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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. There is an abundance of cats needing adoption, including even pedigree cats, so the price of kittens offered for sale is not particularly high and usually barely covers the investment in the cats and their special needs.

Most importantly - if you are presently keeping pedigree cats as pets, do not hesitate to neuter them unless

- You have decided to devote a major portion of your life to acquiring the necessary knowledge and equipment to become a successful breeder and,

- The cats you possess the right genetic qualities.

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.

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.

Photo Credit : Waltham