The Cost of White Cats: Factors That Affect Their Price

White cats are often regarded as symbols of purity and elegance, with their pristine coats and striking appearance. If you’ve ever considered adding a white cat to your family, you might wonder how much it will cost. However, the price of a white cat can vary significantly depending on various factors, from the breed to the breeder’s reputation. In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into all the aspects that affect the cost of white cats, helping you make an informed decision before bringing one into your home.

How much does a white cat cost?

The cost of a white cat can vary widely based on factors such as breed, breeder reputation, coat quality, and location. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $3,000 for a white cat from a reputable breeder. Adoption fees at shelters may range from $50 to $150. However, prices can be higher for certain rare breeds or specific characteristics.

Factor	Price Range
Breed	Varies widely (see breeds below)
Breeder Reputation	$500 – $3,000 or more
Coat Quality	$500 – $2,500 or more
Age (Kitten vs. Adult)	$50 – $3,000 or more
Gender	Minimal price difference

White Cat Breed Examples:

Breed	Average Price Range
Persian	$1,000 – $6,000 or more
Siamese	$400 – $2,000 or more
Maine Coon	$1,000 – $2,500 or more
Ragdoll	$800 – $2,500 or more
Scottish Fold	$800 – $3,000 or more

1. Breed Matters

One of the primary factors influencing the cost of a white cat is its breed. Different cat breeds come with their unique characteristics, personalities, and price tags. Some white cat breeds are more rare and sought-after than others, and this rarity often drives up their price. Let’s explore some popular white cat breeds and their price ranges:

A. Persian Cats

Persian cats, known for their long, luxurious fur and sweet disposition, are one of the most expensive white cat breeds. A purebred white Persian cat from a reputable breeder can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $6,000 or more.

B. Siamese Cats

Siamese cats are known for their striking blue almond-shaped eyes and distinctive color points. White Siamese cats are relatively rare and can range from $400 to $2,000, depending on the breeder’s reputation and the cat’s pedigree.

C. Maine Coon Cats

Maine Coon cats, with their large size and friendly nature, are a beloved breed. White Maine Coons can cost between $1,000 and $2,500, depending on their lineage and breeder.

D. Ragdoll Cats

Ragdolls are known for their placid temperament and striking blue eyes. White Ragdoll cats typically fall in the range of $800 to $2,500, with prices varying based on the breeder’s quality.

E. Scottish Fold Cats

The distinctive folded ears of Scottish Fold cats make them stand out. White Scottish Folds can cost between $800 and $3,000, with pedigree and breeder reputation playing a significant role in the price.

2. Breeder Reputation

The reputation of the breeder is another crucial factor in determining the cost of a white cat. Reputable breeders invest time and resources in maintaining the health and well-being of their cats, which often leads to higher prices. However, purchasing from a reputable breeder also ensures that you are getting a healthy and well-socialized cat.

Reputable breeders typically provide:

• Vaccination records
• Health guarantees
• Pedigree papers
• Socialization and early training
• A clean and safe living environment

Avoid purchasing from backyard breeders or pet stores, as these sources may offer cats at lower prices but often compromise on the cat’s health and genetic quality.

3. Coat Quality

The quality of the cat’s white coat can influence its price. A pristine, pure white coat without any discolorations or markings is highly sought after. Cats with rare coat patterns or markings, such as bicolor or van patterns, may be priced higher due to their unique appearance.

Additionally, coat length can also affect the price. Long-haired white cats, like the Persian and Maine Coon, typically cost more than short-haired breeds due to the grooming requirements associated with their fur.

4. Age of the Cat

The age of the cat can significantly impact its price. Kittens are usually more expensive than adult cats, as they require extensive care and vaccinations during their early months. If you’re open to adopting an older white cat, you may find a more budget-friendly option through rescue organizations or shelters.

5. Gender

The gender of the cat can sometimes play a role in pricing. In some cases, male white cats may be less expensive than females. However, this price difference is not significant and should not be the sole factor in your decision.

Additional Costs

When calculating the cost of bringing a white cat into your home, it’s essential to consider the ongoing expenses associated with cat ownership. These include:

• Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency care can add up. You should budget for annual veterinary expenses.
• Food and Supplies: High-quality cat food, litter, toys, and other supplies are ongoing costs that you need to factor in.
• Grooming: Long-haired white cats may require professional grooming services, which can be an additional expense.
• Pet Insurance: Consider investing in pet insurance to help cover unexpected medical expenses.
• Spaying/Neutering: If your cat is not already spayed or neutered, you should budget for this procedure.
• Training and Socialization: Kittens, in particular, may require training and socialization classes, which can incur extra costs.

FAQs

How rare is a white cat? White cats are not extremely rare, but their prevalence can vary depending on the region and breed. In the general cat population, white cats make up a small percentage, but they are not considered exceptionally rare.

Are white cats more expensive? White cats’ cost can vary widely based on factors like breed, breeder reputation, and coat quality. While white cats are not inherently more expensive, some white cat breeds, due to their rarity and demand, may come with a higher price tag.

How rare is a white cat with blue eyes? White cats with blue eyes are relatively rare. The combination of a pure white coat and deep blue eyes is less common compared to other coat and eye color combinations.

How much is the diamond eye cat? There is no specific breed known as a “diamond eye cat.” The cost of a cat with unique or striking eyes, such as blue or odd-eyed cats, can vary depending on factors like breed, breeder reputation, and other characteristics.

What is the rarest cat color? The rarest cat color is generally considered to be “chinchilla” or “shell” in Persian cats, where the fur is pale silver with white undercoat. However, rarity can vary by region and breed.

Why are white cats special? White cats are often considered special due to their striking appearance and association with purity and elegance. They are also known for their beautiful coat colors and unique eye colors, such as blue or odd-eyed variations.

What is the cheapest cat? The cost of a cat can vary widely, but in general, domestic shorthair cats and cats available for adoption from shelters or rescue organizations tend to be more affordable compared to purebred or specialty breed cats.

How long do white cats live? White cats, like other cats, typically have a lifespan of around 12-15 years or longer with proper care. The specific lifespan can vary depending on genetics, diet, healthcare, and living conditions.

What is a pure white cat? A pure white cat is one that has a completely white coat without any markings, patterns, or colors. Their coat is entirely white, which gives them their distinctive appearance.

Are white cats lucky? In various cultures, white cats are often considered symbols of good luck and purity. However, beliefs about the luck associated with white cats can vary from one culture to another.

Are white cats deaf? White cats with blue eyes, especially those with a predominantly white coat and two blue eyes, have a higher likelihood of being deaf. This is due to a genetic link between coat color and deafness, particularly in cats with the white coat gene (W gene).

Can white cats go outside? White cats can go outside like any other cat, but it’s important to ensure their safety. Outdoor cats may be exposed to various risks, such as traffic, predators, and diseases. Many cat owners choose to keep their white cats indoors or provide them with safe, enclosed outdoor spaces to prevent potential harm.

Conclusion

In summary, the cost of a white cat can vary widely based on factors such as breed, breeder reputation, coat quality, age, and gender. While the initial purchase price is essential to consider, it’s equally important to budget for ongoing expenses related to cat ownership. Remember that a higher upfront cost for a well-bred and healthy white cat can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful pet ownership experience in the long run.

Before making a decision, research different breeds, visit reputable breeders or rescue organizations, and carefully assess your budget and lifestyle to ensure that bringing a white cat into your home is a responsible and enjoyable choice. Ultimately, the love and companionship of a white cat can be priceless, regardless of the initial investment.