves to play with its human family members. It also loves water so taking a bath is not a problem!
Perfect For?
Maine Coons are low maintenance but they tend to be expensive. They are an ideal companion for people living in cold places as they can withstand extreme winters without getting sick.
11. Russian Blue Cat
| Average Weight | 7 to 15 lbs |
| Lifespan | 15 to 20 Years |
| Price | $800 to $2,000 |
Ancestry
The Blue Russian cats, or Archangel Blues, have the ancestral background of Russia. They are associated with the royal families of Russia, but the exact origin is unclear due to their long history.
Characteristics
Their coat color can vary from light silver to bluish-grey. Yellow and green eyes that stand out from other breeds.
Temperamen
These are loyal cats that are not clingy but affectionate and loving. They may appear shy at first, but as they become friendlier toward you, they become incredibly playful.
Perfect For?
People who work for long hours, new adopters, first-time parents, and large families with kids.
10. British Shorthair
| Average Weight | Males: 9 to 17 lbs – Females: 7 to 12 lbs |
| Lifespan | 14 to 20 years |
| Price | $800 to $3,000 |
Ancestry
This is the oldest known English breed of cats and traces its ancestry back to ancient Rome where it was in demand because of its hunting abilities.
Characteristics
Bluecoat is the most common characteristic of British Shorthair. However, they also come in a range of other colors and luxurious coats. It’s a relatively small cat as compared to others on this list.
Temperament
Known for its clumsiness and childlike playfulness, this cat breed remains a kitten at heart. They mature slowly so you’ll have a kitten for a longer time. These cats are also very easygoing and adaptable.
Perfect For?
Anyone who wants a playful mate in their life! These cute kitten-like cat breeds will keep you entertained. As they are trainable, you can take them on walks or do easy exercises in the park. They are also friendly to other pets such as rabbits, dogs, and birds.
9. Ragdoll
| Average Weight | Males: 12 to 20 lbs – Females: 8 to 15 lbs |
| Lifespan | 13 to 18 years |
| Price | $800 to $3,500 |
Ancestry
We can trace her lineage back to California in the 1960s as the baby of a white street cat with long hair and a black and white cat with mittens.
Characteristics
Weighing at 15-20 lbs. This cat has blue eyes and an oval face with ears. Accompanied by legs and a tail that are darker in color than the rest of the body. All kittens of this breed are born white without any pattern which they develop later in 2 weeks.
Temperament
This is a highly affectionate cat breed. As the name suggests, it has a tendency to go limp when cuddling with her favorite hooman. Ragdolls love to be picked up and played with.
Perfect For?
Anyone who wants an outdoor cat like Ragdolls is quite adventurous and loves to travel. If you’re a lone traveler who doesn’t want to be lonely anymore, take this cat for drives on the most scenic best driving roads in US!
Just make sure you know the tricks of how to travel with a cat. Also, they’re pretty good with dogs too. So dog households can also keep this kind of cat.
Read Also: Globetrotting Tips
8. The Bengal Cat
| Average Weight | 8 to 15 lbs |
| Lifespan | 12 to 16 years |
| Price | $800 to $10,000 |
Ancestry
Bengal cats are born when an Egyptian Mau is bred to an Asian Leopard cat. They are the only domesticated cats with rosette markings, which serve as camouflage in the wild.
Characteristics
Their rosette markings make them look wild. The Bengal cats generally weigh around 15 lbs. And are very muscular. They also have a broad head and large round paws.
Temperament
Bengal Cats are highly active and energetic cats. They love playing and spend most of their time running around and chasing small things. This cute cat breed also has predatory tendencies so keep your pet fishes, hamsters and birds away from them.
Moreover, they are talkative as well which means having a Bengal Cat in your home is going to be chaotic and loud. But they are extremely intelligent and will listen to you if you try to communicate with them.
Perfect For?
This breed is very strong as far as health issues are concerned. They don’t require regular grooming either. However, because they are highly energetic, you’ll need to invest in a good cat play area for them.
As long as they have an outlet to be themselves and spend their energy, they’ll be happy and healthy. Bengal cats are high maintenance in this way.
7. Egyptian Mau
| Average Weight | 8 to 12 lbs |
| Lifespan | 9 to 13 years |
| Price | $1,000 to $1,500 |
Ancestry
As the name suggests, this cat breed traces its origins back to ancient Egypt where it was worshipped as a god.
Characteristics
Egyptian Mau is naturally spotted and is only present in limited colors such as bronze, black, silver, and smoky hues. The shiny coat has spots that only appear on top of the fur. It has green eyes with ears that are widely spaced apart. The most prominent characteristic of this breed is its agility. It can run very fast, up to 30mph, and has a rotatory gallop similar to that of a cheetah.
Temperament
Only Friendly to its hoomans, Egyptian Mau is wary of strangers. But once you get their trust, be prepared for lots of cuddles!
Perfect For?
This cat is also low maintenance as compared to some others on this list of the most expensive cat breeds. It’s ideal for anyone who wants a feline companion.
6. Peterbald
| Average Weight | 7 to 14 lbs |
| Lifespan | 12 to 15 years |
| Price | $1,700 to $4,000 |
Ancestry
Peterbald is a Russian breed that was popularized in 1988. It is a mix of Russian Donskoy and Orientation Shorthair cat and comes in a lot of varieties.
Characteristics
You can recognize this cat breed from its unusual coat. It has a hairless or peach fuzz-like coat with extremely short fur.
Temperament
Peterbalds are usually affectionate and friendly. They are not overly energetic but would gladly nap on your lap for hours and let you pet them. They are also very intelligent and give off wise sage vibes.
Perfect For?
They are most suited to quiet environments where they can rest and live a peaceful life. If you’re single and living alone, this cat might be your most suited companion.
Beware though, they have sensitive skin and are prone to sunburns so don’t take them to beaches or outdoors a lot!
5. The Sphynx
| Average Weight | 6 to 14 lbs |
| Lifespan | 9 to 15 years |
| Price | $2,000 to $10,000 |
Ancestry
This cat breed dates back to Canada in 1966 when a domestic shorthair cat gave birth to a litter with a hairless kitten in them. This hairlessness came about naturally as a result of genetic mutation.
Characteristics
The most apparent physical trail of a Sphynx is the lack of coat or fur. This breed is completely hairless or sometimes has a very fine fuzz all over its body. The long narrow head and big eyes make them appear cute and lovable.
Temperament
Sphynx loves to cuddle and snuggle up to their favorite humans. They are prone to separation anxiety and may require your attention at all times.
Perfect For?
This unusual and exotic cat breed is not for everyone as it is extremely high maintenance. Due to the lack of coat, Sphynx is prone to several health conditions such as skin infections, sunburn, cold, fever, etc.
They require frequent baths with specialized shampoos ideal for their skin. Since they don’t have the natural insulation that comes with having fur, you’ll need to keep the temperature off your house maintained according to them.
They also need a specialized diet. All of this leads to a great expenditure. Rightfully, earning them a place in the list of most expensive cat breeds in the world.
4. Black Siberian Cat
| Average Weight | 15 to 20 lbs |
| Lifespan | 11 to 15 Years |
| Price | $2,175 to $5,450 |
Ancestry
It is the naturally occurring cat of Siberia that has developed and transformed over the years. According to some sources, they are the cross between domestic cats and wild cats of Russia.
Characteristics
Lustrous coats and fur with curious green and gold color eyes are the major characteristics of the Black Siberian Cat. With a lean body, their rare legs are longer than the front.
Temperament
They have a calm personality and love to play with kids and toys. They can also sense emotions and communicate well if they are bored or in pain. Due to their love for companionship, they tend to understand basic human emotions well.
Perfect For?
They can be easily entertained and go well with kids and adults alike. They love to cuddle and play, so families with kids are perfect.
3. Khao Manee
| Average Weight | 8 to 11 lbs |
| Lifespan | 10-12 Years |
| Price | $7,000 to $11,000 |
Ancestry
Known as the White Gem or Diamond Eye Cat, its origin country is Thailand, which traces back hundreds of years. It was associated with the Thai royalty and is considered a symbol of spiritual awakening or enlightenment.
Characteristics
Its white coat, diamond eyes, and muscular body make it one of the rarest breeds of cats. They have a jolly and friendly personality and go well with other animals as well. So, they are the best option if someone is a beginner adopter of pets.
Temperament
They are very playful and easy to go with. Kids indulge with them due to their responsive and affectionate nature. Their high energy levels keep them active even after a long day of playing and having fun.
Perfect For?
Since they love to have someone around to play with, they are perfect for families and kids. If you are a workaholic who works for long hours, Khao Manee may not be for you.
2. Savannah
| Average Weight | 7.7 to 18.1 lbs |
| Lifespan | 17 to 20 years |
| Price | $12,000 to $20,000 |
Ancestry
Breed a domestic house cat with an African Serval, and you get a Savannah cat. This is an ultra-exotic cat breed that’s not even recognized as domestic in some states.
Characteristics
Long legs, huge ears, and a shiny spotted coat mixed with strips are the main features of Savannah cats. They’re also the tallest domesticated cat breed in the world and weigh about 30 lbs.
Temperament
Wild and Unfriendly. You’ll need to pay special attention and care to Savannah cats for them to like you. They are generally aggressive and don’t like strangers. But they are curious and super intelligent, with a lot of energy.
Perfect For?
A wild cat breed is not for everyone. They’re exotic but unfriendly. Not your usual house cat. Savannah cats belong in ultra-rich households that can give them an ideal habitat.
These cats only eat raw meat and never use a litter box. So only people who can afford all this should keep this one of the most expensive cat breeds in the globe.
1. Ashera
| Average Weight | 26 to 33 lbs |
| Lifespan | 12–20 years |
| Price | $125,000 and more |
Ancestry
One of the rarest and newest cat breeds in the world, Ashera was bred in the early 2000s by a California company. They are a hybrid of African Servals and Asian Leopards.
Characteristics
A pretty tall cat with both leopard spots and tiger stripes. Weigh about 30 lbs. And can be recognized by their large pointy ears.
Temperament
Friendly cats. Good with children. Intelligent and can be leash-trained. Ashera cats are low maintenance. They love to snuggle up in warm places so most likely will spend most of their time in your blankets. They also love to climb so prepare an excellent cat tree for them!
Perfect For?
Households with children. Ashera is a friendly, not overly affectionate, cat breed that can become a great addition to your family (if you can afford the price tag, of course).
Top 3 Things to Consider Before Buying an Exotic Cat Breed
If you’ve decided on a particular cat breed to make a part of your family, don’t make the following mistakes before buying!
Research the Cat Breed You Want Thoroughly
All cat breeds have different temperaments and personalities. What you want might not be a good fit for you. That’s why always research the cat breed you want.
Some cats are friendly, some super affectionate, and others downright aggressive. If you’re a family with children, choose a cat breed friendly and not wary of strangers such as the Siamese, Maine Coon, Persian, etc.
If you have a hectic life, do not get cats who are prone to separation anxiety like the Sphynx.
Look for a Trustworthy Cat Breeder
Because there’s a lot of money involved in the breeding business, a lot of people turn to inhumane ways to sell the most expensive cat breeds.
Beware of kitten mills, those abuse animals without any regard for humane treatment. Look for a reliable breeder and make sure he treats the animals kindly and takes care of all their needs.
Visit the facility to check things in person. A trustworthy breeder will ask you for a reference check and sign a contract to ensure that you can afford and give a good life to their babies.
If a breeder doesn’t ask for these things and seems sketchy, report them immediately!
Is your Desired Cat Breed Fit for Your Lifestyle?
It’s a lot of work taking care of a cat. Various cat breeds require different upkeep and attention. For example, Persian cats are high maintenance and require daily grooming.
Do you have that much time every day to spend brushing her hair? Bengal cats, as another example, are super energetic and require a lot of exercise and play.
Can you spend that much time playing with them? Do you even like to exercise? Choose a cat that fits your lifestyle.
Conclusion
Always prioritize adoption as compared to shopping for pets. But if you still want the most expensive cat breed because it aligns with your lifestyle and temperament, then consider choosing one from the list above!
We promise you won’t suffer from any puppy blues! But Always make sure to research the breeder before buying to ensure that you’re not unwillingly participating in animal mistreatment.
Read Also: Pet Friendly Airbnbs
