Price is going to be an important consideration for most buyers; however, in the long run when purchasing a pedigreed cat, it should not be at the top or even near the top of your list of priorities. What is the point of spending a few hundred dollars less initially on an animal that does not come with a written health guarantee or health records, pedigree and registration papers?
Unfortunately, what can happen is that the animal is NOT healthy, and the new owner then may end up spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on unanticipated veterinary bills, and then may still lose the animal (and possibly now have other sick felines too). Without a written health guarantee, there is little recourse for the now heartbroken (and financially broken) consumer. All too often, we also hear about people who end up never being able to get the papers promised to them by the breeder. When this happens, the actual reason is usually that there never were any papers, and, without those papers, there is no way to prove that you have, in fact, actually purchased a purebred, pedigreed kitten or cat, from registered parents.
Beware of Bargains
When a pedigreed kitten or cat is advertised at a very low price, you can be sure that corners have been cut - perhaps the animals did not receive the high quality scientifically formulated foods and supplements; perhaps the breeder did not get all the necessary vet visits done and/or maintain the proper registration, pedigree and health records; their facilities may not be large, clean and well-maintained; the cats may not get the proper amount of handling and socializing within the home. All these things will contribute greatly towards how well adjusted, healthy and affectionate your new kitten or cat will be, and thus to your overall satisfaction with your purchase and your new companion.
Holly D.Webber is the founder/owner of HDW Enterprises and the in-home Bengal cattery Foothill Felines Bengals, located in Sacramento, CA. She has been breeding Bengals for 6 years, and is also a breeder member of The International Cat Association, and The International Bengal Cat Society. In addition, Ms. Webber is the U.S. Foreign Correspondent for "PETWORLD" Magazine, published bi-monthly in Malaysia.