OVERVIEW....
So you want to be a cat breeder... Breeding and showing cats can be very rewarding, but it can also be very time consuming and expensive.
So before you start there are some questions you need to ask yourself.
-
Why do I want to breed?
-
Have I the time, patience and understanding?
-
Can I afford it - equipment, stud fees, vet bills, extra food - to name just a few of the extras?
-
Have I researched the subject thoroughly?
-
Have I discussed this with the experts (other breeders)?
-
How will my human family feel about the idea, will they agree?
-
Will I be able to sell my kittens? (Perhaps there are already many established breeders in the area?
If the answer is still yes then here’s is where you should start.
1. The best way to start is to decided on the cat breed you want to breed.
The easiest way to do this is to visit cat shows and discuss with various breeders the pros and cons of their particular breed.
2. Check online for information of the breed’s history, temperament, and any health issues the breed your are interested in
may have.
3. Become a member of a registered Cat club, Most of the members are registered breeders and will assist you in any way 0they can in your endeavour to become a breeder.
FACTS
By breeding pedigree cats, you are making a commitment to care for the welfare of every cat you breed and sell. Reputable breeders will be concerned where their cats are placed and continue to show an interest in the welfare of their kittens after they have gone to their new homes.
You should only breed from top quality cats. Breeders are continuously striving to improve the breeds and by breeding from the best cats, they are able to meet the breed standard and improve their future litters. Before visiting a breeder for a breeding queen, always check that they have suitable breeding quality kittens for you to view.
If you are planning to breed from your pedigree queen, you will need to find a suitable stud cat. The Club you have joined can supply you with a list of reputable breeders. You can also meet breeders at cat shows.
.
A female cat is mature from about six months and a male cat from about ten months. A female cat comes into season in two-week cycles for two to four days depending on the breed of cat. (Siamese, Oriental etc can be prolific breeders). It is not advisable to breed a queen before she is at least one year old.