The cost of a Bengal cat is quite hefty for a household pet. However, many fanatics still choose to own this exotic feline despite its high price tag.
If you’re curious to know how much it costs to have a pet Bengal kitten, this guide is for you.
Most Bengal kittens have uniquely patterned coats, which they inherit from the Asian Leopard cats. Additionally, the rarity of these cats makes them extremely desirable.
Are you interested in buying a Bengal cat? Stick around to learn more about the nitty-gritty of Bengal cat costs and expenses. Let’s start!
The Average Cost of a Bengal Cat
A purebred Bengal kitten from a reputable breeder costs around $1,500 to $3,000. This range varies depending on several factors, such as the breeder’s reputation and the Bengal’s coat color and pattern. Generally, show-quality Bengal cats are priced higher, ranging from $2,800 to $4,800.
If you are looking to save some cash, you can buy pet-quality Bengal cats for a few thousand dollars less. Pet-quality Bengal kittens cost around $1,500 to $2,500; however, this can still vary depending on some factors.
Compared to other cats like British Shorthairs, Norwegian Forest Cats, Siamese cats, and Ragdolls, the Bengal cat is a hard find.
This is because these cats are linked to the wild Asian Leopard cat, making Bengals challenging to produce.
Because of this, Bengal cats often come with a hefty price tag. However, you’ll be surprised that the cost of maintaining a Bengal kitten is comparable to other breeds. You’ll learn more about this in a later section of this guide.
Factors Affecting the Cost of a Bengal Kitten
It comes as no surprise that a Bengal cat costs more than most breeds. To understand their pricing further, a pet owner must know the factors that affect the Bengal kitten price.
Here is a comprehensive list of factors affecting the price of Bengal cats:
Pedigree: Bengal kitten breeders produce purebred cats that can either be pets or for shows. Typically, the kittens from champion bloodlines are those considered show-quality. These cats are priced higher than pet-quality ones.
Breeder Quality and Reputation: Breeding Bengal cats is not a simple task. It takes experienced and responsible breeders to handle the Bengal cat’s wild ancestors and breed them properly to produce a domestic cat. If you’re buying a Bengal from a reputable breeder, expect to pay more.
Genetic Testing and Health Checkups: Bengal kittens that are genetically tested for any diseases are often pricier. Cats with health certificates and guarantees are also more costly. However, despite the price, it is still recommended to get a cat that underwent health checks.
Age: Bengal kittens are more expensive because most people want to witness their pets grow up. They can also train them much easier and hone their behavior themselves. Because of this, you should expect to see Bengal kittens priced a few hundred dollars more than older Bengal cats.
Color and Pattern: The Bengal’s coat coloration and patterns also affect its price. Silver, snow, and blue Bengal cats are pricier than other coat colors. Those with arrowhead rosette patterns and the seal lynx marbled silver are also expected to cost more than spotted ones. That said, get a more common coat coloration if you want to save money.
The factors mentioned above are some things that affect the price of Bengal cats. These factors also make the Bengal one of the most expensive cat breeds out there.
Other factors affecting the Bengal cat price are shipping, registration, paperwork, and more. Some breeders also consider gender and breeding rights. All of these can also drive up the cost of Bengal cats.
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Bengal From a Rescue?
If you don’t want to buy a Bengal kitten from a breeder, you can go to your local cat rescue and adopt one instead. Adoption fees for Bengal kittens will only run you between $100 and $300.
This adoption fee usually covers all medical expenses, including spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping.
In addition, since rescues make sure that their cats are in the best shape before adoption, you don’t have to worry about their overall health.
Rescues and shelters also offer basic house training for their rescued cats. This training usually includes potty training, command training, and more.
If you’re adopting a senior Bengal cat, it’s best to ask about specific health issues and special needs that you may need to attend to. A reliable rescue organization will openly provide these details before any transaction.
Initial Cost of Bengal Cat Ownership
Before you adopt or buy a Bengal kitten, you should prepare the initial items it needs for its growth and development. These items will also help your new cat adjust to its new home.
Here is a list of things you need to prepare for a Bengal cat’s transition to its new home:
Food and Treats: One of your priorities is to provide your Bengal with nutritious food. Many breeders include the initial supply of cat food. However, some Bengal cats prefer wet food or raw food. All in all, food and treats for Bengal cats will cost you $20 to $50 initially.
Food and Water Bowls: A good food and water bowl will allow you to feed your Bengal cat the right portion and keep them hydrated throughout the day. It is recommended to invest in those stainless bowls rather than plastic ones. Feeding bowls cost around $10 to $25.
Litter Box: To begin potty training, you need to purchase a litter box that usually costs around $20 to $160. When choosing a litter box, make sure to consider your cat’s size. Since Bengal cats are larger, they will need bigger litter boxes than smaller non-hybrid breeds.
Litter Sand: Litter sand is another essential item to have if you plan on owning a Bengal cat. A pack of litter sand will set you back between $15 and $25. Keep in mind that this is a recurring expense you need to buy regularly.
Collar and ID Tag: To identify your Bengal cat quickly, give them a collar and an ID tag. These things are super helpful if ever your cat gets lost. Most Bengal catteries give these out for free; however, you can purchase a collar and ID tag on your own for around $5 to $20.
Cat Bed: Your Bengal cat sleeps for an average of 16 hours a day. Hence, it is important to buy a high-quality bed for it. For $15 to $30, you can already purchase a comfy resting place for your kitty. Just keep in mind that your Bengal can grow as large as a Maine Coon, so better get a big bed!
Cat Carrier: If you want to take your cat with you while traveling, you need to have a sturdy and comfortable carrier. Carriers also come in handy when you’re bringing your cat to the vet or grooming salon. You need to prepare around $20 to $60 for a cat carrier.
Toys and Scratching Post: For keeping your Bengal cat in shape and mentally stimulated, you need to provide it with cat toys. These toys will not only help them keep an active lifestyle but are also a great way to spend time together. You can buy some toys and a scratching post for around $15 to $70.
Grooming Essentials: While cats have a natural way of cleaning themselves, you also need to bathe them every once in a while. A cat shampoo helps remove dirt, oils, and fleas. In addition, you’ll also need a hairbrush, nail clippers, and a hair trimmer. In total, a cat grooming kit will set you back between $25 and $35.
Initial Vet Visits: Your cat will need regular visits to the vet to ensure that they are healthy and growing at the right pace. This is especially true for younger cats that need vaccine shots and other medical procedures. A year’s worth of vet consultations can cost you around $100 to $250
Initial Vaccination Shots: Usually, breeders cover the initial vaccine shots for their cats. However, different breeders may have different inclusions. On some occasions, you may need to shell out for initial vaccine shots out of pocket. Expect to spend around $25 to $50 on these.
Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Medications: Aside from vaccinations, your Bengal kitten will also need preventive medication for ticks, fleas, and worms. Without these, your cat will not grow healthy. This is especially true if you have other pets that may be carriers of these parasites. Over-the-counter meds will run you $30 to $100.
Neutering or Spaying: Depending on what age you get your cat, it may or may not be intact. If it is, then you would need to shoulder the cost of neutering or spaying. These procedures are highly effective in reducing the chances of your cat developing health problems. The cost of neutering/spaying Bengal cats ranges between $200 and $500.
Microchip: Microchipping your Bengal cat is a precautionary measure that can help identify your pet once they get lost. The procedure, as well as the registration of your cat’s information to a database, will run you around $40 to $60.
Miscellaneous Supplies: Cat lovers may fancy buying things like cat accessories, cat clothes, pet trackers, and more. For extra costs and expenses like these, expect to shell out anywhere from $15 to $30 initially.
Here is a tabulated version of the initial expenses associated with owning a Bengal cat:
The initial expenses listed above are mere estimates only. Keep in mind that your mileage may vary depending on the average price of these items and procedures in your area.
In addition, remember that Bengal cats are considered rare compared to other breeds. Hence, they may have special needs in terms of dietary requirements, medical procedures, etc.
However, you can still save money by asking your breeder for cost-effective brand suggestions regarding cat food and other supplies.
Alternatively, you can also scout for deals. Usually, some breeders include free accessories, packs of cat food, or other freebies for every cat purchase.
Annual Cost of Owning a Bengal Cat
For the first year of owning a Bengal cat, you need to prepare around $1,270 to $2,605. This estimated amount includes the yearly recurring costs of food and treats, litter sand, grooming essentials, vet bills, and more.
Below is a list of the items and services your Bengal cat needs during its first year:
As you can see, there are quite a lot of things you need to buy for your Bengal cat. However, some things on this list do not require yearly replacement, especially if you bought high-quality versions of them.
You’ll also notice that pet insurance takes up a big chunk of your annual budget. While some will be tempted to skip this, you shouldn’t. Pet insurance will save you in the event that your cat needs expensive medical treatment.
All in all, the annual cost of owning a Bengal cat is not far off compared to other cat breeds. In fact, the yearly cost of owning this part wild cat is comparable to the cost of owning a Toyger cat or a Manx cat.
Other Potential Expenses
After discussing the cost and basic needs of Bengal kittens, we move on to the other additional costs that owners should know. These consist of things like pet daycare, emergency treatment, and the like.
Here is a list of things you may need to pay for if you decide to get a Bengal kitten:
Pet Daycare or Pet Sitters: There are moments when taking your Bengal cat with you is just not an option. This can be a whole-day affair or a week-long vacation. For your cat to have company, you can bring them to a cat boarding facility or hire a pet sitter. The former costs around $20 to $40, while the latter may charge $15 to $40 per night.
Pet Deposit Fee: Not all landlords allow pets in their apartment units, so if you live in an apartment, you better check first. Pet deposit fees serve as insurance that covers potential damage that your Bengal cat may cause. Normally, this will run you $30 to $100 per month.
Emergency Treatment: Your Bengal cat can also get into dangerous situations that will require emergency treatment. This may be brought about by underlying health problems or accidents. The cost for emergency treatment will set you back between $800 and $1,500.
Grooming: To maintain the shine and softness of your Bengal cat, you should take them to a grooming salon. This is still optional, given that you can groom your pet at home. If you still want to pamper your dog for a day, you can pay around $50 to $80 for full grooming service.
Permit to Own: If you live in one of the states where Bengal cats are illegal, you will need to secure an extra permit to own one. That said, permits may cost upwards of $100; however, it varies a lot, so it’s better to ask your local management. Also, some states, such as Nebraska, Georgia, and Rhode Island, do not allow Bengal cats at all.
Most of the expenses above are optional. It is possible that you will not spend a single dollar on these things. However, it is still worthwhile to learn about them.
It is also wise to have an emergency fund for your Bengal cat. Start with a few hundred dollars and save up to at least a thousand dollars. This way, you are always assured that you will be prepared for any emergency expenses.
Places to Find Bengal Kittens for Sale and Adoption
Your pursuit of finding a Bengal kitten starts with a good and trustworthy person who is in the business of breeding cats.
It is preferred that you choose reputable breeders with good reviews. Avoid a backyard breeder or an unethical breeder at all costs, as they may offer you unhealthy kittens.
To help you out, below are some of the best places to find Bengal cats for sale:
Sakura Bengals – Sakura Bengals is one of many home-based Bengal catteries in North Carolina. Their quality Bengal kittens are all raised with them and trained as early as six weeks old. These cats are also fed a high-quality raw food diet.
Wild n Sweet Bengals – This is another family-owned responsible cattery that has been breeding exceptional kittens since 2010. All of their Bengal kittens are registered with The International Cat Association (TICA). You can learn more information about the breed in general on their website.
Rio Grande Bengals – When you buy a Bengal kitten from this breeder, you can ensure that they will have TICA registration papers, vaccination records, a health guarantee, and even some new toys for entertainment. All of their Bengal kittens are F5 generation, which means they are more domesticated than wild.
Pedigree Bengals – This is a top-class Bengal breeder certified by both TICA and the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). They are an ethical breeder that doesn’t allow visits to their facility to see their current or upcoming litter. But you can see your reserved Bengal kittens through facetime.
Here is a video of how a young woman successfully raised a Bengal cat that she bought from a breeder:
My story of adopting my bengal kitten<a href="https://youtu.be/x4DyGkXHI0Y" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.bubblypet.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2Fx4DyGkXHI0Y%2F0.jpg" alt="My story of adopting my bengal kitten" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
For those who want to adopt a Bengal cat and avoid pet stores, you can find one from these rescue groups:
Bengal Rescue – As a rescue committed to saving the Bengal cat breed, they closely work with other groups and individuals to transport, foster, and provide medical treatment for these adult cats. Owners of rescued cats are asked to shoulder the veterinary expenses.
Great Lakes Bengal Rescue – Those who wish to adopt from the following states can submit an application to Great Lakes Bengal Rescue: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. They have rehomed over 800 Bengals since 2011, so you’ll be sure to find a suitable match for you!
Specialty Cat Breed Rescue – As the largest foster-based rescue group in the Midwest, this organization specializes in finding permanent families for different purebred cats and domestic cats, including female and male Bengal kittens. Appointments can be scheduled to see the adopter’s chosen Bengal cat once their application has been approved.
Whether you buy or adopt the Bengal cat breed, you will need to have enough patience to wait for the approval of the breeder or rescue volunteer.
Remember that they both need to review your profile first before you can take home your new adult Bengal.
Money-Saving Tips for Bengal Cat Owners
Purchasing a Bengal kitten, along with the expenses of maintaining one, can really cost you a lot. With house bills also piling up every month, cheaper alternatives can save you a few bucks.
Here are some practical tips that you can follow to save a few extra bucks if you are a Bengal owner:
Try to DIY toys and treats. Instead of buying new toys from pet stores, try making your own cat toys. These can be easily made with the things you have lying around the house. To save a couple more dollars, you can also make homemade treats that are healthier for your Bengal.
Invest in your cat’s essential items. Many owners buy cheap and low-quality products like beds, carriers, collars, and litter boxes for their cats to reduce costs. In the long run, you will be spending a lot more on replacing these items once they break. It’s best to purchase good products at a higher price since they will last longer.
Prioritize their health. Bengal cats are generally healthy felines. However, poor diet and no exercise can take a toll on their health. To prevent the expensive cost of medicine and treatment, they need to stay active and be fed with nutritious cat food.
Get pet insurance. In a separate section, we discussed the common health issues of Bengal cats and the cost of each treatment. Getting pet insurance that covers all these illnesses can save you a lot of money in the future in case your cat suffers from these conditions.
Keep your Bengal cat indoors. It is also recommended to keep your Bengal cat indoors so it won’t be at risk for vehicular accidents or other life-threatening situations that will require emergency treatment. Keep your house cat-proof as well for safety.
Do your online research. Learning about your Bengal cat doesn’t stop after purchase. By reading Bengal-related articles and forums about domesticated cats online, you can find some hacks or recommendations about cat food brands, vet clinics, and grooming salons.
For the frugal cat owners among us, money-saving tips are instant lifesavers. However, it’s important to spend less without sacrificing the overall quality of your Bengal cat’s life.
Final Thoughts
The price of Bengal kittens alone is considered an enormous sum of money as compared to the cost of most domesticated cat breeds. They aren’t cheap kittens, that’s for sure.
Add that value to the maintenance costs, and you’ll be looking into years of spending thousands of dollars for your pet. If you are financially capable of supporting your Bengal’s needs, getting them is totally worth it.
You’ll have a feline companion that is friendly, active, and fun. There will be no dull moment with this kitty around!
Of course, it goes without saying that aside from the financial aspect of owning a Bengal cat, your time, effort, and responsibility also matters.
So, are you getting a Bengal cat? Let us know your thoughts about the Bengal cat price in the comment section below!
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