The American Shorthair cat is one of the most beloved and popular breeds in the United States. Their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and low-maintenance nature make them a favorite among cat owners. However, when it comes to purchasing an American Shorthair, potential buyers may be wondering how much they can expect to pay for such a feline companion.
Breeder vs. Shelter
Before discussing the cost of an American Shorthair, it’s important to note that there are two primary ways to obtain this breed: through a breeder or a shelter. Breeders are individuals who specialize in breeding purebred cats and may charge more for their kittens due to their high-quality lineage. Shelters, on the other hand, typically have a lower adoption fee but may not have as much information about a cat’s genetic background.
Cost of a Kitten from a Breeder
If you decide to purchase an American Shorthair kitten from a breeder, the cost will vary depending on several factors. The location of the breeder, the quality of the kitten’s bloodline, and the availability of American Shorthair kittens in your area can all impact the price.
On average, American Shorthair kittens from reputable breeders can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500. Kittens from top-quality bloodlines may cost even more, with some breeders charging upwards of $2,000 or more for a kitten. It’s essential to do your research and find a breeder who has a good reputation and can provide you with proof of genetic testing and vaccinations.
Additional Costs
In addition to the cost of the American Shorthair kitten, there are also additional expenses to consider. These include:
Veterinary bills: Before bringing your new kitten home, you’ll need to ensure they receive proper vaccinations and medical care. This can add up quickly, so it’s important to budget for these costs.
Spaying or neutering: Most breeders will require you to spay or neuter your kitten as part of the adoption agreement. This can cost between $50 to $200, depending on your location and the cat’s age.
Supplies: You’ll need to purchase food, litter boxes, toys, and other supplies for your new kitten.
Cost of Adopting from a Shelter
Adopting an American Shorthair from a shelter is typically more affordable than purchasing one from a breeder. The adoption fee covers basic medical care, vaccinations, and spaying or neutering. However, it’s important to note that shelters may not have as much information about the cat’s genetic background or health history.
The adoption fee for an American Shorthair from a shelter can range from $50 to $200, with some shelters offering reduced fees for senior cats or those with special needs.
Additional Costs
Similar to purchasing a kitten from a breeder, adopting from a shelter also comes with additional costs to consider. These may include:
Veterinary bills: While the shelter will provide basic medical care, there may be additional expenses if your cat has any pre-existing conditions or requires further treatment.
Supplies: As with any new pet, you’ll need to purchase food, litter boxes, toys, and other necessary supplies.
Factors That Affect American Shorthair Cat Price
Several factors may influence the price of an American Shorthair cat, whether purchased from a breeder or adopted from a shelter. These include:
Quality of Bloodline: As mentioned earlier, kittens from top-quality bloodlines may cost more due to their desirable traits and characteristics.
Coat Color and Pattern: Certain coat colors and patterns may be in higher demand and therefore cost more. For instance, silver tabby American Shorthairs are popular and may command a higher price.
Geographic Location: The cost of American Shorthairs may vary depending on your geographic location. Prices can be higher in large metropolitan areas compared to rural areas.
Demand: Like any commodity, the price of American Shorthairs is subject to supply and demand. If this breed is currently in high demand, you may see prices rise accordingly.
The Initial Cost of American Shorthair Ownership
The initial cost of American Shorthair ownership can vary depending on where you get your cat from and what supplies you already have. Here are some estimated costs:
1. Adoption fee: If you adopt an American Shorthair from a shelter, the adoption fee may range from $50 to $200.
2. Purchase price: If you buy an American Shorthair from a breeder, the cost may range from $500 to $1,200 or more, depending on the quality of the cat and the breeder’s reputation.
3. Supplies: You will need to purchase supplies such as a litter box, food and water dishes, toys, scratching post, and a carrier. These items may cost about $100 to $200.
4. Veterinary care: Your new cat will need to be examined by a veterinarian, receive vaccinations and possibly spaying or neutering. This could cost around $100 to $300 or more.
Conclusion
The cost of an American Shorthair cat varies depending on several factors, including whether you adopt from a shelter or purchase from a breeder, geographic location, and the quality of the kitten’s bloodline. On average, kittens from reputable breeders can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500, while adoption fees at shelters typically range from $50 to $200. Regardless of where you obtain your American Shorthair, it’s important to budget for additional expenses like veterinary care and supplies. By doing adequate research and planning ahead, you can ensure that owning an American Shorthair cat is a manageable and rewarding experience.
