Should my breeder have a contract? Yes, your breeder should have a contract. A reputable breeder will offer a health guarantee which can range up to a few years. A Contract is part of the written standard of Ethics with RICA. Should I visit the Cattery? A reputable will usually allow a visit to the cattery which should be in/near their home. They may not allow you near newborn kittens who are very susceptible to disease. You should not visit more than one cattery in a day in order to avoid spread of disease. What should I look for in the Cattery? Cats should be happy and socialized. If the males are keep outside then they should come right up to the enclosure and meow to be petted and allow the owner to pick them up. The house or cattery should be clean with no horribly offending odors. Keep in mind, however, you are in a house of cats and some slight smell might be present. The litter boxes are clean, the cats have kitty towers, toys, food and clean water. Ensure that any cats in any enclosed space are at least 6x10 areawise with 10x10 minimum preferred. Will my breeder ask me to spay/neuter? Yes, your breeder should ask you to spay/neuter if not practicing early spay neuter. This should be part of the contract. Should my breeder show their cats? This question for me is an unquestionable YES. Cat shows are where you learn how your program's progression is in comparison with the breed standard. Through shows it is also how you evolve the breed in conjunction with other breeders. The Bengal Breed is still evolving and has come a long way since it's beginning. Showing is in indication that the breeder is committed to producing high quality kittens. Showing is expensive & usually if they aren't showing, they are just looking to make a quick buck. Will I have to put down a deposit? Most breeders require an advance deposit and breeders who practice early spay & neuter may require advance payment before the kitten sees the vet for the procedure as it would not be done to a kitten going to a breeder or non alter show home. Many times placing a deposit before a litter is born is the only way to ensure you have the right to a kitten. Just be sure to ask in just what circumstances the breeder will or will not refund your deposit, such as should the litter fail, you simply change your mind because of a personal reason or an unforeseen expense has incurred, or the color/gender was not delivered. Usually a breeder will only refund a deposit if they are unable to provide said kitten to you or other circumstances that are agreed to when you place your deposit. Should I ask lots of questions? Yes, Yes, YES! We breeders tend to love to talk about our cats, and you should ask us plenty of questions. Questions such as what are the genetic issues with the breed? Every breed has their own problems. Bengals are considered a healthy breed but your breeder should be screening yearly for HCM after a certain age 1-2 years, and should be testing for PK Deficiency (genetic can be tested at birth but usually verified through the two parents). Please see the about section of our site for more information on Bengal Health. The reputable breeder spends time with their cats & kittens. They are concerned with health and temperament and insist on being informed if any health concerns arise. They will be available to help with any questions you may have on the breed and should be well informed. A good breeder will also attend shows and seminars to educate themselves on the progression of the breed in order to evaluate their own program. CHOOSE YOUR BREEDER WISELY Buyers Responsibility Taking care of a pet is a huge responsibility. You could have this kitten for 16-20 years. Are you prepared for it? Could you think of any situation where you wouldn't want a pet, think about having to move our of your apartment, having a new baby, or your financially strapped? While it is an extremely small percentage of pedigreed cats that end up in a shelter, it is a sad case when they do. Please always notify your breeder first and foremost, chances are they can help you. It is also your responsibility to know your state laws. Bengals are a domestic cat but some may consider them Hybrids still due to the use of such terminology among breeders and may be illegal or restricted by license in some states. See the link below. HYBRID LAWS LINKS TICA Looking for a Kitten? Determining the Reputability of a Breeder Questions about Spaying & Neutering TICA Find a Breeder TIBCS Breeder Directory |