 |
 Cat Breeds - There are a variety of different cat breeds. Read about the many domestic cat breeds, including the Maine Coon and Siamese cats. And view the many cat breeds pictures to see how each breed differs dramatically in coat length and overall look.
|
|
|
|
|
Cat Breeders. Information on cat breeders and breeding cats. Covers the evaluation of cats for breeding purposes and guidance on choosing possible mates.
|
CAT BREEDERS
Cat Breeds
Cat breeds are customarily divided into two major categories -
longhaired and shorthaired cats. In each of these categories, there
is a variety of specific breeds.
Cat associations in Europe and the
United States officially set the standards of each breed.
What is Professional Breeding?
Professional breeding of cats in
catteries is a complex business. You may think that it is enough to
buy any purebred cats and start breeding them. In fact, it requires
a good understanding of genetics governing each breed and detailed
knowledge of the breeding history of the specific breeding pair.
Most pedigree cats are unsuitable for further breeding. These are
called "pet quality" and are usually neutered and sold as pets to
non-breeders.
In fact, only few of the kittens born to a pair of
pedigree cats of the same breed have the right genetic qualities to
be used as breeding cats. These are called "show quality" and are
relatively rare and expensive.
It is especially important to know
the diseases and genetic flaws typical of each breed, in order not
to breed cats that have these flaws.
Pedigree cats are often more
sensitive to diseases and stress, and hence, more money and time
must be invested in maintaining their health and living conditions.
When cats are kept for breeding, they also need special habitats and
nutrition. All these factors greatly increase the cost of running a
professional cattery. Anyone who is thinking of entering the field
of professional breeding in the hope of financial gain should think
again.
Neutering the cat does not prevent you from actively showing the cat
in professional cat shows. You can show your cat and compete for
prizes in special categories reserved for neutered pedigree cats.
|
|
|
|
|
|
 Cats for Sale - Read about the various places cats are for sale. Information on cats for sale at animal shelters, various breeders and pet shops as well as advice on what to look for and questions to ask when looking at cats for sale.
 Catteries - Important information on all you need to know about catteries. Advice on how to look for a reputable cattery, what facilities you should look for and commmon questions to ask.
Most responsible breeders will not sell you a
pet-quality kitten without a written agreement in which they make
sure the cat will be neutered and will not be allowed to reproduce.
Breeding Cats
Before breeding your cat, visit your veterinarian. The vet can make
sure your cat is healthy to breed, currently vaccinated and free
from internal and external parasites.
It is particularly important with purebred cats to be aware of
any potentially inherited problems, because each breed has a
tendency to develop certain diseases or conditions.
Select a Mate
Choose a mate that best complements your cat's
temperament and physical characteristics. All purebreds recognized
by various kennel clubs have a set of physical standards considered
to be the goal of breeding a litter of kittens.
Check the breed
standard guides for your particular cat and then evaluate your cat
against the accepted standard. Look for a mate that best complements
and balances your cats structure, temperament, colour and size.
Understand Your Cat's Reproductive Cycle
A female becomes fertile several times a year. This is known as the
heat cycle, and for a few specific days within this cycle, she will
be fertile and accept a male.
A successful breeding may require
several encounters between male and female to ensure a pregnancy.
|
|
Back
Site written by Gemma Littlemore