Questions to Ask Cat Breeders
Questions to Ask Cat Breeders
Essential questions to ensure you're working with a responsible breeder and getting a healthy, well-socialized kitten.
1Can I see the kitten's parents and their health certificates?
Can I see the kitten's parents and their health certificates?
Verifies genetic health and allows you to assess temperament and physical characteristics of the parents.
2What health testing has been done on the parents?
What health testing has been done on the parents?
Ensures the breeder is screening for genetic diseases common to the breed, preventing future health issues.
3How old are the kittens and when can they go home?
How old are the kittens and when can they go home?
Kittens should stay with their mother until at least 8-12 weeks for proper socialization and weaning.
4What vaccinations and veterinary care have the kittens received?
What vaccinations and veterinary care have the kittens received?
Confirms the kittens have received age-appropriate vaccinations and health checks from a veterinarian.
5Can I visit your cattery to see the living conditions?
Can I visit your cattery to see the living conditions?
Allows you to assess cleanliness, space, and how the cats are cared for in their environment.
6What is the kitten's personality like and how has it been socialized?
What is the kitten's personality like and how has it been socialized?
Helps you understand the kitten's temperament and ensures it has been properly socialized with people and other animals.
7Do you provide a health guarantee and what does it cover?
Do you provide a health guarantee and what does it cover?
Protects you against genetic health issues and shows the breeder stands behind their breeding program.
8What is included in the purchase price?
What is included in the purchase price?
Clarifies what documentation, supplies, or services are included to avoid unexpected costs.
9Can you provide references from previous kitten buyers?
Can you provide references from previous kitten buyers?
Allows you to speak with other families about their experience with the breeder and their cats.
10What do you feed the kittens and what should I continue feeding?
What do you feed the kittens and what should I continue feeding?
Ensures dietary consistency and helps you maintain the kitten's current nutrition plan.
11How do you handle early spay/neuter or what are your recommendations?
How do you handle early spay/neuter or what are your recommendations?
Important for understanding the breeder's approach to responsible pet ownership and population control.
12What happens if I can no longer care for the cat?
What happens if I can no longer care for the cat?
Shows the breeder's commitment to their cats' lifelong welfare and responsible rehoming policies.
13Are the parents registered with a cat registry and can I see the papers?
Are the parents registered with a cat registry and can I see the papers?
Verifies the cat's pedigree and ensures you're getting a purebred cat with documented lineage.
14What is the kitten's current weight and how has it been growing?
What is the kitten's current weight and how has it been growing?
Helps assess the kitten's health and development, ensuring it's growing at a normal rate.
15How do you socialize the kittens with children and other pets?
How do you socialize the kittens with children and other pets?
Important if you have a family or other animals, ensuring the kitten will adapt well to your household.
16What are the common health issues for this breed and how do you screen for them?
What are the common health issues for this breed and how do you screen for them?
Educates you about potential breed-specific health concerns and the breeder's prevention strategies.
17Can I see the kitten's medical records and vaccination certificates?
Can I see the kitten's medical records and vaccination certificates?
Provides documentation of all veterinary care and ensures you have complete health history.
18What is your policy on returning the kitten if there are health issues?
What is your policy on returning the kitten if there are health issues?
Clarifies the breeder's responsibility and your options if serious health problems are discovered.
19How do you handle the transition period and what support do you provide?
How do you handle the transition period and what support do you provide?
Shows the breeder's commitment to helping you and the kitten adjust during the first few weeks.
20What makes your breeding program special and why should I choose you?
What makes your breeding program special and why should I choose you?
Allows the breeder to highlight their expertise, experience, and what sets them apart from others.
Want to learn more?
How to Choose a Responsible Cat Breeder
Want to learn more?
How to Choose a Responsible Cat Breeder
Red Flags to Watch For
Avoid These Warning Signs
Breeders who won't let you visit, have multiple litters available immediately, can't provide health certificates, or pressure you to buy quickly are major red flags.
Unhealthy Living Conditions
Dirty facilities, overcrowded spaces, or cats that appear unhealthy or unsocialized indicate poor breeding practices.
What to Look For
Health Documentation
Reputable breeders provide comprehensive health records, genetic testing results, and vaccination certificates for both parents and kittens.
Proper Socialization
Good breeders expose kittens to various people, sounds, and experiences to ensure they're well-adjusted and confident.
Lifetime Support
Responsible breeders offer ongoing support, take cats back if needed, and maintain relationships with kitten families.
Before You Visit
Research the Breed
Learn about breed characteristics, health issues, grooming needs, and temperament to ensure it's right for your lifestyle.
Prepare Your Questions
Write down all your questions beforehand so you don't forget anything important during your visit.