A Guide to buying a pedigree kitten
So you have decided to buy a pedigree kitten, have a think about the following before you make your decision.
- Do you know what breed you are looking for?
- Do you want a shorthaired lively kitten who is more than likely an extrovert?
- Would you rather a quieter longhaired kitten that needs your patience to groom her?
- Would you like to show your kitten?
Once you have thought about the breed you would like, it is time to find a good trustworthy breeder but where do you start? It is important to make sure you are buying a kitten from a reputable and trustworthy breeder. You will feel more confident with your new kitten and know that you have a healthy kitten that will give you lots of fun.
It is always a good idea to buy a kitten from a reputable breeder as many of them have planned the liter for temperament and health. You will also know more about the kitten, his or hers date of birth, her parents and the knowledge the kitten has been brought up in a home rather than pet shop.
Places to find breeders:
- Cat shows – You will also be able to see the breed of cat you are interested in before visiting kittens. It will also let you see what size your kitten may grow to.
- Breed club websites – Most breeds have dedicated clubs for a particular breed. You will also be able to find out more information on your chosen breed. The breed club website will have a list of breeder members.
- Cat magazines – Some breeders choose to advertise in cat magazines these breeders are not necessarily breed club members and you will need to contact them to make a decision.
How do I know this is a good breeder?
A good breeder will want to know more about you and your home life when you contact them, be prepared to answer a few questions. Call or email a few breeders and if you feel comfortable with them make an appointment to go and see them, they will want to meet you too. Even if the breeder does not have any kittens they will be happy for you to visit their adult cats at home. When you meet with the breeder ask them about the sale conditions of the kitten and if there is anything else you should be aware of. The breeder will explain to you about what you should receive with the kitten when he or she is ready to go home. DON’T be afraid to also ask questions or share your knowledge with the breeder.
When you visit a breeder look out for the following:
- Healthy cats and kittens
- You should see the kittens with their Mum
- Good hygiene standards
A few things to keep in mind:
- You will receive papers with your kitten (pink/blue slips). If the breeder has not registered the kitten they must provide you with a mating certificate so you can register the kitten at a later date.
- Your kitten will not be ready to leave the breeder until it is at least 13 weeks old.
- Your kitten must be vaccinated against enteritis inoculation and had a full course of cat flu inoculations before it leaves the breeder.
- A written contract is normal practice and you will be asked to read and sign it before taking your kitten home.
- You will also receive a signed pedigree with the kitten.
- The breeder will also issue you with a copy of the ‘general code of ethics for breeders and owners.
- You will normally be given 4 weeks free insurance but this is not compulsory.
Ok so you trust the breeder and would like to own a kitten bred by them but what are you looking for?
You need to think about if the kitten is just a pet or if you would like to show or breed from him or her. (If you want to breed this is something that should be pre discussed prior to taking your kitten home). Are you looking for a male or female or does it really matter? DON’T fall in the trap of feeling sorry for a sick kitten it will cause you pain in the future and possibly a large vets bill.
What is a healthy kitten?
- The kitten should look clean and healthy.
- Eyes should be clear and bright with no signs of discharge and no sign of the third eye lid, this is a sign of a poorly cat.
- Nose clean with no sign of discharge; also look out for excessive sneezing as this is not a good sign.
- Ears should be clean and smell free.
- Coat should be soft, clean and not smelly.
- The kitten should be playful and alert when awake.
- Check litter trays if needed as there should not be any signs of diahorrea.
The list above is just the start of the checklist. If you are looking for a show or breeding cat you need to also consider the following.
Does the kitten meet the Standard Of Points of its breed?
Is the kitten going to add to the gene pool if breed from?
To breed from your kitten you need to consider the following:
- Why do I want to breed?
- Have I the time, patience and understanding?
- Can I afford it - equipment, stud fees, vet bills, extra food - to name just a few of the extras?
- How will my human family feel about the idea, will they agree?
- Will I be able to sell my kittens?
Once you have found your perfect partner and please don’t be surprised if they found you! Enjoy them as much as they enjoy you.
johudson09@yahoo.com
01252 628905 I do not export cats or kittens outside of the UK
