Cat breeder needing advice

OlliesDad

sheramber wrote: »

If you do breed again it would be better not to show potential owners any kittens other than those that are available for them to purchase.

Then there is no prospect of the people wanting them.

I have not bought a kitten but have bought pups and have only ever seen those that were available, not any who were already spoken for.

That would not have made a difference in this case. The last show boy was available when the troublesome people came - they just didn't choose him quick enough as the next family took him instead.

rustyboy21

They just seem like selfish spoilt people who want everything their own way and think bullying is the only way to get ahead.


I would give them their money back and tell them to do one, you will see them in court, which you would win anyway with the information you have.


Don't give in and let them have their own way.

giantmutantbroccoli

OP I have to say, you sound like a really nice person and a great breeder who cares about your cats
Given that they're unlikely to be able to damage your reputation, I would just refund their deposit and tell them that you no longer wish to deal with them. Keep records of all of their emails, any messages they send to you and anything they say over the phone, just in case. If you're a member of some breeding association - is there a cat equivalent of the Kennel Club? - they might be a good place to go for advice.

Personally, I think it sounds like they plan to breed them. Why else would they switch from wanting on female cat, to a show quality male and a female? There's a world of difference between getting one cat, and getting two cats of opposite sexes! Did they ever offer to take two boy cats, or two girl cats?

In my experience with breeding, buying or selling animals, the people who "want what they want" and respond angrily when they don't immediately get it are people to steer well clear of - often they have some sort of money-making scheme involved in the purchase of your animal (could be planning to breed, could be planning to sell the animal on), and either way I get the impression that they're more interested in their rights as a consumer than they are in the welfare of the animal.

pulliptears

Lilyput22 wrote: »

I think it's important to show buyers the kittens at play and interacting with one another. I'm not a fan of being bought kittens to view from another room as I want to see them with their mom and see how they live.

This exactly. As I said upthread I'm a dog person, but over the years I've viewed many pups and I'd be exceptionally suspicious of a breeder who just bought out the ones for sale. You do want to see all the litter (how do you know if there is a runt if you are only seeing a select few?) You need to see them interact with their littermates and their parents.

My last pup I bought from an extremely chaotic kitchen before Christmas. He was bounding around with all his brothers and sisters and both parents and the entire scene was utter madness. It showed me though that these dogs had indeed been home raised (the mess was evidence enough that they hadn't just been brought in for a viewing), they loved the kids in the family, they were with both of their parents . As a result I got a pretty well rounded (if slightly mad) Scottie dog.

I'd advise anyone to be wary of a seller who just brings in one or two animals for a viewing. Far too many are kept in sheds at the end of the garden with little or no socialisation.

Lilyput, thank you for your explanation, I am now Tonkinese educated. Try not to lose sleep over this, look at it as a close escape for your beautiful kitten.

(this thread needs pictures I add!!)

Becka38940

I have loved reading this thread and think you sound like a wonderful thoughtful breeder!

These people have no right to make you worry this way and it's because of bad behaviour like this so many nice people stop and you get back alley breeders!

Completely agree with the other responses about refunding the deposit. In fact I would invite them to contact a solicitor if they are not happy as you should not be subject to blackmail and bullying.

Lilyput22

I can't add pictures as I had to sign up new because could not remember my old log in!

My website has loads pictures.

Check out my user name but google it minus the number and add Tonkinese. Should come up.


Thanks so much everyone. I feel much better tonight.

pulliptears

Ohhh THE CUTE!!!!
(I'd keep them all!)

sheramber

OlliesDad wrote: »

That would not have made a difference in this case. The last show boy was available when the troublesome people came - they just didn't choose him quick enough as the next family took him instead.

I read it as the last show boy was already allocated to the people who wanted a boy so not technically available.

Lilyput22

I just wanted to thank everyone. We wrote a letter to accompany their returned deposit which basically stated that we considered the matter closed.

They have paid the cheque in, so I guess they have accepted it and have not pursued further action.

Thank you so much, it was a very worrying time for me. My kittens are now 13 weeks old and neutered. They will be off to their new homes next week.