Questions to Ask a Cat Breeder
Essential questions to ask cat breeders to ensure you're working with a responsible breeder and choosing a healthy, well-socialized kitten that's right for your family.
1How long have you been breeding cats, and what drew you to this breed?
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How long have you been breeding cats, and what drew you to this breed?
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Why this works
Experience and passion indicate a knowledgeable breeder who genuinely cares about the breed rather than just profit.
2Can I see the kitten's parents and the environment where they're raised?
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Can I see the kitten's parents and the environment where they're raised?
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Why this works
Seeing the breeding environment reveals whether cats are kept in clean, spacious, humane conditions and helps you assess temperament.
3What health testing do you perform on the parents before breeding?
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What health testing do you perform on the parents before breeding?
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Why this works
Responsible breeders test for genetic conditions specific to the breed to ensure they're not passing on hereditary health problems.
4What vaccinations and deworming will the kitten have received before going home?
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What vaccinations and deworming will the kitten have received before going home?
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Why this works
Proper early medical care sets the foundation for a healthy kitten and shows the breeder's commitment to preventive health.
5Will the kitten come with a health guarantee, and what does it cover?
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Will the kitten come with a health guarantee, and what does it cover?
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Why this works
A solid health guarantee demonstrates confidence in their breeding practices and protects you from unexpected genetic issues.
6At what age do you allow kittens to go to their new homes?
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At what age do you allow kittens to go to their new homes?
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Why this works
Reputable breeders wait at least 12 weeks to ensure proper socialization with mother and littermates, which is crucial for behavior.
7How do you socialize your kittens with people and other animals?
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How do you socialize your kittens with people and other animals?
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Why this works
Early socialization dramatically impacts a cat's temperament and ability to adapt to new environments and experiences.
8What type of diet are the kittens raised on, and what do you recommend continuing?
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What type of diet are the kittens raised on, and what do you recommend continuing?
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Why this works
Knowing their current diet helps you transition smoothly and ensures you're meeting their nutritional needs appropriately.
9Are you registered with any cat breeding associations, and can you provide references?
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Are you registered with any cat breeding associations, and can you provide references?
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Why this works
Association membership and references indicate credibility, adherence to breeding standards, and a track record of satisfied customers.
10What is your contract and return policy if I can no longer keep the cat?
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What is your contract and return policy if I can no longer keep the cat?
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Why this works
Responsible breeders want their cats back if things don't work out rather than having them end up in shelters.
11How many litters does each queen have per year?
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How many litters does each queen have per year?
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Why this works
Ethical breeders limit breeding frequency to protect the health of the mother cats and ensure quality over quantity.
12What health issues are common in this breed, and how do you screen for them?
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What health issues are common in this breed, and how do you screen for them?
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Why this works
Honest discussion about breed-specific health concerns shows transparency and helps you make an informed decision.
13Will the kitten be spayed or neutered, or is that my responsibility?
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Will the kitten be spayed or neutered, or is that my responsibility?
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Why this works
Understanding spay/neuter arrangements helps you plan for medical care and costs while ensuring ethical breeding practices.
14What documentation will I receive, including pedigree papers?
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What documentation will I receive, including pedigree papers?
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Why this works
Proper documentation verifies the cat's lineage and gives you important health records for your veterinarian.
15How do you select which kittens go to which homes?
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How do you select which kittens go to which homes?
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Why this works
Good breeders match personality and energy levels to homes rather than just first-come, first-served, ensuring better outcomes.
16What questions do you have for me about my home and lifestyle?
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What questions do you have for me about my home and lifestyle?
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Why this works
A breeder who thoroughly screens potential owners cares about their kittens' welfare and long-term placement success.
17What ongoing support do you provide after I take the kitten home?
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What ongoing support do you provide after I take the kitten home?
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Why this works
Continued support shows commitment to their kittens' welfare and provides you with a knowledgeable resource for questions.
18Have any kittens from recent litters had health or behavioral issues?
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Have any kittens from recent litters had health or behavioral issues?
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Why this works
Honest disclosure about problems demonstrates integrity and gives you realistic expectations about potential challenges.
19What is the typical personality and energy level of cats from your breeding lines?
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What is the typical personality and energy level of cats from your breeding lines?
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Why this works
Understanding breed lines helps you select a kitten whose temperament matches your lifestyle and expectations.
20Can you provide contact information for previous buyers I can speak with?
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Can you provide contact information for previous buyers I can speak with?
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Why this works
References from past customers offer unbiased perspectives on the breeder's practices and the health of their cats.
Choosing a Responsible Cat Breeder
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Visit in Person
Always visit the cattery in person to see the conditions, meet the cats, and assess the breeder's operation firsthand.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off about the breeder or their practices, walk away - there are many responsible breeders available.
Do Your Research
Learn about breed-specific health issues and breed standards before meeting breeders so you can ask informed questions.
Take Your Time
Don't rush the decision - reputable breeders often have waiting lists, which is actually a good sign of quality.
Red Flags to Watch For
Warning Signs of Irresponsible Breeding
Common Pitfalls
Don't Buy from Pet Stores
Pet store kittens often come from kitten mills with poor breeding practices and health issues - buy directly from breeders or adopt.
Avoid Online-Only Breeders
Legitimate breeders want to meet you in person and show you their operation - be wary of those who only communicate online.
Don't Overlook Rescue Organizations
Many breed-specific rescue organizations have purebred cats available for adoption at lower costs than breeders.