Savannah (Average purchase cost: $2,000 to $20,000)
The Savannah cat breed pounced into the cat world in 1986 through crossbreeding wild African Servals with domestic cats, including Bengals, Egyptian Maus and Oriental Shorthairs. These cats make excellent family pets, displaying strong loyalty to their human companions. While they can coexist harmoniously with dogs and other cats, their strong hunting instincts make them incompatible with smaller pets like hamsters, fish or birds.
Known for their athletic abilities, Savannah cats possess a curious and adventurous nature. These remarkable felines can perform impressive vertical leaps of up to eight feet. They enjoy outdoor activities, including leash walking and even swimming. When it comes to cost, there's significant variation in price. First-generation Savannahs (F1s with a direct Serval parent) command the highest prices, while subsequent generations become progressively more affordable.
Khao Manee cat ($2,200-$5,000)
The Khao Manee is one of the world's most exclusive and treasured cat breeds, with roots deeply embedded in Thai history. This remarkable feline, which remained a well-guarded secret within Thailand's borders for centuries, eventually gained protected status due to its cultural significance and rarity.
What sets the Khao Manee apart is its striking appearance — a pristine white coat complemented by extraordinary eyes that earned them the nickname "Diamond Eye." These cats can possess either mesmerizing golden or blue eyes, while some are blessed with heterochromia, sporting one of each color. In their native Thailand, these elegant creatures are not just pets; they're considered royal companions and bearers of good fortune.
Given their exceptional lineage, distinctive appearance and remarkable intelligence, it comes as no surprise that Khao Manee cats command premium prices in the pet market. Their playful nature and rich heritage make them highly sought after by cat enthusiasts worldwide.
Toyger (Average purchase cost: $2,000 to $5,000)
If you've ever dreamed of having a mini-tiger prowling around your home, the Toyger may be your ideal companion. Despite their wild appearance, these cats are actually a domestic breed created by mixing Bengal cats with striped domestic shorthairs. What makes them special is their remarkable intelligence and trainability. These clever felines excel at learning tricks, solving puzzle toys and engaging with interactive games, making mental stimulation an essential part of their daily routine.
While Toygers may look fierce, they're actually quite affectionate and enjoy spending quality time with their human family members. However, they do have their limits when it comes to physical interaction. These cats prefer a household where both children and adults understand and respect their personal space, making them better suited for families who can recognize when their feline friend needs some alone time.
Bengal cat (Average purchase cost: $1,800 to $3,000)
The Bengal cat is a stunning breed that combines the appearance of a wild leopard with the temperament of a domestic cat. Their distinctive coat patterns, which include unique rosettes similar to those found on big cats, make them instantly recognizable. These athletic felines possess remarkable intelligence and can be trained to perform tricks and even walk on a leash.
What sets Bengals apart is their boundless energy and need for engagement. They're not your typical couch potato cats — these active pets require plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation to thrive. Due to their high-energy nature and specific care requirements, they may not be the best choice for novice cat owners. One of their most distinctive traits is their unusual fondness for water, making them one of the few domestic cat breeds that actively seeks out aquatic play.
Sphynx (Average purchase cost: $1,500 to $3,000)
What a cool looking cat, eh? The Sphynx cat is a fascinating breed that actually originated in Toronto! This home-grown breed emerged when a natural genetic mutation resulted in a hairless kitten being born to a regular domestic cat. These affectionate and social cats are known for their friendly personalities, getting along wonderfully with children, other cats and even dogs, making them perfect family pets.
Due to their lack of fur, Sphynxes are particularly sensitive to temperature and often seek warmth through snuggling under blankets or cuddling with their human companions. Their exposed skin requires special attention, including the application of sunscreen when they're lounging near windows or spending time outdoors.
While these cats don't require traditional grooming like brushing and don't leave fur around the house, they do need regular baths to maintain healthy skin. Interestingly, the genetic trait responsible for their hairless appearance is recessive, meaning that even in specialized breeding programs, not every kitten will be born without fur. This factor contributes to the Sphynx's rarity and unique status in the cat world.
Persian (Average purchase cost: $1,500 to $5,500)
The Persian cat, one of the most distinguished and ancient feline breeds, traces its origins to Persia (modern-day Iran). These regal cats, once a favourite of Queen Victoria, continue to captivate pet lovers today with their elegant appearance. Their signature features include a distinctive flat face and stunning long fur. While Persians typically maintain a serene and tranquil demeanor, they occasionally surprise their owners with unexpected bursts of playful energy. Apart from these sporadic moments of excitement, Persians generally maintain their characteristic poise and grace.
These refined felines thrive best in peaceful adult households where they can fully embrace their affectionate nature. Unlike some cats that shy away from physical contact, Persians actively seek and enjoy cuddling with their human companions. Their luxurious coat, while stunning, requires regular maintenance and will inevitably shed throughout your home. A quality pet hair vacuum is essential for managing the abundant fur. Potential owners should also be aware of health considerations specific to the breed, including cherry eye (a condition where eyelashes grow inward) and potential breathing difficulties due to their characteristic flat facial structure.
Himalayan (Average purchase cost: $1,000 to $2,500)
Looking for a cat breed that combines elegance with a laid-back personality? Enter the Himalayan. This stunning hybrid, developed in the 1930s, masterfully blends the luxurious long coat of the Persian with the distinctive colour points of the Siamese. And while they may share DNA with the chatty Siamese, Himalayans tend to keep their opinions to themselves.
These gentle souls are the epitome of feline grace and affection. Himalayans form deep bonds with their human families, preferring quiet cuddle sessions over high-energy playtime. They're the perfect companion for someone seeking a loving, low-key pet.
However, that gorgeous coat comes with responsibilities. Daily grooming sessions are non-negotiable, and you'll need to schedule regular baths to maintain their luxurious fur. A consistent grooming routine is essential to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy and pristine.
Russian Blue (Average purchase cost: $1,000 to $2,500)
When it comes to feline snobs, certain cat breeds take pride in their exclusive nature. Like sophisticated socialites, they carefully evaluate newcomers before deciding if they're worthy of their attention. However, once you've earned their trust and approval, these discerning cats transform into devoted companions.
Among these elite breeds, the Russian Blue stands out with its distinctive coat, which ranges from silvery to deep slate gray. While cat enthusiasts refer to them as "blue," their true appeal lies not only in their striking appearance but also in their meticulous nature. These cats are renowned for their impeccable grooming habits and their notably precise litter box etiquette, traits that contribute to their higher price tag and desirability.
Ragdoll (Average purchase cost: $1,000 to $2,000)
Ragdolls are magnificent felines known for their impressive size and luxuriously plush coats, complemented by striking blue eyes that captivate everyone they meet. Their popularity is well-deserved, extending far beyond their stunning appearance. These gentle giants are renowned for their sociable nature, making them perfect companions for active households filled with family members, frequent visitors and other pets. Their exceptional ability to coexist harmoniously with dogs sets them apart from many other cat breeds, minimizing household pet tensions.
What truly sets Ragdolls apart is their extraordinary bond with their human family members. Unlike more independent cats, these affectionate companions thrive on human interaction, becoming devoted shadows to their owners. They express their love through constant companionship: Following their humans from room to room, offering gentle headbutts and cuddles, sharing the bed at night and rushing to the door to welcome their family home. While their loving nature makes them incomparable pets, responsible owners should monitor their health carefully, as these cats can be susceptible to certain health conditions, including obesity, urinary tract issues and cardiac concerns.
British Shorthair (Average purchase cost: $700 to $3,000)
The British Shorthair stands out as one of the most sought-after cats, and it's easy to understand why. These charming felines boast a remarkable health record, with their main health concern being a tendency toward weight gain if their diet isn't properly monitored.
Their robust health profile means fewer trips to the veterinarian, which helps offset their initial purchase price. While these cats come in various colour patterns, the distinctive blue-gray coat paired with striking copper eyes remains the most desirable combination. However, potential owners should note that British Shorthairs aren't typically cuddlers. While they enjoy companionship and will contentedly lounge nearby, they prefer to maintain some personal space and generally don't appreciate being picked up.
Scottish Fold (Average purchase cost: $1,500 to $3,000)
If you're in search of an adorable, fluffy companion who will shower you with endless affection, the Scottish Fold cat might be your perfect match. Known for their distinctive owl-like appearance with large, expressive eyes, rounded face and trademark folded ears, these cats are renowned for their intelligence and gentle nature. They adapt easily to new environments and tend to speak softly. Their unique folded ears make them one of the most sought-after and expensive cat breeds, with celebrity owners like Taylor Swift frequently showcasing her two Scottish Folds on social media platforms.
However, it's important to understand that their characteristic folded ears are actually caused by a genetic condition called osteochondrodysplasia, which affects cartilage development throughout the body. This condition can have serious health implications as these cats age. The disorder may cause joint fusion in their ankles, knees or tail, leading to significant mobility issues. Affected cats often experience stiffness and discomfort, and in more severe cases, they may develop debilitating arthritis.
Lykoi (Average purchase cost: $1,500 to $2,500)
The Lykoi cat, affectionately nicknamed the "wolf cat" or "werewolf cat," emerged as a distinct breed in 2011. This fascinating feline owes its unique appearance to a naturally occurring mutation found in feral cats. Despite their somewhat wild appearance, Lykois are incredibly affectionate companions who form strong bonds with their human families and get along well with other pets.
Due to their rarity and relatively recent emergence in the cat breeding world, Lykoi cats come with a premium price tag. Prospective owners can expect to pay between $1,500 and $2,500 for these distinctive pets, as there are currently only a small number of specialized Lykoi breeders worldwide.
Peterbald (Average purchase cost: $1,400 to $3,500)
The Peterbald, a relatively recent addition to the feline world, emerged in 1993 through the innovative work of a Russian breeder. This unique breed resulted from crossing the hairless Donskoy with an Oriental Shorthair. As with many newer breeds, Peterbalds command premium prices due to the substantial costs associated with developing and maintaining a novel breed line.
These distinctive cats, whether sporting a peach-fuzz coat or completely hairless, make exceptional snuggle partners. Their naturally elevated body temperature makes them particularly appealing during cold weather. Known for their vocal nature, Peterbalds are constant conversationalists who love to communicate with their human family members through an array of chirps, trills and meows.
Maine Coon (Average purchase cost: $2,500 to $5,000)
Maine Coons consistently rank among the most popular cat breeds according to the Cat Fanciers' Association, which explains their premium price point. Known as the gentle giants of the feline world, these cats are renowned for their friendly and sociable nature, making them excellent companions for families with children and other pets.
These robust cats evolved to thrive in New England's harsh winter conditions. Their distinctive physical features include oversized paws that act as natural snowshoes, helping them navigate through deep snow. Their prominent whiskers and common polydactyl trait (extra toes) further enhance their ability to move confidently through challenging outdoor environments.
Despite their robust constitution, Maine Coons can be susceptible to certain inherited health conditions. The most significant concern is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a serious heart condition that requires vigilant monitoring. Responsible pet owners should schedule annual cardiac ultrasounds to detect and manage any early signs of this condition.
American Curl cats (Average purchase cost: $1,200 to $3,000)
The American Curl is a remarkable feline breed known for its unique and distinctive curled ears — a trait that emerged from a natural genetic mutation. First discovered in 1981 as a stray black longhaired cat in Lakewood, California, this breed traces its lineage back to that single cat named Shulamith. The breed has since captured the hearts of cat enthusiasts worldwide.
These cats possess an elegant appearance with their silky coat that lies flat against their medium-sized, rectangular body. Their expressive eyes and signature curved ears give them an alert and enchanting appearance. American Curls are cherished for their loving nature and social disposition, getting along well with both humans and fellow felines. While they're not particularly talkative, they demonstrate high intelligence and adaptability. Those with long hair require regular grooming attention to maintain their beautiful coat.
Siberian Forest cat (Average purchase cost: $1,200 to $4,000)
The Siberian Forest cat combines strength and grace in its remarkable physical presence. Their loving and sociable nature makes them perfect companions for families, readily bonding with children and other pets alike. These affectionate cats will shower their humans with attention and cuddles, making them a joy to have around.
Built for survival in harsh climates, the Siberian Forest cat boasts an impressive physique. Their muscular frame features a broad chest, powerful legs, and large paws that give them both strength and agility. This sturdy build reflects their natural heritage as forest cats.
Perhaps their most striking feature is their luxurious coat, which adapts to seasonal changes. During winter months, their semi-long fur becomes thicker and more abundant, creating a distinguished ruff around their neck and a glorious mane. Their bushy tail, which serves as both a statement piece and a natural warmth provider, is particularly impressive. Come summer, their coat naturally thins while maintaining its beautiful appearance.
Oriental Shorthair (Average purchase cost: $600 to $1,500)
As a social and energetic breed, Oriental cats are known for their exceptional intelligence and strong bonds with their human companions. These charming felines often demonstrate their affection through constant interaction and vocal communication, making them delightful conversation partners. Their playful nature persists well into adulthood, and they'll happily engage with various toys, particularly enjoying games of fetch.
While Orientals may develop a special connection with one family member, they're generally sociable cats who thrive in households with multiple people and pets. Their gregarious personality and need for companionship make them excellent family pets, but this also means they don't do well when left alone for extended periods. These cats flourish in environments where they have plenty of interaction with humans or other pets.
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