Cat Buying Guide — Key Checkpoints When Getting a Kitten from a Breeder

Purchasing a kitten directly from a breeder offers many advantages. However, unscrupulous breeders exist, so knowing how to choose wisely is essential.

Benefits of Buying from a Breeder

• Meet the parents: Directly verify their build, temperament, and health
• Inspect the environment: Assess whether kittens are raised in appropriate conditions
• Detailed information: Learn about diet, vaccination history, and favorite activities
• Ongoing support: Consult the breeder throughout your cat's life
• No middleman markup: Direct purchase means fair pricing

What to Check During a Visit

Facility and Environment - Clean and organized breeding space - Cats have adequate living space - No foul odors or signs of stress - Sufficient food and water provided

Kitten Health Assessment - **Eyes**: Bright and alert with minimal discharge - **Nose**: Small amounts of clear discharge are normal; yellow or green indicates infection - **Ears**: No waxy buildup or bad odor - **Coat**: Shiny with no dandruff or skin redness - **Body condition**: Ribs slightly palpable (not excessively thin) - **Behavior**: Curious and active, not lethargic

Document Verification - **Vaccination certificate**: Dates, vaccine types, and next scheduled vaccination - **Pedigree papers**: Issued by recognized organizations such as JCF (Japan Cat Federation) - **Health certificate**: A veterinary report for added assurance

Ideal Age for Adoption

By law, kittens cannot be sold before 56 days (8 weeks). However, the 8-12 week period is crucial for socialization with siblings and the mother. Breeders who wait until 12 weeks or later typically produce better-socialized kittens.

Red Flags

Be cautious if: - Visits are refused; purchase is pressured through photos/videos only - Parent cats are not shown - Kittens are offered before 8 weeks of age - Vaccination certificates or pedigree papers are missing or "coming later" - Prices are drastically below market value - Facilities are unsanitary or kittens are crowded in small spaces

Safe Purchasing on Bri-Choku

Bri-Choku only allows verified, trustworthy breeders to list. You can review breeder profiles and feedback, and submit questions or visit requests in advance.

First Day at Home

• Give space: Minimize stimulation while the kitten adjusts to the new environment
• Start with a small area: Let the kitten acclimate in a cage before expanding access
• Continue the same food: Sudden diet changes cause digestive issues
• Introductions to children/pets: Keep separate for the first few days, then introduce gradually