FriendYou may know of someone whose cat has just had a litter of kittens, or be aware of an older cat who needs rehoming. In this situation, you are likely to know how the kitten has been brought up and may be able to visit regularly before you take it home. Make sure that the kitten stays with its mother until at least 8 weeks of age.
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If you want to get a pedigree cat, a breeder is the best option. Contact the relevant breed society to find out more about your chosen breed and for contact details of breeders. Visit a few breeders, but never on the same day or with the same clothes. Check that the kittens have been born and reared inside and are used to being handled. Their pen should be clean with no sign of diarrhoea and all kittens should be active and playful.
Most breeders will ensure that their kittens have had at least one vaccination before going to their new homes.
If you have any doubts over the health and welfare of the kittens, DO NOT buy a kitten from that breeder.
Although some people who advertise in local newspapers may be genuine, be very careful of getting a kitten from them. Make sure that you see the kitten with its mother and ensure that all kittens present are healthy as described above. Kittens that are 'free to a good home' may seem like a bargain but are likely to cost you a fortune in vet's bills in the future!
I would urge you NOT to buy a kitten from a pet shop. They often suffer from diseases and are generally not well socialised. The fewer people who buy kittens from pet shops, the fewer pet shops will stock them and kitten welfare will hopefully improve.
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