The adoption of a purebred kitten/cat can be an exciting adventure. Before you make that final decision, however, keep in mind that having a pet is not something to enter into lightly. Consider your decision carefully so your relationship with your new friend can be as fulfilling and happy as possible.

    To begin your quest, take the time to research the different breeds. Each breed has specific personality traits and care requirements that you should know about before you adopt a cat. Examine your lifestyle and expectations. For instance, if you want an active, intelligent cat but one that won't get into everything in your home, then you need to stay away from certain breeds. If on the other hand, a member of the family has allergies, then a cat with a short coat might be more appropriate.

    Learn about all the different breeds -- read magazines, such as "Cat Fancy" or "Cats USA"; attend several cat shows; and, talk to as many different breeders as possible. Once you have found a breed that captures your heart, your first impulse may be to check your local pet store. While you may find purebred kittens for sale there, most professional breeders will not sell kittens to pet stores. Your best bet is to adopt directly from a reputable breeder. You will know the person who bred the kitten, know about the kitten's parents, have complete health information and proper registration forms, and have a true evaluation of the kitten's quality. As equally important, if you adopt from a breeder, you have someone to call for advise or for answers to your questions.

    Screen the potential breeders thoroughly. Since you will be investing in the breeder's knowledge, you need to be confident that the breeder you finally select will be there to assist you with your questions for years to come.

Signs of a Reputable Breeder

    A reputable breeder is someone who devotes his or her time to the protection, promotion and preservation of a particular breed of cat. But how do you find a reputable breeder?

    Reputable breeders want their kittens to go to homes where the kitten and the new owner are happy with each other. For example, If you are looking for a quiet cat and you talk to a Siamese breeder, he or she should tell you that the breed is not for you. The breeder will also ask you how much time you have to dedicate to your new cat. While a perfectly groomed Persian is a delight to behold, if you don't have the time to comb your Persian daily, your beautiful cat will soon be covered with mats and then neither one of you will be happy.

    As part of their commitment to purebred cats, reputable breeders are involved in the cat fancy. That is, they show their cats to compare how well their breeding program is meeting the standard for their particular breed. Additionally, breeders meet at shows to discuss health protocols pertaining to multi-cat households and current information on diseases, vaccines and genetics.

    Breeders form a special bond with the kittens they have bred and will love the cat no matter where it lives. Some exhibitors may be willing to place kittens at the show, but most will only bring pictures of their kittens for prospective owners to see. They do this to allow themselves time to check with your veterinarian or even visit your home before sending their precious kitten to live with you. So, for as many questions as you may have to ask the breeder, the reputable breeder may have just as many to ask you.

Questions A Breeder May Ask You!

Cattery Inspection Program

    A reputable breeder may participate in a cattery inspection program. Three cat registries offer cat inspection programs: the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA); The International Cat Association (TICA); and, the American Association of Cat Enthusiasts (AACE).

    In all three programs, inspections are done by a licensed veterinarian and paid for by the breeder. They look at the overall health of the cats -- are they groomed and of appropriate weight and are they absent of parasites; the cleanliness of the cattery -- are the litter boxes absent of odor, dirt, dried food or fecal material?; the type and amount of food fed to the cats -- is it nutritious and is it stored properly?; and, they check the facility for adequate temperature control and proper ventilation -- is there enough fresh air? Is there condensation? Is there adequate light? Once certified, the cattery must be reviewed annually to ensure it maintains the standards.

    While the cattery inspection programs are not guarantees of good health, you are more likely to find a healthy, well-behaved kitten at a clean, well-managed cattery with a close working relationship with its veterinarian.

    In Conclusion, reputable breeders want to place their kittens in good homes. They want to be certain their pet-quality kittens are spayed or neutered. The breeder will either spay/neuter before the kitten goes to its new home, or will hold registry papers until proof of altering has been provided by the buyer. Breeders also want to be assured that the cat/kitten will not be allowed outdoors. They will verify that your home is free from contagious diseases that could threaten the kitten's health. Don't be offended by breeder questions. Remember that the breeder has raised the kitten and wants assurances that the kitten will be going to a good, loving home.

    While everyone wants the perfect kitten for a pet, remember, it will take some work to find a reputable breeder, but it will be worth the time and effort you've expended. When you hold your healthy, happy purebred kitten in your arms, hear its quiet purr and watch while it explores its new home, all your efforts will be rewarded. Enjoy your new family member.

Footnote: Much of the above was excerpted out of "Cats USA" 1994 and 1996 editions. It is intended to be a general guide to finding the kitten/cat for each family's unique situation. It is being provided by the SmokeyCoons cattery as a public service to the cat fancier in their quest for the perfect cat companion. Good luck!