Buying a kitten

Our family have decided we are going to buy a kitten.Some people say it is better to buy it from a trusted breeder instead of a rescue centre. But my friend told me there are thousands of cats that need new homes that are in rescue centres. Should we call one of them? Or is it better to buy one from a cat breeder?

I had to make this same choice too. But it depends upon what type of cat you are looking for. Often cats from rescue centres work out fine in a home, especially if you go for a kitten, but sometimes due to past mistreatment, they can come with habits and fears that can be difficult to change. In the end, we decided to go with a kitten from a breeder and she is gorgeous and one of the family now. :)

Good luck!

If you intend to breed from your cat, then you will definitely want to choose a pedigree or pure-bred cat

I think that if you need a cat with a reliable temperament, particularly if they are going to be around very young children, and will tolerate being 'cuddled' quite roughly, then you would probably be better off with a cat whose temperament is predictable as it is a pure-bred breed with known 'personality traits'.

Try these articles:

What To Consider Before Buying A New Cat or Kitten

Which Is Best For You - A Male or Female Cat?

Pedigree or Mixed Breed?

Yes, I think there is much to consider when deciding what type of cat or kitten you are going to get if the cat is going to be around young children.

Those which are true to breed and from a gentle kindly breed may be the best choice, but may cost the most.

Often kittens or cats who scratch children are not trying to hurt the child, but simply responding to being hurt by the child (albeit unintentionally) themselves.

Personally, I think an older cat who is used to being around children is a much better fit with children, so long as the cat is accustomed to being with kids.

Laurie

If you do not want a particular breed, or even if you do, please go to the shelter. Millions are cremeated or gased, where I live. I wanted a Siamese, and on a local TV show the director of the shelter was showing 3 half Siamese kittens, when we visited the shelter, there were actually 4 in the litter. I pick the female not on TV, but was talked out of it as she was not very active, and they suspected she might not be well. She has the sweetest face, that I regret not getting her. Both males looked all Siamese. I got one and the other female, who is very sweet and loving. We wish we had taken all 4, as if no one else claimed them, they were "disposed of" in a few days. All kinds, young and old can be found at the shelter, just be patient. One option is let the cat choose you. Expose yourself to several, and see who "wants" you. One of our cats tried to climb under my husbands shirt sleeve! We had her for about 12 years.
Please, Please neuter your cats. It is better for all.