by Eliza Sininen

Created on: April 15, 2010

When you've decided to buy a kitten, it might seem easy to walk up to a bunch and fall in love with one, but using more of the head than the heart can make life easier for both you and your new darling. I was a breeder for years, and understand what it's like for buyers, especially when the ball of fluff is so adorable it makes you go weak at the knees!

The first thing to decide is purebred (pedigree) or domestic ("moggie"). Domestic kittens are easy to find, but usually they were unexpected or unplanned, so you never quite know what kind of adult it will become. Some domestic kittens can be marvellously affectionate and well-behaved, but there are just as many violent, antisocial, or unhealthy ones. They do have the advantage of price, though. Purebred kittens usually come from breeders, either Registered ones or unregistered "backyard" ones. Again, these kittens come in all kinds of behavior, appearance and health, so do your homework *before* you fall in love.

Vaccinations, Worming and Health
What ages were shots done? If not, why not? Ask to see the vet's paperwork. Ask when it was last wormed. A "free" kitten is the only excuse for being unvaccinated - you should be careful if that's the case, because the owner may not have been caring for the mother either. Check the kitten's eyes have no weep, and that there is no noticeable material in its ears. The kitten should tolerate being handled even if it doesn't want to snuggle (not all kittens will snuggle strangers, just like humans). A kitten who hisses at a stranger for no reason is badly socialized, so choose again.

Age
The *correct* age to buy is AFTER 9 WEEKS OLD. Sure, they're not as cute as 5 or 6 week kittens, but litter trays and food are not the only thing a kitten learns! Socializing is very important to end up with a friendly adult. Kittens sold too young often "mark" their territory, "knead" your lap with claws, suck on blankets. Some kittens sold very early are aggressive or don't understand fear at all, which is dangerous later on.

Different sellers
If it's a breeder, ask about their registration. Ask to see the mother, and the parents' papers, even if your new baby won't need papers. You don't need papers yourself if don't plan to show or breed your cat. A good breeder will sell the kitten desexed and microchipped. Microchipping is the law in many areas, and a good idea anyway. Some councils require the kitten to be desexed. If you don't plan to become a proper, registered breeder, desex your kitten

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