Finding A Suitable Stud Cat

When you start looking for a stud cat to mate with your female, the first place you should go is to the breeder of your own cat, who will able to recommend a genetically compatible sire. It is not a good idea to mate cats together that are very closely related, such as mother and son or father and daughter as there may by deformities in the genes. Alternatively you can contact the breed club who should be able to give you an opinion of a reputable stud owner.

Try not to take your first queen (female cat) too far away for her first mating, as this is a new experience for her and she will be very confused; the stress may even cause her to come off call.

When you think you have found a suitable stud cat, visit the premises. Your cat will be staying there for up to a week, and it is best to make sure you are happy with the cat, the owner and the attention and accommodation offered to your female cat. If you are unsure, then try somewhere else. Don't be swayed by impressive rosettes advertising the cats wins; it is not always the Grand Champion that sires the healthiest kittens, nor his owner who will give your cat the best attention during her stay. Don't be impressed by a stud owner that has too many studs either; stud cats are usually housed in outside runs, if there are several cats available, can you be sure they are receiving the care they need, or if you cat will receive the same?

If you are happy with everything, and wish to proceed with mating, the stud owner will ask you questions. And will want to see some documents:

	Pedigree certificate
	Registration document
	Inoculation certificate
	FeLV/FIV negative certificates
	Pet name of cat
	Favourite diets

A stud owner will want to know the parentage of the cat they accept to stud; that the cat is registered in the owner's name, and the breeder has registered it to allow for breeding. The inoculation and FeLV/FIV neg certificates will assure the stud owner that risks of infections to their cat are minimal.

The stud owner will also show their certificates to you. You cat's preferred diet and use of its pet name will help make it settle in a bit more quickly.