Cat lovers spend a great deal of time considering their choice when they decide to bring home a new cat. Some people bring home every stray under the sun, while others carefully select the cat that will bring them the most joy. Buying a purebred cat is similar to buying a purebred dog, with the exception of the relative ease in finding a reputable breeder.
Dog breeders are easy to find since dog breeds are so plentiful, and there are always potential owners looking for their ideal breed. Cat breeders, however, must be more selective because purebred cats are less common. In fact, many cat owners and cat fanciers aren’t even aware that purchasing a purebred cat, other than a Siamese, is an option. Many people go about the process with little to no information—it can be a “learn as you go” experience.
There are technically 41 breeds of cats bred throughout the United States and Canada. Some breeds have been around since the domestication of cats, while others are relatively recent. Regardless, each breed is unique, with distinct traits that make them so appealing.
Finding a good, quality breeder is key to bringing home a healthy, strong, and loving kitten. It may take some time, especially if you’re looking for a breed that’s not common in your area, but the extra effort, time, and money spent will be well worth it. The Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA) has set strict guidelines for the development and breeding of CFA-recognized breeds. These guidelines are intended to reduce the risks of overbreeding and “cat farming” that puppies have faced. So far, few cat breeders in the United States have violated these regulations, which is why it’s so important to choose the best breeder possible when adopting a purebred cat.
Many people purchase purebred cats to enter them in various cat shows sponsored by the CFA. Those pursuing this path are often already familiar with the breeder’s responsibilities and general requirements. However, newcomers may need a little more education when it comes to buying a purebred cat.
Selecting the Right Purebred Cat for You
Choosing the right purebred cat takes time and a bit of knowledge. Some cats are notably affectionate, while others are much more aloof. Some of these traits are inherent to the breed, while others are simply personality characteristics. For example, while the Ragamuffin breed only qualifies for miscellaneous categories in cat shows, their friendly and personable nature makes them stand out. If you’re looking for a well-bred, healthy companion, this breed could be a great fit. If you’re more interested in shows, breeds like Persians or Orientals might catch your eye.
For some people, it’s important for visitors and friends to instantly recognize that their cat is a purebred. Since most purebred cats resemble the American Shorthair housecat, it can be difficult to tell without prior knowledge. However, some breeds are unmistakably purebred, such as the Maine Coon or the Russian Blue.
Purebred cats offer several advantages over locally adopted shelter cats. For one, the health history of their bloodlines is readily available to anyone who asks. This information can make a significant difference in the cat’s overall health and longevity. Knowing a cat’s breed-specific tendencies for certain health conditions allows you to make a more informed decision.
Behavioral traits are also more predictable, based on the breed and bloodlines. Some people prefer a cozy, cuddly cat, while others prefer a playful and energetic one. These traits vary across breeds as well. By purchasing a purebred cat, you can get a better sense of your kitten’s potential personality.
Most purebred kittens are not released to their new owners until they reach twelve weeks of age, compared to the customary eight weeks for most kittens. The twelve-week mark is generally considered to be a better time for kitten health. While this is true for all kittens, purebred cats are often cared for more attentively by breeders. Alley cats and other non-pedigreed kittens are usually born under accidental circumstances, and the people involved are often just happy to find them homes. These kittens are often separated from their mothers around seven or eight weeks old, and some are even separated as early as six weeks. Research has shown that twelve weeks is a much more suitable age for separating kittens from their mothers.
Naturally, anyone willing to bring a kitten into their home wants what’s best for the animal. This is why taking your time to find the right breed for you and your family, and considering the pros and cons of each breed, is so rewarding when you finally decide to buy a purebred cat. More and more cat lovers are realizing the benefits of purebred kittens, and more families are choosing to adopt them, either for show purposes or simply for the pleasure of owning one of these remarkable cats.
