How to Buy a Cat

From LoveToKnow Buy

Cats are great pets that add warmth and companionship to our lives. Choosing the right cat takes a little effort but the reward is knowing you have a pet that will be with you a long time.

Tips on buying a cat

1. First, choose the breed of cat that is right for you. There are many books and web sites that show different breeds of cats and that discuss their personalities. One good site is Cat Fanciers . Browse their guides to figure out which breed seems to suit you best. Do you prefer long hair or short hair cats? Dark, light or calico? There are many choices, so take your time when considering which cat is most likely to make a good choice for you.

2. Purebred kittens are conceived and born in a cattery. You need to locate a reputable cattery for the breed you are considering. There are several ways to do this. One is by talking with a local veterinarian. Find out if the vet knows of regional catteries for the breed you want or if the vet knows of an owner of the breed to whom you can talk. A breed owner is more likely than not to have leads on where to find a reputable cattery. Also, there are directories of catteries on the web. Browse by breed or location at sites such as Fanciers Breeder Referral List or Cattery Search .

3. Once you find a cattery or two to check out, communicate with the owners before visiting. Seeing a litter of cute kittens may weaken your resolve to ask all the right questions of the breeder. That is why it is important to communicate with the cattery owner first. Ask important questions such as how long the owner has been breeding cats in general and the breed you want in particular. Have the owner send you a copy of the litter's pedigree and proof that the litter's parents have been tested for general feline diseases as well as any diseases or conditions associated with the specific breed.

4. Once you are satisfied that the cattery in question is professionally run and reputable, it is time to visit. When considering a litter, you want to make sure you have a good idea of a kitten's health and personality. Ask the cattery owner when the best time is to see the kittens - when they are awake and active - and plan your visit accordingly. Choose a kitten that is playful, curious and spry. Avoid kittens that seem sickly, fatigued, or overly afraid.

5. Now it is time to purchase your kitten. Make sure you receive the pedigree papers for the kitten, as well as a list of the shots it has received and those it will need in the coming months. Then, go home and watch you kitten grow into a pretty, loving cat.

Caution

Always ensure that the kitten you buy has been given all relevant and necessary inoculations as and when they were required. Breeders usually maintain a resord of what shots were given and when.