Finding a Reputable Breeder

Buying a kitten is long term commitment and an important decision. Finding a reputable breeder is an important first step and reading the information below will help you find one.

Finding a Reputable Breeder: What a Buyer should look for:

A reputable breeder is one who:

1. Is knowledgeable about their breed and breed standards.

2. Is active with their breed by belonging to one or more cattery registrations, by participating in showing their cats competitively at cat shows and has read books or attended seminars to keep up on new developments with their breed.

3. Does not have more than three to five litters a year and has no more than two different breeds in their cattery.

4. Would never sell a kitten to a pet store.

5 Does not let their kittens go before 12 weeks of age. ( see Kitten Development Stages )

6. 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.

7. Provides proper nutrition and veterinarian care to all adults and kittens living at their cattery.

8.Has performed genetic testing on their breeders for common genetic problems associated with the breed and is willing to discuss results.

9. Can show you the environment their cats and kittens are raised in for your inspection and the area is kept sanitary.

10.Can discuss the socialization of kittens and can make recommendations for the continued socialization and training.

11. Will have a written contract which includes an altering agreement and a bill of sale.

12. Provides a veterinary health certificate provided at time of sale.

13.Is a resource for a 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.

from: http://timberkatz.com/Finding_Reputable_Breeder.html