How to Choose a Responsible Cattery: A Guide for New Cat Parents

1. What Makes a Cattery “Responsible”?

• Health First: Kittens are tested for genetic diseases (e.g., HCM in Bengals, PKD in Persians) and receive age-appropriate vaccinations. Parents are screened for hereditary conditions.
• Socialization: Kittens grow up in a home-like environment, interacting with humans and other cats daily. They’re not kept in tiny cages—you’ll see them playing, climbing, and cuddling in clean, stimulating spaces.
• Ethical Breeding: They focus on improving the breed, not profit. Litters are limited (most breeders have 1–3 per queen annually), and cats are retired from breeding humanely when they’re no longer healthy.
  
  

2. Red Flags to Avoid: Spotting “Backyard Breeders” or Puppy Mills (for Cats!)

• “No Visits Allowed”: Reputable catteries welcome visits to show their facilities. If they make excuses (e.g., “it’s too stressful for the cats”), walk away.
• Overbreeding: A cattery with dozens of cats or multiple litters at once is likely prioritizing profit. Queens shouldn’t have back-to-back litters—this harms their health.
• No Health Guarantees: A responsible breeder will offer a health contract (covering genetic issues for 1–2 years) and provide vet records for kittens and parents.
• “Designer Mixes” Without Breed Knowledge: Breeding “exotic” mixes (e.g., “Sphynx-Persian hybrids”) without understanding breed-specific health risks is a red flag for ignorance or greed.

3. How to Research a Cattery: Step-by-Step

1. Check Credentials: Look for memberships in reputable organizations (e.g., The International Cat Association [TICA], Cat Fanciers’ Association [CFA]). These groups have strict ethical standards.
2. Read Reviews & Ask Questions:
   • What’s their policy on returning a cat if the adopter can’t keep them?
   • Do they take back cats at any age if the adoption fails?
   • How do they socialize kittens with children, dogs, or other pets?
3. Visit the Cattery In-Person:
   • Environment: Is it clean? Do cats have access to fresh water, proper litter, and enrichment (climbing trees, toys)?
   • Cat Behavior: Are the cats curious and friendly, or fearful and withdrawn? A stressed cat is a sign of poor care.
   • Parent Cats: Meet the mother (and father, if possible). They should be healthy, well-tempered, and comfortable around humans.
     

4. The Adoption Process: What to Expect from a Good Cattery

• Interview You: Ask about your home, lifestyle, and experience with cats. This isn’t rude—it’s to ensure the kitten fits your life.
• Spay/Neuter Policy: Most require kittens to be fixed by a certain age (often included in the adoption fee) to prevent unplanned breeding.
• Post-Adoption Support: Offer ongoing advice and stay in touch. Some even host “kitten reunions” to see how their cats are doing!

5. Why Choosing a Responsible Cattery Matters

• Supporting Ethical Practices: Reducing demand for backyard breeders and mills that mistreat animals.
• Investing in Health: Well-bred cats are less likely to develop genetic disorders, saving you vet bills long-term.
• Getting a Well-Socialized Pet: Kittens raised in loving environments are more adaptable, confident, and ready to bond with your family.

Bonus: Questions to Ask a Breeder

• Can I see health certificates for the kitten’s parents?
• What diet do you feed the kittens?
• When was the kitten weaned, and how was the process handled?
• Do you have a waiting list, and how does the selection process work?

Conclusion: Patience Pays Off