How to Buy a Purebred Cat Or Kitten

Are you interested in buying a purebred cat or kitten? Although there are plenty of mixed breed cats for sale or being given away for free, there is a certain amount of joy involved with owning a purebred cat - particularly if you have always been in love with the way a particular breed looks. But, before you head out and buy a purebred cat, there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to be certain you get a great price as well as a healthy cat that is truly of pure lineage.

Finding the Right Breeder

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The most important step in buying a purebred cat is to find a responsible breeder. There are several things to look for in a breeder that will tell you whether or not the person is someone you want to do business with. As a general rule of thumb, you should look for a breeder who:

o Does not sell the kittens until they are at least 12 weeks old
o Is willing to answer all of your questions and to back claims with the proper paperwork
o Asks you plenty of questions to make certain the cat is going to a good home
o Is a member of at least one cat organization
o Takes steps to screen for hereditary diseases that are associated with that particular breed
o Requires kittens to be neutered or spayed
o Is honest and straightforward about both the advantages and disadvantages of owning the breed you are interested in
o Provides references for you to contact
o Appears to know each kitten as an individual, which demonstrates that the breeder spends time handling and socializing with the kittens

Remember, a responsible breeder does not treat the kittens as merchandise. Rather, the breeder takes the time to match the kittens and the owners carefully in order to make certain everyone will be happy with the kitten's new home.

Visiting Breeders

While you are still visiting with different breeders and trying to decide which one you want to work with, it is also important for you to take the necessary precautions to keep all of the kitties safe and healthy. You may not realize it, but transmitting parasites and diseases is relatively easy to do. Therefore, if you plan to visit with several different breeders or if you plan on going to shelters or rescuers to see what they have to offer, it is best for you to shower and change your clothes between visits. This way, you will not inadvertently transmit disease or parasites from one place to the next.

Getting the Proper Paperwork

Once you do find the right breeder, make certain you get all of the paperwork in proper order as you complete your transaction. A responsible breeder will not charge "extra" to provide you with paperwork or to register your kitten. Some of the papers you should expect to receive from the breeder include:

o Registration papers
o Health clearance paperwork
o Title certificates
o Pedigrees

Any other claims the breeder makes regarding the kitten or its lineage should also be backed by paperwork, all of which the breeder should be willing to make copies of so you can have the paperwork for your records as well. Last but not least, make sure you call the Breeder's references (preferably people who have purchased pets in the past) to verify the Breeder is who they claim to be.

How to Buy a Purebred Cat Or Kitten

CS Swarens is the CEO of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065

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