Bengal kittens are highly sought after due to their exotic appearance, agility, and grace. No wonder, they are one of the most expensive cat breeds you can own. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, considering adopting an adult Bengal can be a good choice.
The price of Bengal cats can vary significantly, with some costing over a thousand dollars or more. The higher price tag is mainly due to their rarity as a breed. On average, Bengal kittens range in price from $600 to $2850, depending on their coat and coloration.
Before you set your heart on adopting a Bengal, it is important to understand that owning a Bengal comes with financial responsibilities. Understanding the prices for different types of Bengal cats can help you plan accordingly.
Bengal Kittens Cost
Actual Bengal kitten prices vary based on factors like local availability and care costs in your area. These estimates are based on average prices from Bengal Catteries. Prices range from $600 to $3,500 or more, depending on the kitten’s age and coat coloration rarity.
| Bengal Type | Brown Spotted | Brown Marbled | Seal Lynx Spotted | Seal Lynx Marbled | Silver Spotted | Silver Marbled | Mink Spotted |
| Kitten | $1750 and up | $1500 and up | $1750 and up | $1500 and up | $2750 and up | $2000 and up | $2500 and up |
| Adult | $700 and up | 750$ and up | $750 and up | $700 and up | $800 and up | $750 and up | $850 and up |
*Note: Breeders may use various terms to describe Bengal kitten coats, and terminology can vary. The following coat classifications are commonly used but may be referred to differently by different breeders.
The overall cost of a Bengal kitten can increase due to additional expenses, such as medical care and the provision of necessary equipment by the cattery. Responsible catteries often include toys and a litter box when sending the kitten home, which can contribute to the overall cost.
Coat color also plays a significant role in determining the cat’s price. The more exotic the color, such as spotted or marbled, the higher the price can be. Generally, you can expect to pay over $2000 for a Bengal kitten with such unique coat patterns. Not to forget, in most cases, Bengal kittens will cost more than adult cats.
Costs of Keeping a Bengal Kitten
Bengal cats are renowned for their exotic appearance and robust physique, making them highly demanded and costly. But why are Bengal kittens so expensive? Let’s explore the factors that contribute to their high price tag.
Up-Front Costs
Once you’ve adopted your Bengal kitten, you should be aware of other upfront costs to give your kitten the best start in its new home. These may include:
Vaccinations
Before purchasing a Bengal kitten, it’s crucial to inquire about their vaccination history. Vaccinations are essential to safeguard your kitten from potential infections and diseases. If your local breeder has not already provided vaccinations, you should anticipate an additional cost of approximately $80-$90 for this important procedure.
Microchipping
Microchipping your Bengal kitten is a recommended step during their first vet visit. This painless procedure involves inserting a small electronic device under their skin, costing around $15 to $30. While not legally required for cats, microchipping provides a reliable way to locate your kitten if they go missing.
Neutering
Neutering your Bengal kitten, especially females, is a recommended option to prevent unplanned litters and improve their behavior. Typically performed around four months of age, this simple procedure costs approximately $30 to $50 for females and $30 to $40 for males. It is a worthwhile investment for the long-term well-being of your Bengal kitten.
Costs for Daily Equipment
Along with the upfront costs of keeping a Bengal kitten, you must prepare to meet the daily requirements of your kitten, including:
Food
Bengal kittens have specific dietary needs due to their unique heritage. Protein should make up a significant portion of their daily food intake, ranging from 50% to 80%. The cost of their food can vary depending on the brand and your kitten’s appetite, typically ranging from 30p to 80p per day. It’s important to provide them with a high-quality diet that meets their nutritional requirements for optimal health.
Equipment
Bengal cats have a natural hunting instinct, making toys an essential part of their enrichment and entertainment. Investing in toys such as play mice, strings, fluffy balls, and scratching poles can satisfy their hunting needs.
Not only will these toys help your Bengal kitten exercise when indoors, but they will also prevent boredom and potential damage to your home. Including the cost of toys in your budget ensures a stimulating environment for your playful Bengal companion.
Monthly Costs
Additionally, factors like pet insurance, flea and tick prevention, and other unforeseen expenses should be considered. Planning for these monthly costs ensures that you can provide your Bengal cat with a healthy and happy life.
Flea and worming treatment
Regular flea and worming treatments are vital for your Bengal cat’s health. Administering monthly tablets helps protect against intestinal worms and prevents flea infestations and skin irritations.
Cat insurance
Consider getting a cat insurance policy for your Bengal kitten to safeguard against unforeseen illnesses or accidents. By paying a monthly fee, you can save on vet expenses and provide your kitten with comprehensive healthcare coverage for a long and healthy life.
Factors that Make Bengal Kittens Costly
Bengal Kittens Are Rare
While Bengal kittens are not rare in the traditional sense, they belong to a group of less common and exotic cat breeds. They are often compared to other rare breeds like Savannah cats, as well as popular but less common breeds such as Manx, Maine Coon, and Norwegian Forest Cats.
Bengal kittens are sought after not only because of their unique appearance but also because they require specific care. Although they can be found with relative ease, their price tag is typically higher compared to smaller non-hybrid breeds.
Bengal Kittens Are A Hybrid
Like Bengal kittens and Savannah kittens, hybrid kittens are rarer than other breeds, thanks to the breeding difficulty. Hybrids also have higher maintenance needs than other cat breeds, which adds to their cost.
Most breeds don’t allow kittens that are distantly related to a wild cat. That means that an Asian Leopard cat’s great-grandchild (kitten) might be eligible for breed inclusion.
Bengal kittens Aren’t Legal Everywhere
Legal restrictions can pose a significant barrier to increasing the population of Bengal kittens. Compared to other breeds, Bengal kittens are subject to stricter regulations in many states, and in some areas, breeding or ownership of Bengal cats is not permitted at all.
These legal barriers make it more challenging for breeders to establish and expand their Bengal breeding programs, resulting in a relatively smaller population of Bengal kittens. As a consequence, the rarity and limited availability of Bengal kittens contribute to their higher price in the market.
Breeder Incentive to Keep Bengals Rare + High Breeding Standards
Reputable catteries play a vital role in maintaining the quality and health of Bengal kittens. They have strict breeding standards and carefully select Bengals to avoid inbreeding. The rarity of Bengal kittens and the demand for them incentivize breeders to uphold these standards.
These kittens receive comprehensive care, including vaccinations, health checks, and often genetic testing. They are typically neutered and undergo basic training. As a result, Bengal kittens from reputable catteries come at a higher price to reflect the level of care and quality they receive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to buy a Bengal Kitten?
To find a Bengal kitten, it’s best to seek out a reputable breeder rather than relying on local pet stores unless they collaborate with cat shelters. When choosing a breeder, prioritize those who allow visits to their cattery, enabling you to assess the living conditions of the kittens and their parents.
Inquire about the training and medical care provided to the kittens, as responsible catteries often maintain a close relationship with veterinarians to ensure the animals’ health.
How can I buy a Bengal kitten?
Bengal kittens are commonly found at local catteries. Typically, pet owners reserve a kitten from a current or upcoming litter before meeting them. Understanding the terms of your contract is important, as only a portion of your deposit may be refundable. If you decide not to adopt the kitten, there may be adoption fees involved. Stay connected with your local breeder through social media and newsletters to stay informed about the availability of new Bengal kittens.
Can I find Bengal kittens at a lower price?
It is possible to find Bengal kittens at a lower price, especially if you are open to adopting from a rescue or shelter. These kittens may have varying backgrounds and may not come with pedigree papers, but they can still make wonderful companions. However, if you are seeking a specific breed standard and lineage, it’s more likely that you will need to invest in a higher-priced Bengal kitten from a reputable breeder.
