Purebred Cat Breeding Ethics
How Do You Recognize a Responsible and Reputable Breeder?
Help for those just starting their cattery or for families seeking a well raised purebred kitten.
The Foundation of Breeding Ethics
The cats must always be top priority! A good breeder got into breeding because they love their breed. They love their purebred cats. Their cats come first in every decision that is made. A good breeder only wants what is best for both kittens and parent cats. If a breeder’s purebred cats are their first priority, all the rest comes naturally!
Cat Breeders Should Be Experts in Their Field
It does, however, take more than the love of cats to make a good breeder. A good breeder knows everything about their breed. They are breeding to improve their breed. They know their breed’s temperament, health care needs, grooming needs, the works! Not only should they have known all of this before purchasing their breeding stock, but they must also be able to professionally counsel perspective kitten parents on whether their breed is the right breed for their family, as well as being there to offer advice if the family ever has questions.
Good breeders also know all the health and care concerns related to cats in general, as well as health problems specific to their breed. They may be breeding Persian cats, but they’re ALL kitty cats!
Reputable Breeders Make a Lifetime Commitment to Every Kitten They Produce
A reputable purebred cat breeder offers a full health guarantee and a lifetime commitment to every kitten they produce. A breeder can’t make a lifetime commitment to their kittens if they haven’t set a healthy foundation in place. This means making sure that every cat they breed is 100% healthy before they are ever bred. They DNA test for inherited genetic problems and do not breed cats that can pass on health issues to their kittens. Because the breeder knows their adults are completely healthy, they can safely offer a health guarantee on their kittens.
10 Traits of a Reputable and Responsible Breeder
- A reputable purebred breeder puts their cats’ well being first.
- A responsible breeder provides everything their breeding cats need, including health and veterinary care, grooming, quality food, safe and proper housing, and a little fun and entertainment as well.
- A responsible breeder plans all their breeding and doesn’t just produce kittens just to make a quick buck.
- A reputable breeder screens all perspective adopting parents to help ensure all their kittens have loving forever homes.
- A reputable breeder registers their litters and provides proper paperwork with each and every kitten they sell.
- Reputable breeders offer a health guarantee on their kittens.
- Reputable breeders have spay or neuter agreements in their contract.
- Reputable breeders will take back or help re-home any kittens that they produce, should the need arise.
- Reputable breeders do not sell to pet stores.
- A responsible and reputable breeder stands by their word. Always.
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These guidelines will help you, whether you are a new breeder or if you are seeking a reputable breeder to produce your next furry family member. If you are considering breeding cats, the things in this article are the bare minimum of what it takes to raise cats properly. People will rely on you to sell them the healthiest, happiest kitten possible. This kitten will be a family member for many years to come – if you have done your work responsibly.
If you are a family looking for a new kitten or cat, don’t be afraid to interview several breeders before making your decision. Make it a point to! Ask anyone who has ever adopted a poorly socialized kitten, and they will tell you to take your time and find the right match for your family. Too many cats end up homeless or in shelters because they didn’t work out with their new families, a large percentage of these being purebred cats.
Source: Darlene Cheek, Responsible Persian Cat Breeder, Tennessee Persians
You might also enjoy: Becoming a Pedigreed Cat Breeder
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