How to become a cat breeder

Becoming a cat breeder is not a decision to take lightly. It is advisable to have a true passion for the chosen breed that you want to breed. It also helps to have knowledge on the breed.

Things to consider when deciding whether to become a cat breeder:

1. The first thing to do when deciding to become a breeder is to choose the pedigree that you want to breed. You can do this by reading up on genetics and gain 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.

2. It is important to be aware that breeding can be costly. The costs that have to be considered are the purchase price of the cats, vet bills, registration and license fees, food, supplies and advertising. The list continues and will grow even more when your litter is born.  

3. Check that you have sufficient space for your cats and litters. A designated area is ideal such as a spare room, a basement or utility room. The cattery should have cages for both the females and males, there should be a grooming area, a bathing area, a feeding area with food and water storage and lots of room to play and have fun. It is ideal to have a room that you do not use normally as the litters will need to be in a quiet environment, for example a working utility with a loud washing machine on every day is not ideal for the newborn kittens.

4. Check the laws surrounding cat breeding. There are laws on the amount of litters your cat can have each year and the age your cat is when you breed her etc

5. Why not build on your knowledge by attending cat shows where you can speak to other breeders and gain invaluable hints and tips? It is handy to know when the shows are as it is a good platform for networking once your kittens have been born.

Registering yourself as a cat breeder:

It is important to register yourself as a cat breeder. There are only two governing bodies which govern cat breeding. They are known as The GCFF and The FB. The GCCF is the primary governing body of the Cat Fancy in the United Kingdom - the feline equivalent of the Kennel Club. It registers an average of 30,000 pedigree cats per year. The FB stands for Felis Britannica. When potential kitten owners are looking for a reputable breeder they will look for the prefix FB or GCCF as a guide to know that as a breeder you are registered.