Buying a Cat

[DoubleSix]

Mirroring a recent post on here... except for the shock collar bit!!

I've recently moved into what I hope will be my family home for the foreseeable future, wanted a cat for ages, now is the time!

So, our old neighbours had a Birman. It was not only a beautiful looking thing but had the sweetest temperament and would roll over at the merest hint of a stroke. I've been Googling for kittens and the site that always comes up is Pets4homes.co.uk

Now I'd love to pick a kitten from this site secretly sneak off and pick it up to surprise the other half. However, I've read that buying a pet online is a 'bad thing' and can end in tears.

So I guess I'm looking for general PH views on this method of finding a pet a what I need to do to ensure I don't make a mess of it. Certificates, inoculations etc

Oh, and I really would like it to be small and very much a kitten, can someone offer guidance on what age they actually become more catlike. I don't wish to drive 100 miles to find out I'm buying a fully grown cat and the owners have enjoyed the initial kitten stage all for themselves (I know they don't stay like that ).

Thanks all

Edited by DoubleSix on Friday 20th July 18:45

[Andy_GSA]

I don't know anything about Birmans specifically but have bought a number of Maine Coons over the years. Have a look at a breed-specific club such as The Birman Cat Club who have a kitten register and breeder register. Contact some local breeders and see if you can visit them to see how they keep their cats, any decent breeder will be happy for you to have a look whether they've got any kittens or not. Generally a breeder will also want to be happy you're able to look after the cat before agreeing to sell you a kitten.

Breeders generally don't let kittens go until they're 13 weeks old and vaccinated. How long the kitten will be 'kittenish' depends on the breed to a certain extent but at least a few months.

You may also find some breed-specific rescue societies will also have cats/kittens available.

Before you do agree to buy please do make sure you know exactly what level of commitment you're getting into!

[AMLK]

Have you thought of a rescue kitten?

I've always had rescue cats and they have been amazing animals, you just know when you meet them whether they are right for you. In fact we are off to a rescue tomorrow to meet what we hope is our next next cat.

You may need to go on a waiting list to get a kitten rather than a cat, but I would still urge you to consider a rescue, but understand if that is not the road you want to go down.

[Jasandjules]

AMLK said:

Have you thought of a rescue kitten?

This.

There are soooo many cats who need a home.

[anonymous-user]

Just get one from someone in the village, preferably a hard-as-nails tabby. Best cats ever.

[Dan_1981]

Go to your local rescue.

[ali_kat]

And another vote for your local rescue centre

Cats chose you, you don't chose them!

[bexVN]

Whilst I agree re. rescue cats I'd say if the OP has their heart set on a Birman we should respect that. So I agree with above link and also look in cat magazines they have ads in the back which are usually genuine breeders. Don't go cheap, don't go for a breeder that has several different breeds on the in and check paperwork for pedigree history. Just a few starting points.

Edited by bexVN on Friday 20th July 23:04

[Simpo Two]

Note also that it will be a kitten only for about 6 months and then an adult cat for the next 14+ years.

[bexVN]

Simpo Two said:

Note also that it will be a kitten only for about 6 months and then an adult cat for the next 14+ years.

Try telling my 17yr old that. Until a yr ago he played all the time as though he were a kitten. He still has his moments now but they are much fewer.

[CR6ZZ]

If you don't go for a rescue cat I can definitely recommend Birmans. We have had four over the years and they have, without exception, all had a wonderful nature and continue being playful until well into their old age.

[vixen1700]

Yep, go for a rescue cat.

[8bit]

Even if you're set on a specific breed then it's worth keeping an eye on the rehoming centers. We got two Maine Coons from a local place last year.