How to Become a Cat Breeder: A Beginner’s Guide
If you’re thinking of starting a breeding cattery but aren’t sure where to begin, you’re in the right place. Becoming a successful cat breeder requires knowledge, dedication, and financial planning.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the fundamentals of how to start a cattery, the expenses to run a cattery, and key insights into cat breeding for beginners.
Understanding the Responsibilities of a Cat Breeder
Before diving in, it’s essential to understand that cat breeding is about more than just producing cute kittens. A responsible breeder works to preserve and protect the breed, ensuring high standards in health, temperament, and type.
When I first started, I received advice that changed my perspective entirely. A seasoned breeder asked me, “What are the goals of your cattery?” My initial response was about producing beautiful kittens, but she corrected me:
“The goals of every cattery should be Health, Temperament, and Type—in that order.”
This advice shaped the direction of my breeding program, and it should be the foundation of yours too.
1. Health: The Top Priority in Cat Breeding
Every pedigree cat comes with its own set of known health risks. Before starting your cattery, research your chosen breed’s health issues and identify any genetic markers that can be tested for. DNA testing and health screenings are crucial for ensuring you are breeding healthy cats.
- Consider using Wisdom Panel or Optimal Selection for DNA testing.
- Screen for breed-specific conditions such as HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy), PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease), and hip dysplasia.
2. Temperament: Choosing Cats with Great Personalities
The temperament of your breeding cats is often inherited, primarily from the queen. Cats that are social, affectionate, and well-adjusted tend to pass these qualities on to their kittens.
Tips for Selecting Well-Tempered Breeding Cats:
- Choose friendly, confident kittens from reputable breeders.
- Spend time socializing your kittens early on.
- Avoid breeding cats with aggressive or fearful tendencies.
3. Type: Preserving the Breed Standard
In cat breeding, “type” refers to a cat’s physical appearance according to the breed standard. Every breed has specific guidelines for body structure, coat, eye shape, and more.
- Study the breed standard provided by cat registries like CFA, TICA, or FIFe.
- Attend cat shows to see high-quality examples of your breed.
- Select breeding cats that closely match the standard to preserve the integrity of the breed.
The Expenses to Run a Cattery
Many new breeders underestimate the financial commitment involved. How much does it cost to start a cattery? The estimated startup cost is between $10,000 – $20,000, with ongoing monthly expenses averaging $500 – $1,000, depending on the number of cats in your program.
Breakdown of Cat Breeding Costs:
- Acquiring Breeding Cats: $4,000 – $8,000 per cat
- DNA Testing, PCR’s & Health Screening: $300 – $1,500 per cat
- Cattery Setup & Housing: $5,000 – $10,000
- Food & Supplements: $100 – $300 per month
- Vet Care & Emergency Costs: $5,000+ per year
- Cat Registration & Show Fees: $50 – $500 per year
- Marketing/Advertising: $5,000 Per Year
The Commitment: Time, Money, Space, and Patience
Time
Breeding cats is a time-intensive commitment. From socializing kittens to maintaining health records, cleaning, and marketing, you will find yourself devoting several hours a day to your cattery. If you work full-time or have other obligations, consider whether you have at least 20-25 hours per week to dedicate to your cats. Additionally, attending cat shows, engaging with other breeders, and continuous learning will require even more time.
Money
The financial aspect of cat breeding is often underestimated. Not only do you have the initial investment in high-quality breeding cats, but you will also have ongoing costs such as vet care, food, supplies, cattery maintenance, and registration fees. Emergency expenses can also arise, and it’s essential to have a financial buffer for unexpected health issues or complications.
Space
Your cattery setup is crucial for the well-being of your cats. Each breeder will have different spatial requirements depending on the number of cats they keep, but at a minimum, you will need:
- Separate housing for your males and females
- A dedicated birthing area
- A safe and clean quarantine space for new arrivals and/or sickies
- Room for exercise and play If you are using your home, ensure that your breeding operation does not interfere with your daily living space, as cats need a stress-free environment.
Patience
Patience is a critical trait for any breeder. Cats do not always breed on schedule, kittens may require extra care, and unexpected health issues may arise. Breeding is not an overnight success; it may take years before you establish a strong breeding program. There will be learning curves, setbacks, and tough decisions to make—so perseverance is key
Final Thoughts: Is Cat Breeding Right for You?
Becoming a cat breeder is a rewarding but challenging journey. It requires time, money, patience, and a deep love for the breed. If you’re passionate about preserving and improving a breed, breeding cats can be a fulfilling path.
However, if you’re hesitant about the financial and time commitments, consider starting as a foster parent or show exhibitor before diving into breeding.
If you’re ready to learn more, sign up for our Complete Guide to Breeding Pedigree Cats and start your journey as a responsible breeder today!
How Much Do you Know About Breeding Pedigree Cats?
Take this Quiz and Find out [And Get a Special Discount on one of our Training Courses]
The Following quiz consists of 20 questions that are pulled at random from our final exam on the Complete Guide to Breeding Pedigree Cats training course. It’s all basic knowledge every breeder should have in their knowledge bank.
Take the short quiz and see how you score. GOOD LUCK! 😀
Thank you for this information. I look forward to learning more and setting up my first cattery.