There are kittens of Show standard and those of 'pet quality', equally loveable, but do not quite reach the exacting Standard for the breeds. The breeder will discuss your requirements prior to selling you a kitten, you must expect a preliminary visit to see your prospective kitten; be prepared to answer questions regarding the suitability of your circumstances for a prospective kitten. Oriental cats are not happy when left alone without a companion, or your company, during the day; be careful and be honest if you have very young children or other cats or dogs. Ask for advice about introducing the new kitten into your home. Most breeders are anxious to find the right home for their kittens and will give you lots of advice about diet and what to expect.
Never purchase a kitten that is less than at least 12 weeks old, the kitten should be fully inoculated against enteritis and cat 'flu, possibly FeLV - a fatal and unpleasant cat virus.
You will receive papers giving the full pedigree of your kitten and should register it with GCCF as soon as possible, some breeders will request that the kitten be placed on the non-active register, this is to protect the kitten from the possibility of being purchased as a brood queen with too many pregnancies.
GCCF Cat Protection and FAB have useful advice about kittens and are happy to help with advice about general care.
Please remember breeders expect you to keep the kitten for the rest of its natural life. The Club recommends that, in the event of a change of circumstances resulting in not being able to keep the kitten/cat, you should contact the breeder or the Club - either will arrange for re-homing. |
