Mediation

"I'm just not buying it."

A little guide to avoid buying the proverbial cat in a sack (pig in a poke).

If you are interested in buying a kitten, you can start your search for a kitten or adult animal in different ways. Regardless of how the search begins, you should keep one main rule in mind:

"Only buy a kitten or adult cat if you feel good about it".

These main rules are of great importance to you and the responsible breeders. By buying kittens from breeders who are irresponsible, you maintain irresponsible breeding. You may save a kitten from miserable circumstances, but you ensure that that breeder's cats gives birth to new kittens under the same conditions!

Where can you best start your search?
You can start the search for your ideal kitten in many different places. The article applies regardless of where you start your quest. As a club we advise you to take the time to search well. A good starting point is of course Mundikat's kitten mediation on this website, but there are of course more good starting points. For example, you can find all kinds of lists of catteries and their contact details via internet search engines. You can then approach these catteries individually and inquire about their plans.

The website www.kittentekoop.nl is also a good starting point in the Netherlands. This website offers breeders the opportunity to offer their kittens in a responsible manner. All necessary information including the association where the breeder is a member is listed. In addition to a current kitten offer, this site also contains extensive information about buying and caring for a purebred cat. Finally, you will also find lists of breeders sorted by breed, which lists are very useful if there is just not that kitten you are looking for between the current kitten offer.

Visit the breeder

A visit to the breeder is one of the most important parts of buying a kitten. Contact by phone and / or the internet is of course wonderful, but only by visiting the cattery you can really get a good picture of how the kittens are growing up. It is highly recommended to visit a cattery before discussing a kitten. A visit to a cattery can be very educational, even if there are no kittens at the time. You will still get an impression under what circumstances the kittens grow up and more importantly you have the chance to see the mother and / or father of a future kitten in person.

First impression

Once at the breeder there are some small things you can look out for. One of the most important things is of course the state of health of the cats present. Wet noses, bad condition, unkempt coats and watery eyes are often symptoms of illness or weakening. It is also important to see how the cats are allowed to use the space. Do they have free passage or are they separated from domestic traffic in cages or back rooms? Keep in mind that a stud is often housed separately because it simply needs special care. This does not mean that a stud male should be tucked away, because he also deserves a dignified housing. Along with housing and health, good socialization must of course also be mentioned. It would be weird if you are at a breeder's house and no cat dares to come near you. Also pay close attention to the general hygiene within a cattery. After all, it is the place where your future cat grows up.

The checklist

A short checklist to start your search well prepared. According to Mundikat Breeding & Registration Rules, kittens are only allowed to leave the nest at 12-13 weeks.

The kittens should:
be in possession of a vaccination booklet in which a valid cat and flu vaccination is stated.
also have a Mundikat pedigree.
be free from worms, fleas, mites or other parasites
heavier than 1200 grams (this is the minimum weight)

This concerns the basic requirements that are anchored in the rules that the association has drawn up. These rules can be found under the button “Our Club” and then under "Statutes & Rules". The Breeding & Registration rules and veterinary rules are particularly important to consider.

Finally
So don't be afraid to ask a breeder questions about his or her course of action. Questions create clarity and that can prevent many problems on beforehand. By asking good questions you arm yourself against breeders with less noble motives. It is therefore best to inquire at a few catteries for a good impression.

The more complete the information you have, the easier it will be to make the right choice. So don't be fooled, just rely on your feeling and ask good questions !!!
If you are unsure, or if you want more information, please contact the Breeding & Registration commission. They will handle all your questions confidentially and try to help you as best they can.