How Much Does An Abyssinian Cat Cost?

Last Updated on June 27, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

With their distinctive ticked coats, large ears, and regal bearing, Abyssinian cats never fail to make a striking impression. Their lively, affectionate personalities have also made them increasingly popular as pets over recent decades. But what exactly is the full cost and financial commitment involved with bringing one of these unique felines home?

Certain influencing factors like pedigree, breeder reputation, geography, and the cat’s age can cause prices to vary significantly. There are also considerable ongoing ownership costs to factor in for food, medical care, supplies, and other essential needs.

This guide examines the diverse cost considerations of owning an Abyssinian cat, including purchase fees, adoption options, budgeting strategies for care and upkeep, health insurance alternatives, and projected expenses over the lifetime of your feline companion. With realistic planning and budgeting, sharing your home with these eye-catching, affectionate cats can absolutely be affordable and incredibly rewarding.

How Much Does An Abyssinian Cat Cost?

The cost to purchase an Abyssinian kitten or cat is, on average, between $1,500 to $3,000+.

As a pedigreed purebred cat, Abyssinian kittens and cats command premium pricing from breeders and stores compared to mixed breed cats. You can expect to pay:

Newborn and Young Kittens – $1,500 to $3,000+

6–12-Month-Old Kittens – $1,000 to $2,500

1-3 Year Adult Cats – $800 to $2,000

Senior Cats – $500 to $1,000

Show Quality/Champion Lines – $3,000+

Shelter adoption and rescued Abyssinians typically cost $100 to $250. Understand that responsibly bred Abyssinians merit higher initial fees given health, socialization, and breed preservation.

According to The Spruce Pets, the average cost of an Abyssinian cat in the US ranges from $800 to $1,500 for a kitten from a reputable breeder. They note that the price can vary depending on factors such as the cat’s lineage, show quality, and any additional registration or breeding rights. The Spruce Pets also mentions that Abyssinians may have higher ongoing costs due to their grooming needs and potential health issues.

PetMD reports that the average price for an Abyssinian kitten in the US is between $800 and $1,200. They highlight that the cost can be influenced by the cat’s pedigree, the breeder’s reputation, and any additional features like show quality or breeding rights. PetMD also advises potential Abyssinian owners to factor in the ongoing expenses for food, litter, veterinary care, and grooming, which can add several hundred dollars per year to the overall cost of owning an Abyssinian.

CatTime states that the average price for an Abyssinian cat in the US ranges from $800 to $1,500, with show-quality kittens potentially costing even more. They note that reputable breeders often have waiting lists, and buyers may need to be prepared to travel to pick up their new Abyssinian.

Kitty Catter reports that the typical cost of an Abyssinian kitten in the US is between $800 and $1,200, with show-quality kittens potentially costing up to $1,500 or more.

Buying a Cat from a Reputable Breeder

The ideal way to bring home a healthy, well-socialized Abyssinian kitten is through a responsible, registered breeder. When pricing breeder kittens, be sure to factor in:

Purchase Price – $1,500 to $3,000+ depending on pedigree and rarity

Transportation and Delivery Fees – $300 to $500+ for shipping with climate control and handling

Breeder Vet Screening – $100 to $300 for genetic, disease, and personality testing

Spay/Neuter – $100 to $500 if not already done

Initial Veterinary Exam – $75 to $200 for a post-adoption wellness check

Supplies – $200 to $500+ for litter boxes, food, bed, toys, grooming tools, and other essentials

Total Initial Cost – $2,500 to $5,000+

Always thoroughly validate breeder credentials, visit facilities in-person when possible, and ensure kittens have received proper veterinary care and socialization. Reputable breeding enables the continuation of pedigree lines.

You might also like our articles about the cost of Bombay cats, Nebelung cats, or Persian cats.

Adopting an Abyssinian Cat

For those seeking a more affordable way to welcome an Abyssinian in need of a new home, adoption can offer huge savings:

Adoption Fees – $50 to $250 at most shelters and rescues

Initial Vet Care – $100 to $500 for a health check, vaccines, spay/neuter, and any treatment

Supplies – $200 to $500+ for necessities like food, litter, bedding, grooming tools, and toys

Total Initial Adoption Cost – $350 to $1,250+

Always ask the organization about the cat’s health and temperament. Review medical records. Inquire if any training or behavioral intervention will be needed.

Ongoing Ownership Costs

In addition to upfront acquisition costs, responsible pet parents must financially plan for ongoing care over their cat’s lifespan:

Quality Food – $150 to $400+ annually for premium cat food and treats

Routine Vet Care – $400 to $800+ annually including exams, vaccines, tests

Dental Care – $200 to $400+ annually for cleanings and dental work

Grooming – $50 to $500 annually for nail trims, brushes, bathing supplies

Toys and Supplies – $50 to $200+ annually for replacement items

Pet Insurance – $500 to $1,000+ annually for comprehensive accident and illness coverage

Total Annual Costs – $1,500 to $3,500+

Emergency care, medications, boarding, damage repairs, and other surprise costs will also occur. Budget accordingly.

Medical Care Costs

Like all cats, Abyssinians require regular preventative veterinary care for optimal lifelong health:

Kitten Vaccinations Series – $75 to $150 for core vaccines and initial deworming

Spay/Neuter Surgery – $100 to $500+ depending on gender, age, and geographic region

Annual Exams – $100 to $300+ for once yearly wellness exams

Vaccine Boosters – $75 to $150+ annually for updated rabies and core vaccines

Dental Cleanings and Oral Health – $200 to $800+ annually for dental x-rays, teeth cleanings, extractions, medications, and home care

Emergency Medical Fund – $1,000+ reserved for any urgent injuries or conditions

Watch out for potential breed-specific health issues like gingivitis and heart disease. Purchase pet insurance and have an emergency savings fund.

Pet Insurance to Manage Costs

Given their active natures, pet insurance is wise for being ready to cover unpredictable veterinary costs:

Average Monthly Premiums – $20 to $100+ depending on age, breed, policy limits

Annual Payout Maximums – $5,000 to unlimited coverage

Common Claims – Accidents, illnesses, cancer, hereditary conditions, surgeries, hospitalization

Reimbursement Amounts – 90% back on eligible bills after deductible met

Compare insurance plans on costs, reimbursement rates, exclusions, and customer service when choosing optimal coverage.

Budgeting Tips

• Research all ownership costs before committing
• Purchase from responsible, ethical sources
• Find breeder discounts for spay/neuter
• Maintain preventative care to avoid big bills
• Insure your cat for accidents and emergencies
• Start a dedicated savings fund for vet expenses

With diligent planning and budgeting, welcoming an Abyssinian into your family can absolutely be affordable.

Should You Get Pet Financing?

Some owners consider financing options to spread costs over time. But this comes at a big price:

Pros

• Spreads adoption fees and urgent treatment over 6-24 months
• Provides immediate funding approval for expensive procedures

Cons

• Total interest costs often exceed 10-30%+ of the amount financed
• Miss out on cash/check payment discounts at vets
• Risk overspending and endless debt cycles

Pet insurance avoids interest and covers both routine and catastrophic costs. Weigh options carefully.

Finding an Abyssinian

Here are some tips for locating an Abyssinian cat within your budget:

• Check local shelters, rescues, and humane societies first
• Partner with regional Abyssinian specific rescue groups
• Be open to adult cats or senior cats
• Set up alerts at shelters to be contacted about any Abyssinians brought in
• Avoid backyard breeders with unknown reputation and pet stores/mills
• Consider an Abyssinian mix if you have flexibility on pedigree
• Set Google alerts for local classifieds and listings
• Research pricing thoroughly online to set realistic expectations

With flexibility on age and proactive searching, you can find your ideal Abyssinian companion at a price that fits your budget.

Itemizing the Major Expenses

To determine if this striking breed aligns with your budget and lifestyle, tally the major projected costs below over your cat’s 15+ year lifespan:

One-Time Upfront Fees

• Purchase price or adoption fee: $100 – $3,000
• Initial supplies and veterinary care: $500 – $2,000

Annual Care Expenses

• High-quality food: $200 – $500+
• Routine veterinary visits: $400 – $1,000
• Dental cleanings: $200 – $400
• Vaccines and medications: $100 – $300
• Grooming and supplies: $50 – $500
• Insurance premiums: $300 – $1,200

15 Year Lifetime Costs

• $15,000 – $45,000+

While not inexpensive, these costs help ensure a lifetime of quality care and companionship.

Final Words

From their regal bearing to their affectionate loyalty, Abyssinian cats make wonderful albeit not inexpensive pets. Yet armed with realistic expense knowledge, a careful budget, and responsible planning, the costs become manageable.

Finding an ethical, healthy kitten or cat within your financial means just takes diligence and patience. Soon enough, your new ticked tabby pal will fill your days with joy and companionship that far outweighs the financial outlay involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Abyssinian cats have health problems?

Abyssinians are generally healthy but can be prone to gingivitis. Annual dental cleanings help prevent issues. Some lines may face inherited conditions like heart defects, so ask breeders about parent health and genetic testing.

Are Abyssinian cats endangered?

No, Abyssinian cats are not endangered. Their global population is small since they are a purebred but active breeding ensures they are not at risk of disappearing. Responsible breeding maintains their genetic diversity.

Are Abyssinian cats high energy?

Yes, Abyssinians are extremely active and playful. They demand substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Be ready to provide cat trees, toys, play sessions, and even leashed walks to match their needs. This makes them better suited to active households.