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10 Most Affordable Cat Breeds (With Pictures)

Written by: Christian Adams

Last Updated on January 8, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

siamese cat with blue eyes

10 Most Affordable Cat Breeds (With Pictures)

There are many different cat breeds out there. While they might not be as well-known as dog breeds, cats can differ quite a bit. You have “average” cats like American Shorthairs, and then you also have famous breeds like Persians.

Some cat breeds are incredibly expensive, but others are incredibly affordable. In this article, we’ll look at some of the best cat breeds that are also within reach for most families. We’ll look at things like the Oriental Shorthairs and the Manx.

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The 10 Least Expensive Cat Breeds

1. Oriental Shorthair

Oriental Shorthair Cat
Image Credit: Tania Van den Berghen, Pixabay

This purebred cat only costs between $400–$500. However, they look quite exotic and have huge, adorable ears. They are a close relative to the Siamese cat and have a similar body shape. They are also incredibly intelligent. They can be trained to do basic tricks and love puzzle toys.

They are a very social breed and are very family. They get along with practically every person and pet, making them a perfect cat for families. They are very friendly with guests as well.


2. Turkish Van

white turkish van with curly tail
Image Credit: Gabriele M. Reinhardt, Pixabay

This is a less-known breed. However, they’re soft, fluffy, and adorable. They only cost about $200 and made them one of the cheaper cat breeds on the market. They are very active, so they’re perfect for homes with preschoolers who love playing. This playtime wears them down as well, which will help them be better behaved indoors.

They also love playing in water, which makes them unique.


3. Manx

Manx Cat
Image Credit: spicetree687, Pixabay

Manx look like average “cats.” They have a round body and round face. However, they have no tail. They are adventurous and innovative. They can’t necessarily be trained like some other breeds. But they do like puzzle toys and exploration. They’re the cat that will somehow end up in your air duct at 5:00 in the morning!

They are also devoted companions and enjoy attention, though they aren’t exactly cuddly.


4. Havana Brown

Havana Brown cat
Image Credit: Dave Scelfo, Wikimedia Commons

These cats look unique. They have a more massive muzzle than most cats, which makes them look unique. They look a bit “concerned”. However, they are incredibly active and fun-loving. They are very curious and love playing. They thrive on attention.

These cats will greet you at the door like a dog.


5. Himalayan

Himalayan cat lying on floor
Image By: MULTI ILHAM ANUGRIYA, Shutterstock

The Himalayan looks like a mix between a Siamese and a Persian. However, they are much cheaper than either of those breeds. They only cost about $300. This low price makes them very popular. They are not particularly active and prefer to cuddle than everything. If you want a fluffy cat to lay in your lap, this is a reliable option.

They do require regular brushing to prevent matting. However, they are quite laidback, so this is less difficult than it sounds.


6. Ragdoll

Ragdoll
Image Credit: monicore, Pixabay

These cats can be very expensive, or they can be inexpensive. Pet varieties can cost as little as $400. Different breeders can charge wildly different amounts. If you want to save money, you need to find a breeder that breeds these cats to be pets, not for the show ring.

These felines are very inexpensive and mellow. They tend just to lay around all day. They go limp in your arms when cuddling, which is where they get their name from.


7. Snowshoe

Snowshoe Siamese in the garden
Image Credit: Tawach, Shutterstock

This cat has a fluffy coat and adorable white feet, hence its name. The history of this breed is uncertain. However, it is believed to have been initially bred in the United States, making it pretty inexpensive in this area. They have varied personalities. Sometimes they are shy, but other times that can be too loveable. It just depends on the particular cat.

They are a bit “intense”, according to some owners.


8. Cornish Rex

Cornish Rex
Image Credit: duodenum82, Pixabay

Out of all the inexpensive cat breeds we’ve reviewed, the Cornish Rex is the most exotic-looking. They are thin and have excellent acrobatic skills. They are fast, and it isn’t uncommon for them to run around in the wee hours of the morning. They are also outgoing and playful. They tend to be a bit kitten-like, as well. They don’t grow up.

They are great with children, as they are quite gentle. They are very patient and will happily sit there while a toddler figures out how to play with them.


9. Siamese

siamese cat with blue eyes
Image Credit: chromatos, Shutterstock

These cats are famous, but they are relatively inexpensive. They only cost about $200. They are an ancient breed and likely appeared around the 1300s. They love attention and are very loveable. They love to play, cuddle, and do whatever their family is up to at the time!

Their attentiveness makes them a trendy family cat.


10. Burmese

Burmese Cat
Image Credit: Ivanova N, Shutterstock

Burmese are a bit more expensive. They are anywhere between $500 to $1,000. They have striking eyes, which are golden. They are absolutely lap cats, but they do enjoy gentle playtime. They are great for households with children.


Featured Image Credit: Lucie K, Shutterstock

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