How Much Does a Himalayan Cat Cost?

Himalayan Cats (also called Himmies) have been in the limelight since 1931, but it was only in 1957 when they were discovered as an official cat breed. They are a fascinating combination of a Persian cat’s body and a Siamese cat’s markings.

However, not everyone identifies the Himalayan Cats as a singular cat breed. The Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA) – the biggest registry for pedigreed cats in the world today, considers Himalayan Cats as a division of Persians.

But whatever you classify these cats, one thing is certain: They are truly one of the most sophisticated cats in the world.

Upfront Costs of a Himalayan Cat

Finding the perfect Himalayan cat begins with finding a reputable breeder. It is of utmost importance to search for registered breeders that are proud members of at least one cat fancier associations.

Some of these breeders are listed in Cat Fanciers’ Association or CFA. Some can also be a member of The International Cat Association (TICA) or the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe).

These associations demand all members to stick to a Breeder Code of Ethics.

The Himalayan cats’ price from well-known breeders starts around $1,200 and could go all the way up to $2,500. For Himalayan bred of champions, be prepared to pay more.

If you want to save a kitty, another way to get a Himmy is through adoption. Doing so will save you more money too. Adoption through the Specialty Purebred Cat Rescue (SPCR) costs you around $350.

The Persian and Himalayan Cat Rescue (PHCR), on the other hand, provides an even more affordable rate for as low as $175 for adult cats, and $225 for Himmies less than 4 years old.

Regular Maintenance Costs

Aside from the upfront costs, you must also take into consideration the following:

• Medical Costs

Despite all the wonderful things about the Himmies, one of the downsides is their susceptibility to various health issues. This is a very important subject because medical expenses are probably the priciest.
A serious health issue that Himalayan Cats possess is Brachycephaly, and this is a similar skull problem that Persian and Burmese cats have. Brachycephalic means to be “short-headed”.

The shortened skull of Brachycephalic cats causes them to suffer from breathing difficulties. There is no wonder why they are known to be sluggish or quiet.

Their skull issues are to blame. Their flat-face might look cute for some, but in reality, it is a disability that leads to an inactive lifestyle and obesity.

That’s not all. Flat-faced felines also suffer from distorted tear ducts.

The path of their tear ducts isn’t normal because of the modifications in the form of their skull. As a result, their tears flow all over their face and eventually cause dermatitis.

Himalayan Cats are also known to suffer from early-onset of progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – a congenital mutation that is common to Persian cats. PRA eventually results in complete blindness for kittens as young as 4 months.

This is another reason why you should find reputable breeders as they must be well aware of this condition. Himalayan cats suffering from this must be spayed or neutered.

Spaying or neutering your cat provides numerous benefits, like preventing infections and lowering the risk of cancer. You can get your cat neutered or spayed at the Jessica Beath Clinic. Its cat spaying service costs $45 while cat neutering costs $35.

Another disease that Himalayan cats are susceptible to is polycystic kidney disease (PKD) – a disease that causes enlarged and dysfunctional kidneys. This disease is a hereditary condition that starts mild in kittens and eventually worsens over time.

Of all the health issues associated with Himmies, this is the most expensive to treat. The good news, however, is that a genetic test to recognize affected cats is now widely available.

A PKD DNA testing in the DDC Veterinary in Fairfield, OH costs $48 for each feline. If buying from a reputable breeder, make sure that your prospect kitty has tested PKD negative.

In light of all these health problems associated with Himmies, a rush to the emergency room is inevitable. You must be prepared for all the vet clinic’s expenses, which greatly vary in pricing.

But even though the Himalayan Cat is prone to numerous health conditions, it will surely grow into a healthy and strong adult as long as you give it sufficient medical attention.

• Grooming Costs

Aside from different health measures, your feline must also go through overall grooming.
Himalayan cats are well-known for their full coats. Since they are long-haired, you must be willing to give at least 20 minutes a day brushing their hair.

Missing a day of brushing may result in matting. Plus, excessive hairballs may also cause respiratory and digestive disorders.

For this reason, it is necessary to invest in a gentle slicker brush for your Himmy. A high-quality slicker brush from Four Paws costs around $7 – $9. You will also need a shedding comb for post-brushing to easily remove loose hair.

Here are other tools that you need to keep your Himmy well-groomed every day:

• Nail clipper: $7.50
• 8oz Ear cleaning solution: $13.00
• Cat shampoo: $6.50

If you opt for a professional service, the Pet SalonUSA can give your Himalayan cat a basic grooming service for as low as $25 – $50. Its services already include nail trimming and ear cleaning.

• Food Costs

Take note that Himalayans are heavy shedders which makes hairballs a bit of a problem. For this reason, cat foods that have high levels of fiber are ideal.

There are even cat foods intended specifically for indoor hairball control. One 3-pound bag of BLUE™ Indoor Hairball Control Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe adult dog food costs $12.99 and it will last for 2 weeks.

• Hygiene Costs

Another necessity that your cat will need is a litter box that you can buy in different types online. No matter what you choose, what’s important is that you provide a private and comfortable space for your Himmy.

You can obtain a basic cat litter box for $25.00, but if you want something with a more unique feature, the self-cleaning litter box from LitterMaid Single Cat Self-Cleaning Litter Box will cost you $100.
Don’t forget the bag of cat litter. For each 40-pound bag, prices range from $18 – $30.

• Toys

Aside from the basic necessities, don’t forget about the other stuff that will make your cat happy.
You will not see a Himalayan cat jump or climb around too often like other cat breeds. Most of the time, a simple ball is enough for it to play with all day. An interactive toy ball only costs around $2 to $9.

Buyer’s Guide

Himalayan cats are bright felines with a very sweet temperament. They love to play around, but they aren’t too wild. They are also sophisticatedly beautiful, bred in different colors with darker hues on their paws, face legs, ears, and tails.

But those who are considering this breed must know that these cats are high maintenance. They are unfit to live outdoors due to their long-haired fur.

Their flat face requires daily cleanings of the eyes and tear ducts to lessen the possibility of infection. Add to that the numerous health issues they are prone to.

Before you buy one, here are a few important things to remember:

1. Look for registered breeders that are certified members of one or more cat fancier associations. This will ensure that you are offered cats of great quality and health.
2. Remember that Himalayan cats are prone to several health concerns. Seek a reputable breeder who is willing and able to discuss all health issues.
3. Always consider adoption. Saving one kitty may not change the world significantly. But for that one cat, its world will surely change forever.
4. Whether you are adopting or buying a Himmy from a breeder, it is best if you can come to see the cat in person. Make sure to verify the cat’s actual condition before making a final decision.
5. Don’t just consider the upfront cost of buying a Himmy, but also the cost of maintaining one. Take note of the upkeep expenses from food, grooming, and healthcare.
6. Himalayans are considered to be high-shedding cats. Regular grooming may help, but it will just reduce the shedding. So if you or a family member is suffering from allergies, they are not the best choice.
7. Himmies don’t do well in warm temperatures due to their respiratory weakness. They are best to keep indoors and in a cool or air-conditioned environment.
8. Due to their calm personality, Himalayans are not fit for a loud environment. A home with energetic children and dogs is not best for them.

Before adopting or purchasing a Himalayan, see to it that you are prepared to fulfill the responsibilities that come with being an owner. Aside from being prepared financially, you must also have enough knowledge about its lifestyle and personality.