GCCF code of ethics - buying a new kitten

[Fran]

Originally Posted by Elaine

I'd like to ask just how you go about finding a reputable breeder?

For me the best way of finding a reputable breeder is by word of mouth and recommendation. Most of my puppies are sold this way and through vets that have seen my puppies and have recommended me to other prospective new owners. All my last litter of pups were sold on recommendation and the new owners were all waiting on the litter prior to it being born. I guess it's the same with pedigree cats, I have only had 3 previous litters, yet one of those who had two of my kittens from my last litter have contacted me r.e. having another kitten from my currrent litter. Speaks volumes I think if people come back for another pup/kitten and recommend you to other prospective new owners

[borderdawn]

I never protrayed the GCCF as being God, merely posted their guidelines so that people new to pedigree cat ownership would know.

It did seem that way Fran, and with what Kay was saying, which is why I responded.

I agree that buying a GCCF reg kitten does not guarantee you are buying from a reputable breeder but a reputable breeder will register their kittens with the GCCF and abide by their rules and regs if you understand what I am saying.

I do understand what you are aying Fran but Im pleased you agree that just because a breeder registers kittens with the GCCF, its in no way a guarantee that that breeder is in fact an ethical or responsible one in their breeding practice. Thats what I was trying to get across.

Regards the age thing, I understand fully where you are coming from but I feel if the kitten is brought up with the knowledge of a breeder aware of these issues and who puts the proper time and effort in then there is no reason at all why a kitten of 13 weeks would not adapt to a new home as well as a kitten of 7 weeks JMO

I also agree with that statement. However studies show, as with puppies, kittens go through a very imprortant "socialising and behaviour adaption" phase at 6-8wks, given the fact that many kittens will ONLY have seen other Cats, and perhaps not kids, other people or other animals and may well of been confined to one room for the first 3 months of their lives, it makes perfect sense that in those cases some kittens may have more difficulty adapting at that age, rather than one at 8wks who is at a prime age to adapt to new situations and surroundings.

I am absolutely not saying that kittens shouldnt be registered with the GCCF, as I have said, all mine are and I expected them to be, nor would I of purchased a pedigree kitten without being so, but I didnt like the tone some of the posts which implied thet just because some breeders register kittens and follow their guidelines to a degree, it makes them a responsible breeder or an ethical one, because in so many cases it doesnt. To my way of thinking (I do on occasions ) kitten producers for the pet market will procure a better price for following cetrain guidleines, so it can also be the "farming" scenario as with it is with dogs. Im sure you are aware that many puppy farmers and people who breed purely to supply a pet market, will do all relevant health checks, again to get a better price for their puppies, however it does not mean that they are responsible or ethical in their breeding practice.

How you understand what Im trying to get across.

[charliebubs]

I can see both sides of the argument here. However, I have to say that Yola has said the most sensible thing!! The "personality" of the kitten depends almost entirely on the surroundings in which it is raised and brought up. A nervous kitten would undoubtedly grow into a nervous cat.

I agree that just because a breeder is registered with the GCCF doesn't make them a good and ethical breeder.

Personally, I'm very very happy with the surroundings in which I raise my kittens. I have no problems at all with people who come to see the kittens seeing the whole house, the other cats, the garden etc; as it's important to me that the new owner is happy with my home and the way I do things. This is equally as important as me being happy with the new owner. It's a 2 way relationship.

[borderdawn]

The "personality" of the kitten depends almost entirely on the surroundings in which it is raised and brought up. A nervous kitten would undoubtedly grow into a nervous cat.

Not always, but in many cases I agree with your statement.

Personally, I'm very very happy with the surroundings in which I raise my kittens. I have no problems at all with people who come to see the kittens seeing the whole house, the other cats, the garden etc; as it's important to me that the new owner is happy with my home and the way I do things. This is equally as important as me being happy with the new owner. It's a 2 way relationship.

Cant argue with that at all.

[charliebubs]

Originally Posted by borderdawn

Cant argue with that at all.

Woo hoo!!!!!!!!!! Something we agree on, Dawn I've missed your opinions on here - you should start posting more again

[Jac]

Well my little kitten is doing great. Infact I was weeding the garden and she sat on the window ledge (inside) watching me . I had a bath last night and she nearly landed in beside me.
Now before I got her she was in a cupboard with a light and her brothers and sisters. A litter tray and food. No toys nothing. She loves her scratch post, toys and cuddles.
If I have been out I come in and shout her name she comes running like a dog
Edited to add. She had one mishap with her poo when I first brought her home since then she goes to the tray everytime

[Moli]

Sounds as if she has settled in well Jac's......

[Jac]

haha she has...she rules the roost

[dandysmom]

Originally Posted by Jac

haha she has...she rules the roost

Has you wrapped around that little paw, doesn't she ......

[Jac]

Yip.... but then were all softies