In today’s digital age, the internet has made it easier than ever to find and purchase pets, including kittens. However, with this convenience comes the risk of encountering scammers who prey on unsuspecting buyers. To ensure a smooth and ethical transaction, it’s essential to know how to spot scams and find reputable breeders when searching for a new feline companion.

Identifying Red Flags

1. Unrealistically Low Prices

  • If a kitten’s price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often lure buyers in with exceptionally low prices to entice them into making a hasty decision without proper research. Seeing prices under $1000 for a purebred kitten is a huge red flag.

2. Lack of Health Information:

  • Reputable breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their kittens and provide detailed information about vaccinations, deworming, and any health screenings performed. Be wary of sellers who are vague or evasive about the kitten’s health history.

3. Minimal Personal Interaction:

  • Scammers may avoid phone calls or in-person meetings, preferring to communicate solely through email or text messages. A lack of personal interaction and reluctance to provide additional photos or videos of the kitten can indicate fraudulent activity. DO NOT send any money without first live videochatting with the seller to see they in fact have the kitten.

4. Requests for Wire Transfers or Unusual Payment Methods:

  • Beware of sellers who insist on payment via wire transfer, money order, or cryptocurrency. Reputable breeders typically accept secure payment methods, such as PayPal or credit cards, and provide invoices or contracts for transparency.
  • *Note: Some scammers WILL push you to sign a contact immediately, saying that it protects you and your purchase. Remember, a contract with a fake person will not help you before you have the kitten.

5. Multiple Readily Available Kittens

  • Good breeders may have waiting lists or limited availability because they prioritize quality over quantity, striving to produce healthy, well-socialized kittens that meet breed standards. While it may require patience to acquire a kitten from a reputable breeder, the wait is often worth it for the assurance of bringing home a happy and healthy kitten.
  • A “buy it now” button on a breeder’s website or listing could raise concerns as it suggests a transactional approach to selling kittens, rather than a careful consideration of the buyer’s suitability and the welfare of the cats. Reputable breeders prioritize responsible placement and take time to screen potential buyers, ensuring their kittens are placed in suitable homes. This quick sales approach may indicate a lack of transparency and commitment to ethical breeding practices.

Finding Reputable Breeders

1. Research Breed Standards:

  • Familiarize yourself with the characteristics and standards of the breed you’re interested in. Reputable breeders adhere to these standards and strive to produce healthy, well-socialized kittens that conform to the breed’s ideal traits.

2. Seek Recommendations:

  • Ask for recommendations from trusted sources, such as veterinarians, cat associations, or fellow cat enthusiasts. Personal referrals can help you find breeders with a proven track record of ethical breeding practices.
  • Devon Rex Breed Club is an excellent resource in finding a reputable Devon Rex breeder, as the registered members agree to abide by the Constitution and By-Laws of the DRBC and the CFA Code of Ethics.
  • Nice and Crazy Devon People is also an excellent resource to talk to other Devon lovers and ask if a breeder you are looking at is legit or a scam.

3. Visit Credible Websites:

  • Look for breeders’ websites that provide detailed information about their breeding program, including health testing, socialization practices, and available kittens. Reputable breeders often showcase photos of their cats and facilities to give buyers insight into their operations. They also show their cats participating in cat shows, and list the registered names of the cats on their site.

4. Verify Credentials:

  • Check if the breeder is affiliated with reputable cat associations, such as The International Cat Association (TICA) or the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). Membership in these organizations indicates a commitment to ethical breeding standards and responsible cat care. Ask your breeder to see the pedigree of the kitten you are purchasing.

5. Ask About Pedigrees:

  • Asking to see a cat’s pedigree is essential when researching because it provides valuable information about the cat’s lineage, ancestry, and genetic health. A pedigree documents multiple generations of a cat’s ancestors, including their titles and awards. By reviewing a cat’s pedigree, potential buyers can assess the quality of the breeding program, the presence of desirable traits, and any potential health issues that may be hereditary. Additionally, pedigrees help ensure that the cat is a genuine representative of its breed and has been bred responsibly by reputable breeders who prioritize maintaining breed standards and genetic diversity. MAKE SURE IT IS A REAL ASSOCIAITION’S PEDIGREE (CFA/ TICA) not a software pedigree.
  • Breeders who refuse to discuss pedigrees raise red flags due to their lack of transparency and potentially unethical breeding practices. Pedigrees provide crucial information about a cat’s lineage, health, and adherence to breed standards. When breeders withhold pedigree information, buyers are unable to assess potential health risks or verify the cat’s background. This reluctance may indicate substandard breeding practices aimed at maximizing profit rather than prioritizing the well-being of the cats. Additionally, it raises concerns that the breeder may not have proper documentation or papers for the cats they are selling, which could lead to a scam or misrepresentation of the cat’s lineage. Consequently, potential buyers should be cautious when dealing with breeders who avoid discussing pedigrees, as it may signal underlying concerns about the integrity of the breeding program.

6. Arrange a Visit (In-person or Remote):

  • If possible, schedule a visit to the breeder’s facility to meet the kittens and observe their living conditions. A reputable breeder will be open and transparent about their breeding practices. However, it is common practice for breeders to not allow visitors into their homes; with visitors come germs and diseases that can be transferred to cats and kittens. A safer alternative for the kittens and the breeder’s family is to offer remote visits. Facetime or other digital alternatives can be an excellent option to see your kittens interact with their siblings, and a good opportunity for you to see that the person you are talking to does in fact own the kitten you are interested in. Do not accept only video clips, as these can be easily stolen.

7. Ask for Reviews from Previous Buyers

  • When contacting breeders, it’s entirely reasonable to ask for reviews or testimonials from previous buyers. Politely inquire if the breeder can provide references or put you in touch with individuals who have purchased kittens from them in the past. A reputable breeder will gladly share feedback from satisfied customers to help build trust and confidence in their breeding program. When requesting reviews, be specific about the aspects you’re interested in, such as the health and temperament of the kittens, the breeder’s communication and professionalism, and the overall experience of purchasing from them. By gathering insights from previous buyers, you can gain valuable firsthand perspectives and make a more informed decision when choosing a breeder for your new furry friend.

While the internet offers a convenient platform for finding kittens, it’s essential to exercise caution and diligence to avoid falling victim to online scams. By being vigilant and following these guidelines, prospective buyers can navigate the online marketplace safely and find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their kittens. Remember, patience and thorough research are key to bringing home a happy and healthy feline companion.