Buying a kitten is long term commitment and an important decision for you and your family. Finding a reputable breeder is one of the last steps in finding your kitten to adopt. We’ve provided the following information to let you know how to tell the difference between a reputable breeder and one that is not.
A Reputable Breeder Is One Who:
- Is knowledgeable about their breed and breed standards.
- Is active with their breed by belonging to one or more cattery registrations such as CFA, TICA, ACFA, CFF, etc.
- Participates in showing their cats competitively at cat shows and has read books and/or has attended seminars to keep up on new developments with their breed.
- Does not have more than three to seven litters a year and has no more than two different breeds in their cattery.
- Would never sell a kitten to a pet store.
- Does not let their kittens go before 12 weeks of age. (see Kitten Development Stages)
- Is one that asks many questions of you about how the kitten will be raised including questions about your home, the number of children present, the number of pets you have, etc.
- Provides proper nutrition and veterinarian care to all adults and kittens living at their cattery.
- Has performed genetic testing on their breeders for common genetic problems associated with the breed and is willing to discuss results.
- Is able to show you the environment their cats and kittens are raised in for your inspection and the area is kept sanitary.
- Can discuss socialization of their kittens and provide recommendations for the continued socialization and training.
- Will have a written contract which includes an altering agreement and a bill of sale.
- Provides a veterinary health certificate at time of sale.
- Is a resource for the new owner and is available by phone and/or e-mail to answers any questions that you may have for the life of your kitten.
I hope this information assists you find a reputable breeder that will suit your kitten needs.
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