Buying a Purebreed Kitten
By HollywoodPet.net |
Wed, 27 Dec 2006
Buying a new pet is a joy. A purebreed kitten will give you both pride and joy, but with a little more paperwork. A few basics about purebreed paperwork will bring you and your kitten together with joy and confidence.
With many pets being sold on the side of the road, knowing a little about purebreed paperwork can help you avoid problems later. Many breeders make purebreed claims or claims of great lineage. A few tips will help you be happier with your new kitten.
Get a purchase contract.
A purchase contract is largely like a bill of sale and is a must when buying a purebreed pet. Many times the purchase contract is a standard form put together by breeding clubs. Be sure to watch for clauses in the contract that restrict or require spaying or neutering, or declawing. Many times breeders want the first chance at purchasing back your cat if you find you can no longer keep it. Health guarantees are usually mentioned in the contract too. Many breeders require your pet be taken to a veterinarian to certify it is in good health within a certain amount of time after purchase. A description of your kitten including birthdate and parents name will be included. Don't allow co-ownership or requirements to breed or show your kitten after the sale. Buy your kitten with no strings attached.
Get health records.
A record of all vaccinations, worming, or any other medications received should be included for your veterinarian and your files.
Get a pedigree.
Everyone loves having the pedigree. The family tree of your kitten is a joy to own and to show others. Not getting a copy of your kittens lineage means you will be missing out on something really fun. Depending on what you purchase, some very nice show cats can be in your kittens ancestry. It's very fun stuff.
Get a registration form.
Whole litters of kittens are registered when born. A cat registry keeps record of purebreed kittens. Check to be sure that your cat doesn't have any particular instructions on how your kitten is named. Filling out the form and reading it carefully will get your cat registered after you file and pay a small fee. Some breeders will withhold your kittens registration form until it is proved your kitten has been spayed or neutered. Be sure to get the details from your breeder.
Get information or fact sheets.
A fact sheet is often times included, showing your kittens preferences in diet or cat litter, or any other details. Breed information can be included too to better educate yourself about your kittens breed. Check it over for new information.
A little bit of good choosing of your kitten while being sure to read all papers carefully can insure you get a great kitten you love. Be sure to read everything and ask questions. Going over the basics can help you and your purebreed kitten get off to a great start.