FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS...
Long or Short Hair?
Long
haired cats can be very attractive but they need daily grooming to keep
their coat tangle free and in good condition. You must be prepared to brush
a long haired cat DAILY starting from kittenhood to get him/her used to
the routine. Otherwise be prepared for the added expense of taking your
cat to the vet's office to be sedated or possibly anesthetised to have the
mats shaved off.
One Kitten
or Two?
One Kitten or Two? If you work or are out of the house for most of the
day and the kitten will be alone during that time, it's preferable to have
two kittens to keep each other company. Two are no more trouble than one,
but they're twice the fun!
Where to Buy?
You can obtain a kitten/cat from a variety of sources.
Whatever you do DON'T buy from a dealer who has brought in kittens from
several different sources. They will probably have been taken away from
their mother at a very early age. Some may have traveled long distances
before reaching the pet store in a state of fear and confusion. These factors
increase the risk of disease and stress induced illness. This type of animal
neglect should not be supported. If you decide to buy a purebred kitten,
then UNDISPUTABLY the best source would be a reputable breeder. These can
be found by visiting cat shows, CFA, TICA, breed clubs, veterinarians,
newspapers, ads in cat magazines and on the internet. Always check several
sources, never buy on impulse.
What to Look For?
Choose a kitten that is active, alert and clean. Check for signs of diarrhea
under the tail and on the back legs. There should be NO discharge from
the eyes or nose. The ears should be clean, the gums should be a healthy
pink.
Healthy kittens are curious and will show interest in strangers. Take notice
of how they interact with their surroundings and other cats/kittens in
the house. Choose a kitten that is playful without being too aggressive.
You should also take notice of the kittens mother. This is away to asses
the temperament and general health of the kittens. Remember that the queen
will have lost some of her condition due to raising her litter.
NEVER bring a kitten home before it is 12 weeks old! Be suspecious of someone
selling a kitten too young. Some breeders keep their kittens until they
are 16 weeks old.
huilani@thinline.com
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Hui Lani