How to find a kitten breeder

Before you rush off to the nearest pet store, let’s talk about how to find a reputable kitten breeder. This isn’t just about picking the first name you see online. It’s about ensuring you get a healthy, well-socialised kitten. From a breeder who genuinely has cats’ backs.

If you’re in the UK, the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) should be your starting point. 

Think of the GCCF as the gold standard for cat breeders. It’s the largest cat registration body in the UK, setting the benchmark for pedigree breeding practices. By choosing a GCCF-registered breeder, you’re already a step ahead in ensuring your new kitten comes from a reputable source. You can find a list of GCCF-registered breeders on their official website. Which makes the search process straightforward and reliable.

When it comes to picking a particular breeder? Here are the questions you should ask:

Are they all-in for cat health?

A reputable breeder prioritises the health and welfare of their cats. Which means regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings for genetic conditions. Ask to see health certificates and records.

Are the kittens in a clean and stimulating environment?

The breeding environment should be clean, spacious, and stimulating for the cats. They should have plenty of room to play, explore, and socialise. Avoid breeders with cramped, dirty, or overly crowded facilities.

Are they socialising their kittens? 

And we’re not talking dinner parties while the kittens sit in the other room. We mean interacting with them regularly, and exposing them to different sounds, sights, and people. So they grow up confident and well-adjusted.

Do they follow ethical breeding practices? 

Ethical breeders follow responsible breeding practices. Which means they don’t churn out kittens for profit. And focus instead on improving the breed. Which includes avoiding overbreeding and ensuring genetic diversity.

Are they transparent with you?

A trustworthy breeder will be open and honest with you. They’ll be happy to answer your questions. Show you their facilities. And let you meet the kittens’ parents. If a breeder seems cagey or evasive, walk away.

Do they offer aftercare and support?

The relationship shouldn’t end once you take your kitten home. A good breeder offers ongoing support and advice. They care about where their kittens go. And will want to keep in touch to make sure everything is going well.

Do they have the right paperwork? 

Never overlook the paperwork. Make sure you receive all the necessary documentation. Including registration papers, vaccination records, and a health guarantee. This paperwork is essential for your kitten’s future health and wellbeing.

Even in the world of kitten breeding, there are a few shady characters. Here are some red flags:

High Turnover: If a breeder always has kittens available, be wary. Ethical breeders usually have waiting lists. (Because they don’t overbreed.)

Lack of Questions: Good breeders will ask you plenty of questions. To make sure that their kittens are going to a suitable home. If they don’t seem to care about your living situation or experience with cats? That’s a bad sign.

No References or Reviews: If previous buyers aren’t singing their praises, there’s probably a reason why.

Once you’ve found a breeder who ticks all the boxes, it’s time to choose your kitten. Remember, this little furball will be a part of your family for years to come. So find out more about choosing the right kitten here.