Kitten/Cat Checklist

Before contacting or visiting the seller please make sure you have printed and read this checklist fully. Do NOT buy a cat or kitten from the seller unless you are happy that they follow all the advice on the list.

1. Do your research first

   Getting a new cat or kitten is a massive commitment, so make sure you have researched the breed fully and have the time and commitment necessary to care for the cat. You can read our detailed Information guide about cats for potential new cat owners. Also read our Cat breed information profile.

2. Confirm that the seller is genuine

   You should verify this by arranging to visit the cat or kitten at the seller's home, if they make excuses or try to ask for money or a deposit without seeing the cat, or if the seller attempts to deliver the kittens or meet you at any other location than their own home, then please do not agree to this. NEVER pay for a cat or send money as a deposit without visiting and seeing the cat at its home beforehand. Please read our article on avoiding potential scams. If you are unsure that the seller is genuine, please report them to us.

3. Is the Kitten over 8 Weeks of age?

   Kittens must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned before they can leave their mothers. Most responsible sellers will keep their kittens longer than this before they let them go to new homes. Read further information on the minimum age kittens should be before leaving their mothers.

4. Check the Health of the kitten or cat

   It can be difficult for the average person to check if a cat or kitten is healthy or not, so if you decide to adopt or buy the kitten, make sure that the seller agrees that you can return them within 48 hours for a full refund after taking the cat or kitten to a Vet of your choice for a health check. The seller should be willing to let you do this. If the kitten has already been health checked by their own vet, make sure you get evidence for this in the form of vet records and phone their vet to confirm this.

5. Can the kittens be viewed with their Mother?

   The seller should ALWAYS let you see the kittens with their mother, and in certain circumstances should let you see the kittens father. Not being able to see the kittens mother is a sign the kittens have not been bred by the seller. Pets4Homes do not allow the third party sale of kittens. All litters of kittens advertised, MUST have been bred by the seller.

6. Is the kitten or cat up to date with their vaccinations?

   Kittens should receive 2 vaccinations, the first at around 8 weeks of age and the second, two to three weeks later. Kittens should not be allowed outside until 7 days after their second injection. Cats should also receive a yearly vaccination booster. Ask the breeder which vaccinations they have had and if not, why not. If the seller has not started the kittens vaccinations, it will be your responsibility to make sure you arrange both vaccinations 7 days before letting your kitten go outside (see more info below).

7. Have the kittens been treated for worms and fleas?

   Kittens should really be wormed at around 2 weeks of age, and again at around 5 weeks of age, and finally just before they leave the seller/breeder at 8 to 12 weeks of age.

8. Is the cat/kitten registered with the GCCF, TICA or FIFe?

   If they are, then check to make sure you are given the correct documents BEFORE you decide to take the cat home. It may also be worth phoning the organisation to check the information provided is correct.

Vaccination Information

All cats should be vaccinated and have their vaccinations kept up-to-date, this is part of being a responsible cat owner and will be your responsibility.

Kittens should receive 2 vaccinations, the first at around 8 weeks of age and the second, two to three weeks later. Kittens should not be allowed outside until 7 days after their second injection. Cats require booster vaccinations occasionally and should be discussed with your local Vet. 

If the seller has not vaccinated their cat/kitten, then it will be your responsibility to make sure this is done straight away. 

Many responsible cat breeders will keep their kittens longer, and make sure they have been fully vaccinated before they let them go to new homes.

If the seller has said the cat/kitten is vaccinated, please make sure you receive the cats vaccination record paperwork. 

Other useful resources

Please read visit our Pet Advice section for further information before buying a cat or kitten. Here are a few very useful articles you should read first:

1. Choosing a pedigree kitten
2. Acquiring a new cat or kitten