How Much Does an American Curl Cost in 2024?

American Curl cats are specifically known for a mutated gene that gives them their curled ears. It is expensive to buy this breed from a breeder and could cost you $1,200-$3,000.¹ It’s a good idea to adopt this breed. You can find out more about the costs below!

Characteristics of an American Curl

The American Curl, just like the name suggests, is known for the curled ears, that give them a distinct look. This breed is said to have originated in Lakewood, California due to a mutation of a gene.² In 1986, the American Curl cat was showcased at the cat show for the very first time.

This breed has a medium-sized, well-balanced body, they also have a soft silk-like coat that comes in various colors and patterns. They are known to be friendly and easily adaptable to various homes.³ These creatures are also very playful and are good with children as well. American Curls also gets along with other pets which makes them the perfect family pet to have.

What is the Price of an American Curl?

The American Curls are also known to be intelligent and are often aware of their environment. They love to stimulate their minds and play with the things that surround them.³

Adoption: $50 – $200

The cost of adopting an American Curl can cost between $50-$200. The American Curl is a purebred breed, so it may be difficult to find them in a local shelter. It’s more likely that one may have to purchase your American Curl kitten. You can find breeders at cat shows, or contact an American Curl breeder directly. It is expensive to buy this breed but that may be the only way to get your hands on this unique feline. The American curl may cost $1,200-$3000 if bought from a breeder.¹

Monthly costs for an American Curl

Diets: $10-$40

When it comes to their diet, you're looking at spending around $10 to $40 per month on food. It's important to note that you should provide a balanced and nutritionally complete diet for your American Curl to provide good nutrients. This estimate assumes you are feeding your pet a combination of dry and wet food. Consult with your veterinarian to get the best diet plan for your pet.

Grooming: $50-$100

Just like us our tiny pets also need pampering, grooming is the best way to make our pets feel loved. In the case of professional grooming, service costs can vary based on location and the groomer. To help save money, you can groom your cats at home by investing in some grooming supplies and grooming them yourself. In the case of a long-haired American Curl, brushing 1-2 times a week is good to help keep their fur tangle-free.²

Medical Costs: $50-$150

Budgeting various expenses is a vital part of owning a pet. Routine veterinary care, including check-ups and vaccinations, is necessary and typically ranges from $50 to $150 per visit. The American curl can be prone to developing health conditions which are important to keep in mind. According to International Cat Care, these conditions can include:

One-time costs for an American Curl kitten

Initial Costs: $1,200-$3000

The initial expense of an American Curl cat is based on whether the cat is adopted from a shelter or bought from a breeder. Breeders may be expensive based on how tight the curl of the ear of the pet is. Purebred American Curl kittens can cost $1,200 to $3,000.¹

Microchipping: $25-$50

Microchips are tiny devices as small as the size of a rice grain which is ingrained underneath the cat’s skin. This device has a unique identification number that gives you the information of its owner. On average, the cost of microchipping can range from $25 to $50. Many shelters microchip their pets before adoption and include the costs in their adoption fees.

Vaccines: $75-$200

Pet parents generally spend more in the initial year with their pet, than they do in other years. Vaccinations may cost around $100-$200 depending on the location of the vet. Staying up to date on vaccines is vital for the well-being of your pet. Feline leukemia (FeLV), FVRCP vaccine series, rabies, and Zoonotic vaccines are considered core vaccines and are essential for preventive measures.

Miscellaneous: $50-$150

Cats are very independent creatures but it’s still best to have a cat sitter or send them to a cat care facility when you travel, rather than leaving them home alone. This may cost around $15-$50 per day. It’s a good idea to keep around $50-$150 aside for additional expenses related to your pet.

Lifetime American Curl Cost

The ballpark estimate of the lifetime expenses to own an American Curl is around $16,000 to $20,000. This cost includes- food, grooming, vet visits, pet insurance, pet training, and expected medical costs. These costs may vary depending on any unexpected medical expenses and the health of your pet.

How Can Spot Pet Insurance Help?

Spot accident & illness pet insurance plans offer various coverages from microchip implantation to surgeries and prescription food and supplements prescribed to treat your pet’s unexpected accidents and illnesses. (Prescription food and supplements used for general health or weight maintenance are not covered). For an extra cost, Spot cat insurance plans offer preventive care coverage add-ons to help cover the costs of certain routine vaccinations, annual wellness exams, and other preventive care treatments. You can view the add-on preventive care coverage options here. Get in touch with us to learn more!

Conclusion

The American Curl cat is not just a unique-looking cat with curled ears. They are also great cuddlers and affectionate by nature. This breed is smart and playful and they might just follow you around like a dog.³ They are also mischievous and love to play with people. Cats may have a reputation for not being very playful, but not this one! American Curls are good with kids and other pets. There is no doubt that if you are looking for a pet that is playful and affectionate, then you should go get yourself an American Curl.