Which breed would be right for me?
Take time to consider which pedigree cat would suit you and your lifestyle. There is a fantastic choice in looks, temperament and type, and each one has varying needs. For example, a Persian will need to spend everyday, or every other day, on grooming to keep his coat in good condition and tangle free. Many breeds, including the Bengal and the Burmese, need space and opportunities to expend energy and entertainment to ensure they dont get into mischief.
How much you should pay?
Prices vary according to the breed colour, quality and rarity, and even to where in the country the breeder is located. Some breeds can be quite scarce, so be prepared to travel or to wait until the kitten you want is available.
What should i expect from a breeder?
The breeder should love their cats and be knowledgable about the breed and committed to producing healthy, well-socialized kittens. Their premises should be clean and organised. You will want to ask lots of questions, but dont be surprised if the breeder asks you as many. He or she will be anxious that the home their kittens go to is suitable.
They should be willing to offer expert advice and be available in the future to discuss any problems. Dont expect to take a kitten straight home with you - you are likely to be seeing them at a few weeks old and not ready to leave mum. Also, expect non-returnable deposit.
Planning your visit
- Never go from one breeder to another as you could be the cause of cross infection.
- Phone to make an appointment with the breeder before visit and let him or her know if you change your plans.
Never buy a kitten on impulse. Your purchase should be considered and thoroughly planned.
At the breeder's premise
- Ask to see where the kittens are usually kept and to see 'mum' and any other relatives. This help you assess the temperament.
-Ideally, the kittens will have been brought up in the home sp that they are used to the normal domestic activities and have been well-socialized.
Health Issues
- Watch for signs of sickness, diarrhoea, sticky eyes or stuffy nose . Dont buy a kitten because he is sickly, lethargic or a weakling and you feel sorry for him.
- A kitten should be 13 weeks old before he leaves the breeder. By that time, the breeder should have arranged for the kitten to be vaccinated for cat flu and enteritis, and possibly feline leukaemia(FeIV) and chlamydia. Leave at least seven days after vaccination before collecting a kitten.
- Some breeds, including the Persians and Exotics, are susceptible to polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Check with the breeder that the kitten's parents have tested negative for this disease. Ask to see screening certificates.
-It is a good idea to take your new kittens to a vet once you have got him home.
-Ask the breeder for a diet sheet so that you can continue feeding what the kitten is used to. This will avoid any tummy upsets.
In preparation
- Buy the type of cat litter the kitten has been used to.
- Buy all the food and equipment you are likely to need before you bring your kitten home.
- Plan and handle introductions carefully. Consider your choice of pedigree kitten in order to ensure your cats will be compatible.
