1. The Ashera – $125,000
DNA tests have indicated that these are actually Savannah cats, but
these have not stopped Ashera lovers from praising the beauty of this
feline creature. The Ashera is not a pure bred cat in the real sense of
the word, as it is a result of the hybrid of genes from several cats,
namely the domestic housecat, the Asian leopard cat, and the African
serval. The result is a domesticated cat that looks just like a leopard.
The Lifestyle Pets Company, the company that created the cat, breeds
only five Asheras each year. The ones with patterns similar to a snow
leopard are sold for as much as $125,000. The other Asheras can be had
for as low as $22,000, though the average price has hovered at around
the $28,000 range. The Lifestyle Pets Company has recently focused on
the creation of hypoallergenic Asheras, however, costing $37,000 each.
It is still much more than what you would pay for an average cat, but
then again, the Ashera is more than just your average cat.
2. The Bengal – $42,000
Bengals are not that rare, with almost 60,000 of this breed all over
the world. Its beauty, however, was enough for an Englishwoman named
Cindy Jackson to pay $42,000 for a Bengal cat in 1998. The cat was named
Fur Ball, and it definitely cost more than a ball of money.
The Bengal is a result of a hybrid between domestic cats and the
Asian Leopard Cat, or the ALC. Its scientific name is the Prionailurus
Bengalensis Bengalensis, thus the name Bengal. Their coating is similar
to that of the magnificent leopard, though its shape and nature resemble
that of a domestic cat. The Bengal is extremely popular because of its
wild appearance that features large spots, light tummy and rosettes,
just like the Asian leopard. Its temperament would become similar to a
domestic cat once it is removed by at least three generations.
Experts advise, however, that Bengals be kept as pets only if it is
removed by four generations already. The first three generations should
be used for breeding purposes only.
3. The Savannah – $22,000
The Savannah is a hybrid cat out of a domestic cat and the African
serval. It was created in 1986. A first generation savannah that is half
serval can cost as much as $22,000. The value can go down, as the
generation gap from the first gets farther.
The Savannah is a large domestic cat. Though slim, the cat’s tall
built gives it the appearance of an imposing size that is greater than
its actual weight. Just like the price, the size will go down as the
generations start to pile up. Some countries do not allow it to be owned
domestically, however, so be sure to check first with your local animal
board. Australia, for one, does not allow Savannahs to become pets.
If you do buy this cat, however, take special precautions because of
the Savannah’s tremendous leaping ability. It can jump as high as 8 feet
even from a standing position, meaning refrigerators, high shelves and
cabinets and tops of doors are fair games for them. Its inquisitive
nature also allows it to open doors, cabinets, and cupboards.
The Savannah is a very sociable cat so long as it is properly exposed
to people and other pets while growing up. It is loyal to its master,
and it may hiss upon seeing an unknown person.
4. The Sphynx – $3,000
Also known as the alien cat, the Sphynx is a seemingly hairless breed
that emerged in Canada in 1966. Its skin is like chamois, and it is
usually covered with vellus hair. The lack of pelt, however, means that
it has a tendency of cuddling up against people and other animals to
keep itself warm. It features a strong body, heads shaped like a wedge
and potbellies.
The Sphynx is an extremely intelligent breed. It likes to climb and
is very lively. It does require a lot of attention, but it more than
makes up for it by its loyalty.
5. The Peterbald – $3,000
The Peterbald is just like the Sphynx, only it developed in Russia
instead of Canada. Its main feature is its blue eyes. It is affectionate
and energetic, and can live peacefully with other pets. It is also a
loyal cat, as Peterbalds are known to follow its owners wherever it
goes.
The cat is well built, though in a graceful and elegant way. Its ears
are set apart, while its eyes are shaped like almonds. It can hold on
to objects and even open doors using its webbed feet and oval paws.
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