There is a certain risk inherent to the adoption of a
mixed breed kitten or cat. Little is known of the
animal's background and current state of health, even
less can be predicted about its future development.
Such kittens, however, are not initially costly.
Purebred kittens are expensive, and as a buyer, you
have the right to certain advantages and guarantees.
Ethical, knowledgeable breeders evaluate their
kittens by the same process used by professional judges
at cat shows. They compare each kitten to the written
standard that describes the ideal cat of that breed.
Experienced, honest breeders determine which kittens
fall short of the standard, in qualities of coat,
coloring and bone structure. The goal of a serious
breeder is to improve their breed of cat, therefore,
the kittens that don't conform to the standard, are
sold as pets. Because the ideal cat is a rare creature,
pets are more numerous.
Such pets are in great demand, for they reflect the
health, personalities and most of the physical
qualities that define the ideal example of their breed.
Only those kittens with the potential to mirror their
breed standard closely are considered for breeding or
showing. Be certain that you get
the quality that you pay for.
Wholesalers are not qualified or equipped to
evaluate or care for kittens. No ethical breeder will
sell to dealers or pet shops. The unfortunate young
animals found in pet shops are produced in volume and
usually overpriced. Buy from an established reputable
breeder. Raising and showing cats is my hobby, not a
business. Raising kittens properly costs a great deal. Each
kitten represents years of effort, care, research and
financial investment. The quality of nutrition and
medical care received in a kittens first few months
will be reflected in its lifelong health. Bargain
kittens, priced low because of a low overhead system of
care by the original owner, can be expensive in the
long run. Correcting illness and deficiencies can be a
depressing procedure.
Consider the environment in which a kitten is
raised. Cleanliness, or lack of, will be related to the
physical condition of your kitten. Kittens need a great
deal of handling and affection in the first few weeks
of life, to become a loving pet in your home. Animals
raised in cages or kennels are often handicapped for
life. Do not accept a kitten that is too young. Ours
are weaned when the mother cat and offspring show less
need of each other, and the kittens show an interest in
forming a bond with a family member. Never purchase a
kitten that has not been inoculated against the
preventable diseases. You have the right to insist on a
pet free of disease, parasites and ringworm.
Conscientious breeders protect their kittens, their
ethics protect you, the buyer. Do not accept a kitten
unaccompanied by instructions for its care,
immunization schedule, neuter, feeding and grooming
needs. Do not buy on impulse; be prepared to provide
the necessary care and companionship for the lifetime
of the kitten.
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