WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A RESPONSIBLE BREEDER:
Things you can expect from a responsible breeder are:
- The breeder should be interested in the welfare of every kitten they produce. They should encourage you to call if you have any questions or concerns about your kitten.
- The breeder should require that your kitten be neutered or spayed. Most breeders will already have the kitten altered if it is of age to do so. If not, an altering agreement should be signed and registration papers held until the breeder receives proof from a qualified veterinarian that the kitten has been altered.
- Provide a written sales agreement and health agreement for the kitten. It should describe the terms of the contract such as genetic defects, neutering/spaying and any other conditions that particular breeder expects.
- The responsible breeder should encourage you or expect for you under contract to take the new kitten to your veterinarian within a certain time frame.
- The kitten should be guaranteed free of Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).
HOW CAN YOU TELL IF A KITTEN IS HEALTHY?
Handle the kitten. It should have good muscle tone, clear eyes and it should be clean. The eyes should be clear with no discharge. The ears should be clean with no discharge or smell. There should be no sneezing, watery eyes or discharge from the nose. The skin should look healthy. It should be soft and have a healthy look.
WHEN ARE SPHYNX KITTENS READY TO GO TO A NEW HOME?
Most responsible breeders will not let a kitten go until it is at least 12 weeks old. Some breeders hold them until they are 16 weeks. Each kitten is different and more time might be required for one kitten than another.
WHY BUY FROM A RESPONSIBLE BREEDER?
While no one can guarantee your kitten will never get sick, a responsible breeder’s commitment to healthy, responsible breeding increases your chances of purchasing a healthy kitten. Responsible breeders make sure the mother is healthy and well cared for which increases the health of the kittens. Most breeders feed quality food and make sure kittens are vaccinated before they leave for their new homes.
WHY IS THE BREEDER ASKING ME QUESTIONS?
Responsible breeders are very concerned about the homes their kittens are going to. Breeders put a lot of love, care, and time into raising these kittens and they just want to make sure they have a quality home. If a breeder asks questions, they are not trying to intimidate or embarrass you. The breeder is just trying to determine if the kitten is going to a suitable home.
HOW CAN I TELL IF THE KITTEN IS WELL SOCIALIZED?
When you first go to see the kittens they might be a little “stand-offish.” All kittens are a little hesitant at first. Once you start to hold the kitten it should relax and begin to play. Most young kittens would rather play than be held, but after becoming acquainted with you, the kittens should let you hold them for a short period of time. The personality of the Sphynx kitten is “hold me, love me all the time.”
WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER I BRING MY KITTEN HOME?
Be sure and read the directions provided by your breeder. Transition to a new home can be very stressful for a kitten. Changes in water, food, litter and their general environment can cause problems in healthy kittens. Some might exhibit sneezing, runny nose, and diarrhea.
This does not constitute illness. Bring your kitten in and show him the litter box and bed, then leave him alone. Let him explore and get accustomed to his environment. Introduce him slowly to other pets and give him his space.
If you have purchased from a responsible breeder,
do not hesitate to call with any questions or concerns.
You and your breeder will be happy you did!
If you are interested in one of our kittens, please Contact us.
Kitten reservations are currently being accepted. E-mail and individual pictures can be sent.