You know how they say that money can’t buy happiness? It can, however, buy a furry little friend to snuggle with—and that’s just as good, right?
If you’re on the hunt for a new kitty companion and don’t want to break the bank, check out these 12 cheapest cat breeds. From the Manx to the Siamese, there’s a feline friend for everyone!
What Is the Cheapest Cat: Highlights
| BREED | COST |
| Oriental Shorthair | $400–$500 |
| Siamese | $200–$800 |
| Turkish Van | $200–$800 |
| Manx | $400–$800 |
| American Shorthair | $600–$1,000 |
Top 12 Cheapest Cat Breeds
There are over 400 million cats living across the globe. While each one is unique, they all have something in common: they’re not exactly cheap.
So what to do when you can’t afford to break bank and adoption is for some reason not an option? What is the cheapest cat breed to own? Keep on reading for the 12 most affordable fluffballs out there.
1. Oriental Shorthair
| Price (USD) | $400–$500 |
| Average Lifespan | 15 years |
| Average Weight | 8–12 lbs |
As the name implies, this is a short–haired breed of cat characterized by its large ears, triangular face, and long, slender body. They come in more than 300 patterns and colors, and their intelligence and friendly nature make them popular pets.
Though they require less grooming than long-haired breeds, Orientals still need regular brushing to keep their coats healthy and free of mats. Oriental shorthair cat can cost between $400 and $500, but since they come in many coat patterns, some cats might be more expensive than others.
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2. Siamese
| Price (USD) | $200–$800 |
| Average Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Average Weight | 8–15 lbs |
The Siamese is one of the oldest and most popular pedigree cats, known for their striking eyes, triangular head shape, long, lithe bodies, and colorpoint pattern. Their elegant appearance might make it seem like they’re costly, but their price ranges from $200 to $800.
The Siamese is a chatty feline that enjoys the company of others. If its owner leaves it by itself for long periods, it can develop anxiety and start to display destructive behaviors like compulsive grooming (over-grooming) or pica (eating non-food items).
3. Turkish Van
| Price (USD) | $200–$800 |
| Average Lifespan | 12–17 years |
| Average Weight | 10–20 lbs |
The Turkish Van is a domestic cat that originates from the Lake Van region in Turkey. It’s characterized by its “van pattern” of coloration: a white base with colored markings on the head and tail only.
Turkish Vans are relatively rare, but they usually get sold for no more than $800.
This breed may act out if they get bored, so providing nice toys and playtime is crucial. After a long play session, most will sleep more to recover their energy. However, Turkish Vans actually tend to sleep less than other breeds.
4. Manx
| Price (USD) | $400–$800 |
| Average Lifespan | 9–13 years |
| Average Weight | 8–12 lbs |
Manx is another cutie that doesn’t seem particularly unusual at first glance—until they turn around. The cat breed is known for its bobbed tail, round body, round face, and jolly disposition. They come in various colors and patterns and are relatively low-maintenance, making them one of the cheapest cat breeds to own.
It’s a very intelligent breed that can be taught many tricks. Manx cat price lies between $400 and $500, but some can be more expensive if they have a rare coat color, pattern, or even a tail.
5. American Shorthair
| Price (USD) | $600–$1,000 |
| Average Lifespan | 15–20 years |
| Average Weight | 11–15 lbs |
The American shorthair is a muscular and stocky breed with a short, dense coat. It comes in various colors and patterns and is one of the most popular varieties in the United States. They are known for being friendly, affectionate, and good with children.
The American shorthair is a low-maintenance breed that doesn’t require much grooming. They are also relatively healthy, with a 15–20 years lifespan, but, as any other breed, will require regular veterinary visits.
The average cost of an American shorthair is $600, but the price will be higher for cats with a rare coat color or pattern.
6. Cornish Rex
| Price (USD) | $100–$1,300 |
| Average Lifespan | 9–13 years |
| Average Weight | 6–10 lbs |
The Cornish Rex is small to medium-sized cat that is known for its agility and acrobatic skills. It’s a relatively new breed, first developed in Cornwall, England, in the 1950s.
This is a very athletic cat, distinguished by its slender body, long legs, and large ears. It’s also notable for its short, wavy coat, which can come in various colors and patterns. They love to play and can be quite playful even into adulthood.
They are also known for being affectionate and good with children.
7. Snowshoe
| Price (USD) | $200–$1,000 |
| Average Lifespan | 14–20 years |
| Average Weight | 7–12 lbs |
The Snowshoe sports a silky coat similar to Siamese cats and adorable white feet. While the breed’s history is uncertain, cat experts believe its ancestry dates back to the US in the 1960s.
Snowshoe cats have personalities ranging from shy and aloof to fiercely loyal and affectionate. If you’re considering a Snowshoe cat, it’s essential to take the time to learn about its dominant personality traits.
They are relatively easy to groom and don’t require much maintenance. The Snowshoe kitten price range is quite flexible, so we’re positive you’ll find something without breaking the bank.
8. Tonkinese
| Price (USD) | $250–$1,000 |
| Average Lifespan | 15–18 years |
| Average Weight | 6–12 lbs |
The Tonkinese is a relatively new cat breed developed by crossing Burmese and Siamese cats. These felines are known for their playful personalities, intelligence, and affectionate nature.
They are typically medium-sized cats with lithe bodies, long legs, and triangular heads. Their eyes are typically a deep blue or green. Their coats are short, fine, and silky and come in various colors, including seal, blue, lilac, and chocolate.
If you’re looking for an intelligent, affectionate cat with a playful personality, the Tonkinese may be the perfect breed for you.
9. Himalayan
| Price (USD) | $300–$1,250 |
| Average Lifespan | 9–15 years |
| Average Weight | 7–12 lbs |
The Himalayan is a hybrid cat breed developed by crossing a Persian and a Siamese cat. These cats are known for their beautiful blue eyes and long coats. They are typically medium to large-sized cats with a stocky build and short legs.
Their coats come in various colors and patterns, requiring regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Himalayans are also prone to medical conditions, so consult a veterinarian before adding one of these cats to your family.
10. Havana Brown
| Price (USD) | $300–$1,500 |
| Average Lifespan | 8–13 years |
| Average Weight | 8–12 lbs |
Moving on—let’s meet this adorable cat with a short, glossy coat that comes in rich brown. These cats are known for their concerned (yet silly) expression, affectionate nature, and love of attention.
The Havana brown is an active breed that loves to play and explore. They are also intelligent and can be trained to do tricks. If you’re looking for a beautiful, affectionate cat with an aesthetically pleasing coffee-like coat, look no further than this breed.
11. Burmese
| Price (USD) | $500–$1,000 |
| Average Lifespan | 8–13 years |
| Average Weight | 8–12 lbs |
This cat breed has beaming, golden or green eyes, a short-haired coat that comes in various shades of brown. The Burmese are perfect for you if you’re looking for a lap cat that will provide you with years of companionship.
They are known for being intelligent, playful, and loving cats that enjoy spending time with their humans. Their short coat makes them low maintenance too, so it’s a win-win.
12. Munchkin
| Price (USD) | $900–$2,400 |
| Average Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Average Weight | 8–12 lbs |
Last but not least, the Munchkin cat is a small domestic cat breed known for its stubby legs. These cats are often described as “sausages” due to their small stature. However, they are also known for being playful, affectionate, and good with children.
Due to their short legs, they are prone to health problems, but with proper care, they can live long and healthy lives. The prices of this cat breed depend on their color and patterning, but they typically fall on the cheaper side.
Key Takeaways
So, if you are looking for a feline friend on a budget, one of these 12 breeds might be perfect for you. And remember, even the cheapest cat breed can become expensive if they require special care or develop health problems. If you’re ready to add a cat to your family, be sure to do your research and consult with a veterinarian to find the perfect breed for you.
That said, please consider adopting rather than buying, as there are many kitties in shelters that would surely make your life happier and fuller.
