- Facts
1. Professional Affiliations:
Birman Cat breeders must be affiliated with the Cat Fancier's Association, the leading feline organization in the US or The International Cat Association.
2. Why Use a Breeder:
Breeders of Birman cats use several biological techniques and try to produce the perfect Birman cat. They may mix indigenous and foreign bloodlines to produce more exotic varieties. One of the advantages of having a Birman cat from a breeder is that its vaccination schedules have already been started.
3. How to Find:
There are many websites devoted to Birman cat breeders. You can find an immense number of contacts there. Birman cat breeders are also listed in magazines and papers pertaining to pets.
4. What to Expect:
Birman cats will require a lot of care and attention. Though these are very docile and calm-tempered cats, they will feel neglected very easily. Getting a Birman cat entails filling out a form along with a commitment to raise the cat as a member of the family.
5. Breeder's Surroundings:
Some breeders raise Birman cats in cages; this must be avoided. You must see to it that the cats are raised underfoot, as a part of the family.
- Newborn Facts
1. Average Number of Newborns Delivered at Birth:
A Birman mother will have up to six kittens in a single litter.
2. Age To Be Sold:
It is not advisable to sell Birman cats till they reach 13 weeks of age. They will take this much amount of time to be weaned and develop completely.
3. What to Look For in a Newborn:
Birman cats should have very soft coats and absolutely white paws. They will have long whiskers and much facial hair. Even as kittens, they will show remarkably blue eyes.
4. Registry:
Birman cats can be registered with the Cat Fanciers' Association or The International Cat Association.
5. AKC Recognized Characteristics:
The AKC does not recognize cats as it is devoted for the breed recognition of dogs.
6. Expense to Purchase Newborn:
Birman kittens can be purchased for $250 to $500 each, depending on their qualities.
7. Dam and Sire Information of your Newborn:
If Birman cats are bred for specific colors and temperaments, it is necessary to know about their parents. You must at least ensure that the parents were CFA or TICA certified and are registered to breed.
- Breeder Concerns
1. Breeder Reputation:
Breeder reputation can be ascertained by the number of affiliations they have. You can ask your local vet and other owners of Birman cats for reputed breeders.
2. Pet Health:
Birman cats can suffer from kidney, heart and liver ailments. These can be caused due to wrong feeding as well as genetic reasons. Keep these cats in clean conditions, as lack of hygiene will cause distress in them.
3. Assurances:
Birman cat breeders must give a health guarantees of at least a month. They must provide papers of the parents and give a certified vet's health certificate on the kitten.
