Key Considerations Before Selling Kittens with Breeding Rights

There are so many angles to explore when deciding whether to sell a kitten with breeding rights. It’s not just about the money (though that’s a perk!); it’s about the legacy of your cattery and the well-being of your lines. Here’s what I always think about before signing on the dotted line.

This podcast episode will cover some of the concerns you can contemplate about before making that final decision.

Are the Kitten’s Parents Healthy?

First things first: the parents need to be in tip-top shape. I’m talking DNA-tested, clear of genetic disorders, and screened for any breed-specific health issues. Age matters too—those parents should be mature enough to show they’re a shining example of a healthy adult cat. I’ve learned the hard way that skipping these checks can lead to heartache down the road, so I don’t mess around here.

Quick Checklist for Parents:

DNA tests: Done ✅
Breed-specific screenings: Cleared ✅
Age: Old enough to prove their health ✅

What About the Offspring?

Most kittens present as “healthy”. it can take 1 year, and sometimes up to 5 years for underlying issues to present. Keeping records of your kittens after they go to their new homes is an essential part of knowing your lines.

Kittens might look healthy at eight weeks old, but here’s the kicker—some issues don’t show up until they’re a year old, or even as late as five! That’s why I keep meticulous records of every kitten I’ve placed. Staying in touch with their new families helps me track how my lines are holding up over time. It’s like building a family tree, but with more purrs and fewer awkward reunions.

Pro tip: If you’re not already doing this, start now! It’s a game-changer for understanding your cattery’s strengths.

How’s the Temperament of the Parents?

Temperament is EVERYTHING. I mean it—right after health, it’s my top priority. We all want a kitty that’s a total sweetheart, tolerant of chaos, and maybe even a purring machine. I’ve had cats that were gorgeous but total grumps, and let me tell you, that’s not what I want my cattery known for. When I’m considering breeding rights, I make sure the parents are the kind of cats I’d want to cuddle with all day.

Why it matters:

• Sweet cats = happy homes
• Tolerant temperaments = fewer returns or complaints
• Purr boxes = bonus points!

Does Your Contract Allow This?

If the parents of the kitten aren’t from your cattery, it’s time to review the contracts from their breeders. I’ve been caught off guard by this one—some breeders restrict selling kittens with breeding rights entirely, while others might limit it to second-generation offspring. Double-check the fine print!

If you’re unsure how to navigate this, I’ve got a whole episode breaking down the cat breeder contract—it’s saved me from a few headaches.

Do You Really Know Your Buyer?

This one’s huge. Selling a kitten with breeding rights isn’t like handing off a pet—it’s a partnership. I’ve learned to take my time getting to know the buyer. Are our cattery goals aligned? Do we share the same values about health and care? If there’s a big mismatch, trust me, it’ll come back to bite you later. Be patient, chat it out, and make sure you’re on the same page before committing.

Here’s my go-to process:

• Share my own standards and see if they vibe with them..
• Have a casual phone call or meet-up.
• Ask about their cattery setup and goals.

Wrapping It Up

Selling kittens with breeding rights is a journey, not a snap decision. From checking the health of the parents and offspring to vetting your buyer, every step matters. I’ve found that taking it slow and trusting my gut has led to the best outcomes—for me, my kittens, and my cattery’s reputation. What’s your experience been like? I’d love to hear your stories!

For more tips on running a cattery like a pro, check out these related posts:

• Marketing Your Cattery: Tips That Actually Work
• Pricing Your Kittens for Profit and Fairness