What Are the Most Expensive Cat Breeds? Prices for 10 Pricey Breeds

The most expensive cat breeds are the Savannah, Bengal, Sphynx, Persian, and Peterbald, with Savannah kittens from breeders costing anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000.¹ You may see the Ashera at the top of other lists, but it isn't a recognized breed, and DNA testing showed some "Ashera" kittens were actually Savannahs.²

Most Expensive Cat Breeds and Their Prices

Here's what kittens from breeders typically cost, from the most expensive breed to the least:¹

The top of each range usually means a show-quality kitten or an early-generation hybrid. Pet-quality kittens often cost much less. Cats.com puts pet-quality Bengal kittens at $1,500 to $3,000 and pet-quality Sphynx kittens at $1,500 to $4,000.³

Is the Ashera the Most Expensive Cat Breed?

No, because the Ashera isn't a real breed. It was marketed as a rare hybrid for $125,000 and up, but it's not recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association or The International Cat Association.²

According to Catster, DNA testing on kittens seized in 2008 showed they were Savannahs. The company behind the Ashera closed in 2015, and some groups, including the Savannah Cat Association, consider the whole breed a hoax.² For the full story, see our breakdown of how much an Ashera costs.

Why Are Savannah and Bengal Cats So Expensive?

Both breeds come from crossing domestic cats with wild cats. Savannahs descend from the African serval, and Bengals from the Asian leopard cat. That wild ancestry gives them their striking coats and athletic builds, and it makes breeding them harder.

Savannah prices depend on generation, or how many generations a kitten is removed from its serval ancestor. The closer to the serval, the higher the price. Cats.com notes that an F3 Savannah might cost $3,500 to $5,000 or more, while an F4 typically costs $2,500 to $3,500.³ Early generations like F1 and F2 sit at the top of the price range.

Before you buy either breed, check your local laws. Some states and cities restrict owning early-generation hybrid cats.

What Makes the Other Breeds So Pricey?

For most pedigree cats, price comes down to rarity, demand, and the cost of responsible breeding:

Remember that the purchase price is only the start. Our guide to how much a cat costs breaks down food, litter, and vet care after you bring your kitten home.

Should You Buy a Scottish Fold?

Scottish Folds are famous for their folded ears, but the gene behind them causes real harm. According to International Cat Care, the same mutation that folds the ear cartilage causes severe abnormalities of the cartilage in bones, leading to painful arthritis.⁴

International Cat Care calls it unethical to keep breeding cats with a mutation known to cause painful disease.⁴ If you love the look, consider adopting an adult Scottish Fold from a rescue, and ask your vet about joint care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most expensive cat breed in the world?

The Savannah is the most expensive recognized cat breed, with kittens from breeders costing up to around fifty thousand dollars for early generations.¹ Bengals come next, especially show-quality kittens. You'll sometimes see the Ashera listed as more expensive, but it isn't a recognized breed, and DNA testing showed some Ashera kittens were actually Savannahs.²

Are expensive cat breeds healthier than mixed-breed cats?

Not necessarily. A high price usually reflects rarity and demand, not better health. Many purebred cats are prone to breed-specific conditions, such as joint disease in Scottish Folds or skin issues in hairless breeds. Choosing a breeder who health-tests parent cats matters more than the price tag, and regular vet visits help catch problems early.

Can you adopt an expensive cat breed?

Yes. Purebred cats like Persians, Maine Coons, and Siamese do end up in shelters and breed-specific rescues, though less often than mixed breeds. Adult cats are easier to find than kittens. Adoption costs far less than buying from a breeder, and many rescues include vaccines and spay or neuter surgery in the fee.

Do expensive cats cost more to own?

Often, yes. Beyond the purchase price, some pricey breeds need extra grooming, special diets, or more vet care. Persians need daily brushing, hairless cats need regular baths, and large breeds like Maine Coons eat more. Planning for these ongoing costs before you buy helps you budget for your cat's whole life.

For a look at the pricey side of the dog world, see our list of the most expensive dog breeds.

When comparing pet insurance providers, it's important to look closely at what's actually covered. Some plans may offer lower premiums upfront, but fewer benefits when your pet needs care most.

Spot Pet Insurance includes microchip implantation coverage with every plan and can reimburse covered costs related to eligible chronic conditions, hereditary conditions, dental illnesses, and prescription foods.* These coverages can make a meaningful difference over time. Learn more about what pet insurance covers.

_{*Prescription food & supplements are covered if they are prescribed to treat an eligible accident or illness. Prescription food & supplements are not covered if they are used for weight management or general health maintenance.}