Non-pedigreed or domestic mixed-breed cats are sometimes offered to an unsuspecting and uninformed public with further claims being made for DISCOUNTED purebred animals “without papers”. Let me clarify why this claim is not only false as defined by the Canadian Animal Pedigree Act, but may constitute fraud according to Section 380 of the Criminal Code of Canada.

Comparison of kitten purchased as "Lynxpoint Siamese" from a petstore (Left) and a Purebred, pedigreed Lynxpoint Siamese from a registered breeder (Right). Petstore Siamese cost more !!

Animals must be registered to qualify for purebred status. Pedigree papers (list of ancestors) alone are not proof of registration. Association-issued registration slips are easily and inexpensively (about $ 10.00 per litter)  obtained by certified breeders. Any claims that a litter is not registered due to high costs should be suspect. The registration slip is your guarantee that not only is the animal truly an example of the breed claimed, but  the breeder as recognized by a registering association, is bona fide.   

ETHICAL BREEDERS are registered with one or more associations and work within the guidelines and ethics of these associations. We are familiar with the fundamentals of genetics, health care and specifics of our chosen breeds.   Care is taken to produce top quality, healthy and well-socialized animals. This is accomplished by working a genetically sound breeding program which has documented several years of ancestors or bloodlines, as well as working closely with a veterinarian, routinely testing/monitoring for virus such as Aids and Leukemia. We know that quality is produced with great effort and are willing to put forth that effort.  In other words, producing viable animals entails more than just putting any male and female together, prematurely (earlier than 12 weeks of age) marketing the litter for a quick profit before babies are properly weaned, socialized or health certified.  The adoption fees charged do not begin to cover all of our expenses.  Ethical breeders are motivated by our love for our animals and desire to contribute to the breed in a lasting and positive way.  We show our finest animals thereby gaining credibility by confirming the success of our breeding program against a breed standard and networking with other breeders.  Our hobbies often grow into full time endeavors! 

ETHICAL breeders do not supply pet stores or animal shelters.  Pet stores often sell their animals without any substantial guarantee.  These animals can be obtained by “donation” or from “mills” which mass market for profit.  Animals in stores or shelters can be very young and as a result, have been subjected to health risks at an age when they have limited immunity.   After being alternately caged and handled by the general public, these animals are often unsociable and adjustment and health problems soon follow.  Disease contracted earlier as well as genetic defects can show up months down the road.  Incubation for contagious disease can vary from two weeks to several months !  Animals without active disease can be “silent carriers” which means that while they may not exhibit signs of illness at time of purchase, they are still contagious.  These animals can exhibit signs of virus when stressed, such as running nose, sneezing and sticky eyes. 

ETHICAL breeders place our animals on a written contract.   This means that before registration is turned over to a new owner, the pet must be surgically altered (neutered or spayed) and proof supplied by the attending veterinarian.  Pets are not bred.  Only the very best animals are retained to to pass on their genetics.  By ensuring our pets are altered, breeders are not guilty of contributing to a pet overpopulation problem.   

ETHICAL breeders genuinely care about animals. While  over-the-counter customers are seldom questioned at stores or by amateur breeders, ethical breeders go to great lengths to ensure our pets are well cared for and are going to responsible homes.   As a prospective client, you can expect to be questioned and may be asked to provide references.  If you have adopted an animal from an ethical breeder, be assured that you are a new “parent” not a quick sale!  By the time you take delivery of your new pet it will have seen a veterinarian and is litter trained and properly socialized. 

ETHICAL breeders care about our clients.  After you are home, you can expect an initial adjustment period.  Ethical breeders are available to provide assistance and assurance where needed during this settling in.  Do not hesitate to contact the breeder with your questions or concerns.   Many of my long time customers return for second and third kittens and often correspond with photos and updates of loved pets. 

REGISTERED CATTERIES are easy to locate.   In order to find a registered pet, contact your local veterinarian clinic, pet club or any of the associations registering purebred animals.  These can provide you with trustworthy contacts in the pursuit of an appropriate pet.   However, responsibility for choosing the proper environment or breeder remains with you.  Plan to visit a cattery to assure yourself it meets your standards.   Please keep in mind that a breeder can be expected to ask you to change your clothes prior to a visit if you have other pets, and you will be asked to wash your hands in a disinfecting solution before you handle any cats.   You will probably not be allowed to handle young babies, pregnant moms or gain access to male quarters  which are often “closed” as a health measure.  A clean, well-managed cattery will not exude a foul odour and you should be wary if this is encountered.  We will not object to a query to see proper documentation or certification of a litter and will readily produce these.  Most ethical breeders are enthusiastic and will proudly show off their awards, certificates, or photographs.  

For further information on How to Find the Kitten of Your Dreams, click here!

Jan R. De Regt

Jansprettycats
Catkins Siamese
Kairos Oriental Shorthair