Top 12+ of the Most Expensive Cat Breeds Money Can Buy

9. British Shorthair

Average cost: $1,500–$3,000

Just one look and you can see why these super cute and wildly popular Brits made this list of the most expensive cat breeds.

"A lot of people say they look like big plush teddy bears," Keiger says. "They have the densest coat of any of our breeds—300 hairs per square inch—so you can put your hands in it, then release, and you don't see where your hands have been." The expert likens the British Shorthair to a "fine Oriental rug that you can walk across and not leave a footprint."

The large-boned breed also boasts big round eyes, round heads and jowls that suggest a mischievous smile. In fact, the breed inspired illustrator John Tenniel's rendition of the Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland. They're not lap cats—they prefer to snuggle next to you—but they do love their people, and they are easily trainable.

British Shorthairs come in a variety of colors, but it's the smoky blue ones with copper-colored eyes that are the most coveted (and pricey). But hey, if you need to justify the cost, know that you will probably save money on vet bills with this breed. British Shorthairs are known for their clean bill of health—though they are prone to obesity if they get their paws in the treat jar too often.

5. Persian

Average cost: $1,300–$5,000

As one of the oldest cat breeds, believed to be from Persia (now Iran), glamorous Persians are just as popular today as they were when they graced Queen Victoria's lap.

"They're renowned for their beauty," says Keiger. "When people think of a longhaired cat, they usually think of the Persian." 

Persians are prized for their luxurious coats and big round eyes, and their personalities are just as appealing. Gentle and sweet-natured, they generally prefer to live with adults in a quiet household. Some cats aren't fond of being picked up, but the Persian relishes a snuggle session. "They will come nuzzle your face to wake you up and cuddle," says Keiger.

Like other breeds with flat faces, some Persians have been prone to respiratory issues and an eye condition known as cherry eye, so make sure to select a reputable breeder who performs all necessary health screenings. And about that luxe coat: It can mat if left uncombed, so be ready for daily grooming sessions.

3. Devon Rex

Average cost: $2,500-$5,000

Sometimes called the pixies of the cat world, the diminutive Devon Rex is all kinds of adorable.

"They look a little like aliens," says Keiger. "When I'm judging a Devon Rex, I always have to remind myself not to get caught up in the cuteness."

That's no easy feat, given the cats' elfin appearance. Devons have big eyes, large, stand-up ears and a soft, curly coat you'll be hard-pressed not to run your fingers through. Even better, that impish appearance comes packaged with an equally impish personality. The breed is known for being smart, mischievous and extremely people-oriented. "They'll want to be with you all the time," says Keiger. "In fact, they kind of insist on it."

With a history that traces back to a curly-haired tomcat in Devon, England, in 1960, the Devon Rex breed has boomed in popularity in recent years. That's helped drive up their price tag, as you can see from their high spot on this list of the most expensive cat breeds. If you get a Devon Rex, know that they are very active cats—so make sure to supply them with plenty of toys and attention.

2. Sphynx

Average cost: $2,000–$5,000

The Sphynx looks like it belongs in an ancient Egyptian tomb, but this breed hails from Toronto, Canada. Their story began in 1966, when a domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten, courtesy of a natural genetic mutation. Years of selective breeding followed, and the Sphynx was recognized by the CFA in 1998.

"At first, people think they're weird because they don't have any hair, but they're really very cute and sweet," says Keiger. "When you hold one, it's like holding a soft, suede hot water bottle."

Unlike its (also hairless) cousin the Peterbald, which has an elongated Siamese-like body, the Sphynx is less angular. It has a round face with big ears and a noticeably wrinkly appearance. Because the Sphynx comes from a recessive gene, not all kittens in a litter will be born hairless, which makes the furless kitties all the more prized.

It can get a little chilly for these fur-free extroverts, so cuddling and sleeping under the covers is the norm. (Luckily, "they're very people-oriented," Keiger says.) And while Sphynx cats obviously don't need to be brushed, they do need baths every few months to remove oil buildup on their skin.