Cat Prices in the UK: The Ultimate Guide to Buying Your Dream Cat 2025

Cat Prices in the UK: The Ultimate Guide to Buying Your Dream Cat 2025

Cats make wonderful companions, but if you’re looking to buy a specific breed, the cost can vary wildly. Whether you’re after a regal Persian, an adventurous Bengal, or an ultra-rare Serval, prices depend on factors like pedigree, breeder reputation, coat color, and demand.

In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of buying a cat in the UK, covering everything from trusted places to buy to factors that affect pricing. We’ll also look at rescue and adoption options, so you can decide if buying or adopting is the best choice for you.

Where to Buy a Cat in the UK: Trusted Breeders, Rescues, and Shops

Before jumping into prices, let’s talk about the best places to find a cat in the UK. Avoid unverified sellers on social media or classified sites—these can be kitten mills or scams. Instead, stick with reputable breeders, adoption agencies, and dedicated pet platforms.

Reputable Breeders

If you’re set on a pedigree cat, go through a GCCF (Governing Council of the Cat Fancy) or TICA (The International Cat Association) registered breeder. These breeders follow ethical practices and prioritize health and genetics.

Rescue and Adoption

Many wonderful cats need homes, and adoption fees are much lower than breeder prices. Consider:

  • Cats Protection – The UK’s largest cat welfare charity with adoption centres nationwide.

  • RSPCA – Rescues and rehomes thousands of cats each year.

  • Battersea Dogs & Cats Home – One of the UK’s oldest animal rescues.

  • Blue Cross – Rehomes cats and provides medical care.

  • Breed-specific rescues – Many pedigree breeds (like Ragdolls, Persians, or Bengals) have dedicated rescues.

Online Pet Marketplaces (Use Caution!)

Sites like Pets4Homes and Gumtree list cats from private sellers. Some ethical breeders use these, but ALWAYS visit the breeder, see the kittens with their mother, and check registration papers.

Cat Prices in the UK: How Much Does a Pedigree Cat Cost?

Let’s break down the average cost of each breed in the UK and what factors influence their price.

Serval Cat Price in the UK

Servals are sleek, majestic predators native to Africa, famed for their incredible jumping skills—up to 10 feet in the air—and distinctively large ears that provide pinpoint hearing accuracy. Their sky-high prices reflect not only their wild nature and beauty but the rigorous licensing, specialized diets, and spacious habitats required to properly care for them. In the UK, they’re strictly regulated, making ownership rare and reserved for dedicated, experienced keepers.

  • £4,000–£8,000+ (Requires a Dangerous Wild Animals Licence)

  • Why so expensive? Servals are wild African cats, not domestic pets. They require permits, large enclosures, and specialized care. Most Servals in the UK are in wildlife parks or zoos.

  • Alternative: Consider an F4+ Savannah Cat (~£1,500–£8,000) for a Serval look with domestic traits.

Savannah Cat
Domesticated Savannah Cat

Sphynx Cat Price in the UK

Don’t be fooled by their seemingly hairless appearance—the affectionate, energetic Sphynx cats are covered in a soft layer of downy fuzz, giving their skin a warm, suede-like feel. Their high price tag comes from meticulous breeding practices aimed at preventing hereditary conditions, particularly heart disease (HCM). Their lively, sociable personalities mean they’re fantastic companions, especially for those who enjoy constant feline attention and cuddles.

  • £800–£2,000

  • Why so expensive? Sphynx breeding is costly due to genetic testing (HCM scans) and high veterinary care.

  • Adoption? Rare, but adult Sphynx rescues may be available for £100–£300.

Sphynx Cat
Sphynx Cat

Oriental Shorthair Price in the UK

Oriental Shorthairs are elegant and talkative cats, renowned for their slender bodies, almond-shaped eyes, and wide array of vibrant coat colors. While their striking appearance commands attention, it’s their engaging personalities and playful nature that truly set them apart. Although reasonably priced compared to some other pedigrees, rare color variations and show-quality bloodlines can significantly increase their value.

  • £300–£800+

  • Why so expensive? Rare colors and champion bloodlines push the price up.

  • Adoption? Occasionally available through Siamese or Oriental rescues.

Oriental Shorthair Cat
Oriental Shorthair Cat

Himalayan Cat Price in the UK

With their luxurious coats and stunning blue eyes, Himalayans combine the regal grace of Persians with the striking coloration of Siamese cats. Their affordability relative to other breeds is due to slightly lower demand, yet they still require careful grooming and attentive breeders committed to health. Calm, affectionate, and somewhat reserved, Himalayans thrive in quieter households, making them perfect companions for relaxed, peaceful lifestyles.

  • £500–£700

  • Why so expensive? Himalayans (Persian + Siamese mix) are uncommon, and breeders prioritize health.

  • Adoption? Can be found in Persian breed rescues.

Himalayan Cat
Himalayan Cat

Caracal Cat Price in the UK

Owning a Caracal is akin to caring for a miniature lion; their sleek bodies, tufted ears, and remarkable athleticism evoke awe and admiration. Native to Africa and parts of Asia, they’re true wild animals, not domesticated pets, driving up their already steep price. The extensive licensing requirements, habitat standards, and specialized care needed in the UK limit their ownership exclusively to dedicated, expert handlers.

  • £5,000–£15,000 (Requires a Dangerous Wild Animals Licence)

  • Why so expensive? Exotic species, rare in the UK, requiring special permits and facilities.

Caracal
Wild Caracal

Persian Cat Price in the UK

Persian cats are the epitome of feline royalty, boasting thick, silky coats and gentle, placid temperaments that make them ideal lap companions. Prices can vary greatly depending on the cat’s facial structure—with ultra-flat faces being more desirable—and lineage, with champion bloodlines commanding premium rates. Despite their aristocratic looks, they can be surprisingly affordable, particularly when adopting adults from breed-specific rescues.

  • £250–£700+

  • Why so expensive? Ultra-flat-faced Persians with champion bloodlines can fetch over £1,000.

  • Adoption? £100–£300 for adults via Persian rescue groups.

Persian Cat
Persian Cat

Ragdoll Cat Price in the UK

Ragdolls earn their name from their famously relaxed temperament—these gentle giants often flop like a soft toy when picked up. Their popularity is largely due to their friendly nature, stunning blue eyes, and silky semi-long coats, making them highly sought-after family pets. While prices reflect their immense popularity, adopting retired breeding or adult cats can offer a more affordable entry into Ragdoll ownership.

  • £700–£1,200

  • Why so expensive? High demand, large size, and affectionate nature drive prices up.

  • Adoption? £100–£180 from Ragdoll rescues.

Ragdoll Cat
Ragdoll Cat

Siamese Cat Price in the UK

Siamese cats are iconic, not just for their distinctive pointed coat and striking blue eyes, but also for their vibrant, outgoing personalities and vocal communication style. Highly intelligent and often demanding of human interaction, they’re perfect for owners seeking a lively, engaging companion. Pedigree bloodlines and traditional body types (Old Style or Applehead) tend to fetch the highest prices.

  • £400–£1,000

  • Why so expensive? Pedigree Siamese from championship lines command higher prices.

  • Adoption? £75–£150 from Siamese rescue organizations.

Siamese Cat
Siamese Cat

British Shorthair Price in the UK

Sturdy, affectionate, and famously round-faced, British Shorthairs are one of the UK’s most beloved breeds, known for their plush coats and gentle disposition. Their price varies considerably with coat color; the classic “British Blue” remains affordable, but unique shades like silver, cinnamon, or chocolate can triple their cost. Their laid-back, tolerant temperament also makes them a great choice for busy families.

  • £150–£1,000

  • Why so expensive? Blue British Shorthairs are common, but rare colors (e.g., silver shaded) cost more.

  • Adoption? £50–£150 for non-pedigree versions.

British Shorthair Cat
British Shorthair Cat

Bengal Cat Price in the UK

Bengals are admired for their exotic, leopard-like appearance and playful, energetic nature that brings a touch of the wild into domestic settings. Prices vary significantly based on the quality of their coat markings, with highly defined rosettes commanding premium rates. Their intelligence and curiosity mean they’re ideal for active households, though owners should be prepared for plenty of stimulating activities and adventures.

  • £400–£1,500

  • Why so expensive? Rosetted coat quality, early generation Bengals, and rare colors (silver, snow) push up prices.

  • Adoption? £150–£200 through Bengal breed rescues.

Bengal Cat
Bengal Cat

Maine Coon Price in the UK

Maine Coons, often dubbed “gentle giants,” are famous for their impressive size, tufted ears, and luxuriously fluffy tails. Originally bred for harsh winters, they boast water-resistant coats and playful, dog-like personalities that charm everyone they meet. Their higher costs typically reflect their impressive lineage, imported European bloodlines, and strong demand due to their affectionate, family-friendly nature.

  • £400–£1,600

  • Why so expensive? Large size and imported European lines make these highly sought-after.

  • Adoption? Maine Coon rescues sometimes have retired adults for £100–£300.

Main Coon Cat
Main Coon Cat

Factors That Affect Cat Prices in the UK

  • Pedigree & Lineage – Championship bloodlines cost more.

  • Breeder Reputation – Ethical breeders invest in health testing and socialization.

  • Coat Color – Rare colors like lilac, cinnamon, or silver shaded command higher prices.

  • Health Tests & Vet Care – PKD-free Persians, HCM-tested Maine Coons, etc., are priced higher due to responsible breeding.

  • Demand & Popularity – High-demand breeds like Ragdolls and Maine Coons are pricier.

  • Rescue vs Breeder – Adoption is significantly cheaper but has limited breed availability.

Conclusion

Buying a cat in the UK is an exciting journey, but knowing the true cost of ownership is essential. Whether you’re buying from a breeder or adopting, always choose a reputable source to ensure you get a healthy, well-socialized cat.

If you’re open to adoption, check with local rescues first—you might find your perfect feline friend at a fraction of the price. If you’re set on a pedigree kitten, research your breeder carefully and be prepared for waiting lists.

No matter your choice, your future cat will bring you years of love and companionship!