The Cheetoh cat is a relatively new and rare domestic kitty breed created by crossing a Bengal and an Ocicat. Cheetohs are known for their striking coat patterns, resembling wild cheetahs. They have distinctive, short, and soft coats in various colors and patterns, such as orange, brown, and black spots. This breed is not your average housecat, and they have a fairly hefty price tag.
Besides the price of a Cheetoh kitten, prospective owners also need to consider other expenses like supplies, food, and medical care. The cost varies widely depending on several factors, including pedigree. Purebred kitties with a strong family history and a good bloodline will generally be more expensive than felines of mixed heritage or weaker lineage.
Taking on the responsibility of a new kitten, especially a rare and unusual breed like the Cheetoh, it is essential to understand that a financial commitment comes along with cuddles, games, and adorable photo opportunities. Kitties will need care and supplies their entire lives, and owners must be ready for it. Let’s jump in and discuss the Cheetoh cat price, the factors that impact it, and the expenses owners can expect for their purr baby.
How Much Is A Cheetoh Kitten?
These kitties are more costly than most other domestic breeds. A Cheetoh kitten can range from around $800 to $1,500 or higher. Some can even be sold for as high as $2,400. There is a wide range, with some sold for as low as $500. The price depends on bloodline, breeder quality, and kitten availability. Whether a kitten is a companion, show cat, or meant for breeding also will influence the price.
Factors Affecting Price
The price of kittens and even adult cats can fluctuate and change. For the Cheetoh, much of the costs depend on the bloodline. Other factors such as age, breeder quality, location, and time of year will all affect the cost. Remember that the lowest price tag is not always the best choice when looking for a kitten. These are very specialized, rare kitties, and a lower price may mean poor breeding or an unhealthy kitty.
Bloodline
Bloodline will be one of the most significant price factors for the Cheetoh. Purebred kitties are always more expensive. Offspring from higher quality and champion bloodlines also cost more. The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) still needs to recognize this breed, so do your due diligence when researching breeders.
Breeder Quality
Breeder reputation and experience are a big part of the expense. Reputable breeders who have been breeding these kitties for a long time and have a good record of producing healthy, well-adjusted kittens will typically charge more for their kittens than less experienced breeders. Irresponsible breeders will cut corners and may perform fewer health screenings or provide as high of a level of care. This can result in a less healthy kitten with hereditary medical issues. Stay away from pet store kittens unless you can verify breeder information.
Age & Sex
Another important factor that can impact the price is the kitty’s age. Kittens are generally more expensive than adults, and those older than a few years may be less expensive. With this breed, the age of a kitty is less impactful. Even adults can be $500 or more. Females are often more expensive than males.
Coat
These purr babies can come in several color variations, including black and brown spotted, black and brown spotted sienna, black spotted silver, brown spotted cinnamon, spotted gold, lynx pointed gold, black spotted silver, and blue marbled. Some coat colors may be harder to find, which increases the price.
Location & Time Of Year
The location of the breeder can also have an impact on the cost. Kittens purchased from breeders in more rural or remote areas may be less expensive than those in more urban areas. These kitties are primarily bred in the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The time of year can also sometimes impact the cost. There are generally more kittens available in the springtime, so for those looking to adopt in colder months, kittens may be harder to find, making them more expensive.
Costs For A Cheetoh
Expenses will include initial adoption costs and ongoing supplies and maintenance. Remember that these are estimates, not exact costs. Expenses will vary depending on your individual pet, your veterinarian, and the cost of living in your specific area. Owners should expect to spend $50 to $100 monthly on upkeep, supplies, and care.
Initial Costs & Supplies
Initial costs will include the kitten’s fee, whether from a breeder or a rescue. After that, owners should be prepared with food, collars, beds, litter, toys, and crates. The cost of these items will vary, but owners should expect to spend about $200 to get their kittens set up initially, on top of adoption fees. For a Cheetoh, a reasonable estimate is about $700 to $2000, depending on the price of your kitten.
Food
Food for your cat will be a significant expense throughout their life. Feline diet and nutrition go hand in hand with health, so this is not an area to cut costs. Always buy the best food you can afford. Cheetohs are obligate carnivores, like all other felines. They must eat meat-based diets to be healthy. Look for foods that use high-quality animal proteins as the first ingredients. Avoid unnamed meat meals and foods high in plant proteins and carbohydrates.
These kitties will do well on a diet including dry kibble and wet or fresh foods. Avoid human foods laden with fats, spices, sugars, and ingredients like onions or artificial sweeteners, which are toxic to felines.
Litter
Cat litter is a necessary expense that purr parents take on from the first day they welcome their new kitten home. Cats are meticulous about cleanliness, especially in the litter box area. Investing in high-quality litter and keeping the space fresh and neat is imperative. This will require daily maintenance, so owners should be prepared to take on this chore. The cost of the litter varies greatly depending on the kind used. Owners should expect to spend at least $25 to $50 a month on cat litter.
Medical Care & Insurance
Felines will need regular medical care throughout their lives. Medical costs will be higher during their first year, as they will need multiple kitten vaccinations and treatments. This includes the spay or neuter procedure which runs between $100 to $300 or so. After the first year, cats will visit the vet on average about twice a year. Veterinary care can range from $25 to $200 or more a visit, depending on an individual cat’s needs. Microchipping is also something to consider and is required in many localities.
Pet insurance is an optional cost but something many owners consider. Insurance plans vary in price but on average, for a cat are about $30 a month. Some plans will cover only emergency care, while others will also cover illness, increasing the monthly costs.
Additional Costs To Consider
Training
Not every cat needs professional training, but some do. Professional training can vary significantly in cost. Individual sessions can start as low as $50 an hour and reach over $200 per hour. It is a misconception that only kittens need to be trained. Older cats also need behavior reinforcement from time to time. Most owners will only pursue professional training if there is no other option or they are working on training their kitty for competition.
Boarding
Boarding is not necessarily a monthly cost but is something owners should consider if they travel for long periods. It is unwise to leave a Cheetoh unsupervised in the home with smaller pets, and they can start to get anxious or nervous if left solo for too long. Boarding costs $24 daily but varies by location and facility.
Grooming
Professional grooming for cats is less common than for dogs, but it is still something some owners choose. Especially for a rare breed like these mini cheetahs, owners want their purr babies to look as splendid as possible. Professional grooming services are available for owners that have trouble cutting their cat’s nails. This service usually costs around $10 or so. Grooming and bathing can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 a session or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Cheetoh cat from?
Cheetohs are a newer breed created right here in the US. They are labeled experimental by the International Cat Association, not yet recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association, and are hard to find. They were first bred in 2001 by an American breeder named Carol Drymon. She wanted to create a cat with wild looks like the Bengal but with the personable personality of the Ocicat. Her efforts paid off, and the Cheetoh is a wild-looking, extremely docile kitty.
Is a Cheetoh a good cat for kids?
Yes, these are wonderful cats for kids. Cheetohs are known to be friendly and outgoing, highly active and playful, and require regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically healthy. These kitties tend to be very social and affectionate, enjoying the company of humans and other animals. They are also known for being intelligent and easily trained.
Where can I get a Cheetoh cat?
It is best to start by looking for a breeder in your local area. This is not a common breed, so there are fewer breeders to pick from. You can start by checking out the International Cheetoh Breeders Association. You may find one for sale privately or can look for Bengal breeders and rescues, which sometimes have these kitties or know where to find them.
Final Thoughts
The Cheetoh is a relatively new, rare breed known for its wild, cheetah-like spots and friendly, outgoing persona. This is a purebred kitty and, as such, has a higher price tag. Prices for a Cheetoh cat can range from $1,000 to $2,400 and may vary depending on the reputation of the breeder, the cat’s age and sex, and coat color. It is important to research a trustworthy breeder and ask for health certificates and genetic testing before buying a purebred, rare breed like this.
Cheetohs are a highly sought-after breed for their dramatic coat patterns and friendly, outgoing personalities. They are considered a relatively rare breed, which impacts the price. Regardless of expense, Cheetoh cat owners will agree they are worth every penny spent and more.
