Cattery-Golden-Summit

FAQ's

Choosing the perfect feline companion is an important decision, and we’re delighted that you’re considering the British Shorthair breed. Allow us to paint a picture of their captivating personality traits that make them a truly exceptional choice for cat lovers.

First and foremost, British Shorthairs are known for their gentle and calm nature. They have a wonderfully laid-back demeanor that exudes a sense of tranquility. This makes them excellent companions for individuals and families alike, as they tend to be affectionate without being overly demanding. Their serene presence can provide a soothing and comforting atmosphere in any home.

These cats also possess an inherent sense of independence and self-assurance. They are content in their own company and are not overly clingy, making them suitable for those who appreciate a cat that respects personal space. However, British Shorthairs are also known to be devoted and loyal to their human companions. They form strong bonds and enjoy spending quality time with their loved ones, whether it’s curling up on the couch for a snuggle or simply being in the same room, offering quiet companionship.

One cannot overlook the British Shorthair’s iconic round face and expressive eyes, which truly reflect their charming personality. Their sweet and endearing facial features often give the impression of a perpetual smile, making them utterly irresistible. Their gentle expressions and soft, loving eyes have a way of melting hearts and bringing joy to the lives of their owners.

Another remarkable feature of the British Shorthair breed is their adaptability. They tend to adjust well to different living environments, making them an excellent choice for both apartments and larger homes. Additionally, their easygoing nature allows them to get along well with other pets, including dogs, creating harmonious relationships within multi-pet households.

British Shorthairs are also known for their intelligence and curious nature. They enjoy interactive play and mental stimulation, making them great companions for those who appreciate engaging with their pets. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and even simple hide-and-seek activities can provide them with mental enrichment and keep their sharp minds entertained.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning the British Shorthair’s distinctive appearance. With their plush, dense coats, round faces, and sturdy build, they possess an undeniable charm that sets them apart. Their wide range of colors and patterns, including the stunning black golden chinchilla, and black gold point variations, make them a visual delight and a source of admiration.

At Cattery Golden Summit, we strive to keep you informed about the availability of our kittens. We use the following statuses to provide clarity and transparency throughout the adoption process:

1. **Available**: Kittens marked as “Available” are ready and eagerly waiting to find their forever homes. They are open for adoption and can be reserved by interested individuals.

2. **Hold**: Occasionally, we may place a temporary “Hold” on a kitten. This status indicates that someone has expressed interest in the kitten, and we are awaiting further arrangements, such as a virtual visit or additional discussions. Holds are typically short-term and may change to “Reserved” or “Available.”

3. **Reserved**: When a kitten is marked as “Reserved,” it means that a prospective owner has completed the necessary adoption process and put down a deposit. The kitten is no longer available for adoption and is awaiting final arrangements, such as vaccination completion or the agreed-upon adoption date.

4. **Sold**: A kitten marked as “Sold” has been successfully adopted and is preparing to join its new loving family. Once a kitten is sold, they are no longer available for adoption.

5. **Evaluation**: Occasionally, we may mark a kitten as “Evaluation.” This status indicates that we are assessing the kitten’s potential as a future breeding or show cat. While the kitten is not currently available for adoption, we may consider making them available later if they do not meet our breeding/show standards.

6. **Stay in Cattery**: “Stay in Cattery” is a status reserved for kittens that will remain with us to contribute to our breeding program or show endeavors. These kittens are not available for adoption and will continue to receive the utmost care and attention.

We prioritize the health and well-being of our kittens by providing them with comprehensive veterinary care and regular health screenings. Here’s an overview of the measures we take to ensure the optimal health of our adorable feline friends:

– **Parent Screening**: We understand the importance of starting with healthy parents. Therefore, our breeding cats undergo thorough testing and screening for common feline and breed health conditions. We specifically test for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), Feline Leukemia Virus (FLeLv), and Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). By ensuring the health of the parents, we can greatly reduce the risk of passing on these conditions to the kittens. We also, utilize Wisdom Panel genetic testing. This advanced screening method allows us to assess our kittens for more than 40 genetic diseases, providing valuable insights into their overall health and well-being.

– **Regular Health Exams**: Our kittens receive regular health examinations by a licensed veterinarian. These exams help us monitor their growth, development, and overall health. Any potential issues or concerns can be addressed promptly, ensuring that our kittens receive the appropriate care they need.

– **Deworming**: We take proactive measures to protect our kittens from common intestinal parasites. Deworming treatments are administered as recommended by our veterinarian, ensuring that our kittens grow up healthy and parasite-free.

– **Vaccinations**: To safeguard our kittens against preventable diseases, our kittens receive age-appropriate vaccinations, including distemper and rabies vaccines, to provide them with the necessary immunity against these illnesses.

– **Spaying/Neutering**: Depending on their age and weight, we also offer spaying or neutering services for our kittens..

By adhering to these rigorous health protocols and providing top-notch veterinary care, we strive to ensure that our kittens are healthy, happy, and ready to embark on a lifetime of companionship with their new families.

At [Your Cattery Name], we believe that a nutritious and balanced diet is essential for the healthy growth and development of our kittens. We are committed to providing them with high-quality food that meets their specific nutritional needs. Here’s an overview of our feeding practices:

– **Early stages and nursing**: During the crucial early stages of their lives, when our kittens are approximately one month of age, we provide them with Royal Canin dry and wet Mother and Babycat food. This specially formulated food is designed to support the unique nutritional requirements of lactating mothers and their growing kittens. Mothers are started on this formula one month prior to kitten’s arrival. It provides the necessary nutrients, energy, and essential building blocks for healthy development.

– **Transitioning**: As our kittens reach approximately 4 months of age, we gradually transition them to Royal Canin Kitten food, dry and wet. This food is specifically formulated to cater to the nutritional needs of growing kittens. It provides a balanced mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to support their development, immune system, and overall well-being.

We choose Royal Canin as our preferred brand due to its reputation for producing high-quality pet food that is backed by scientific research and tailored to meet the specific nutritional needs of cats at different life stages.

Absolutely! We understand the importance of providing our kittens with the necessary training to develop good litter box habits and encourage appropriate scratching behavior. Here’s what you can expect regarding litter box and scratching post training for our kittens:

– **Litter Box Training**: We start litter box training with our kittens at an early age. By introducing them to a clean and easily accessible litter box, we help them develop the instinctual understanding of using it for their toileting needs. We use high-quality, kitten-safe litter and ensure that the litter boxes are cleaned and maintained regularly. This consistent training approach sets a strong foundation for our kittens to continue their litter box habits in their new homes.

– **Scratching Post Training**: Kittens have a natural instinct to scratch and sharpen their claws. To protect furniture and promote healthy scratching behavior, we introduce our kittens to scratching posts from a young age. By providing them with sturdy and appropriate scratching surfaces, we encourage them to redirect their scratching behavior away from furniture and onto the designated posts. This early exposure and positive reinforcement help kittens develop healthy scratching habits.

We believe that early training and positive reinforcement are key to ensuring that our kittens are prepared for life in their new homes. However, it’s important to note that continued reinforcement and encouragement from their adoptive families are essential in maintaining these behaviors.

At our cattery, we prioritize the well-being and development of our precious kittens. We understand that the excitement of bringing home a new furry family member can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to ensure that the kittens are ready for the transition. We believe that socialization plays a vital role in their overall happiness and adjustment to their new environment.

Therefore, we recommend a minimum age of 12 weeks before bringing your kitten home. By this time, they have reached an important milestone in their development, both physically and emotionally. During these first few weeks, kittens learn crucial social skills from their mother and littermates. They also start to explore the world around them, gaining confidence and independence.

By waiting until at least 12 weeks, we can ensure that your kitten has received the necessary nurturing and socialization from their mother and siblings. This period allows them to develop a strong foundation for healthy interactions with humans and other animals. Socialization is crucial for their future well-being, as it helps prevent behavioral problems and promotes a happy, well-adjusted cat.

While 12 weeks is the minimum age we recommend, we believe that 14 weeks is even more optimal. By this time, the kittens have had additional time to learn from their mother and develop essential social skills. They are more self-assured and better equipped to handle new experiences and environments. This extra period of socialization significantly contributes to their overall development and helps them become confident, friendly companions.

At our cattery, we take pride in providing our kittens with a nurturing and social environment where they can grow and thrive. We ensure that they receive the love, care, and socialization they need before joining their new families. By waiting until the appropriate age, you can help set the stage for a lifetime of happiness and companionship with your new kitten.

British Shorthair cats have a low-maintenance grooming routine compared to some other breeds, thanks to their dense and plush coats. However, a little regular grooming can go a long way in keeping them looking their best and maintaining their overall health. Let’s delve into the grooming needs of British Shorthair cats, including essential eye care.

Coat Care:
One of the distinctive features of British Shorthairs is their dense and plush coat, which requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing with a soft bristle brush or a comb is generally sufficient to keep their coat in good condition. This helps to remove loose hairs, prevent matting, and distribute natural oils along the fur for a healthy shine. During the shedding seasons, more frequent brushing may be necessary to manage the increased hair loss.

Bathing is typically not needed unless your British Shorthair gets particularly dirty or encounters a specific situation that requires a bath. Their dense coat is excellent at repelling dirt and staying relatively clean on its own. However, if bathing becomes necessary, use a gentle cat-specific shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing to avoid leaving any residue on their fur.

Nail Trimming:
Regular nail trimming is essential for British Shorthairs to keep their claws in check. Trimming their nails every couple of weeks helps prevent them from becoming too long, which can lead to discomfort or accidental scratching. Use cat-specific nail clippers and take care not to cut into the quick, which is the sensitive part of the nail. If you’re not comfortable with nail trimming, a professional groomer or veterinarian can assist you.

Dental Care:
Dental hygiene is crucial for the overall health of your British Shorthair. Regular brushing of their teeth, ideally daily or at least a few times a week, can help prevent dental issues such as plaque buildup and gum disease. Use a cat-friendly toothbrush and specially formulated toothpaste designed for feline oral care. Additionally, providing dental treats or toys that promote chewing can help maintain their dental health.

Eye Care:
British Shorthairs are known for their captivating eyes, and proper eye care is essential for their well-being. Due to their facial structure, they may be prone to tear staining or debris accumulation around the eyes. Gently wiping the area around the eyes with a damp, soft cloth or a specifically formulated eye cleaning solution can help keep their eyes clean and free from any discharge. If you notice excessive tearing or any signs of eye irritation, it’s advisable to consult with a veterinarian for further evaluation.

At our cattery, we prioritize providing a stimulating and enriching environment for our cats and kittens. We believe that a well-rounded enrichment program helps promote their physical and mental well-being. Here are some of the enrichment activities we provide:

1. Toys: We offer a variety of interactive toys designed to engage and entertain our cats and kittens. From puzzle toys that challenge their problem-solving skills to feather wands that encourage play and exercise, our selection of toys is carefully chosen to provide both mental and physical stimulation.

2. Bird Feeders: We have strategically placed bird feeders outside our home, visible from designated areas where our cats and kittens can observe them. This allows them to indulge in their natural instinct to watch and observe birds, providing entertainment and mental stimulation.

3. Cat TV: We have dedicated areas equipped with cat-friendly screens that display videos specifically designed for feline viewing. These videos feature nature scenes, birds, and other wildlife that captivate their attention and provide a virtual window to the outside world.

4. Climbing and Scratching Structures: We have installed a variety of climbing trees, scratching posts, and platforms that allow our cats and kittens to engage in natural behaviors such as climbing, scratching, and perching. These structures provide physical exercise and help satisfy their instinctual needs.

5. Interactive Playtime: We spend quality time engaging in interactive play sessions with our cats and kittens. This includes using interactive toys, playing with feather wands, and engaging them in gentle physical activities that promote exercise and bonding.

6. Environmental Enrichment: We strive to create an enriched living environment within our cattery. This includes providing hiding spots, cozy beds, and comfortable resting areas to cater to their need for security and relaxation. We also rotate toys and rearrange the environment periodically to keep things fresh and intriguing.

Absolutely! We prioritize the health and well-being of our kittens and strive to provide a positive and transparent adoption experience. We understand the importance of offering a health guarantee to give peace of mind to our valued adopters.

To provide you with detailed information about our health guarantee, we invite you to visit our website’s adoption process page. There, you will find a link to a sample contract that includes our health guarantee provisions. This contract outlines the terms and conditions related to the health of our kittens and the coverage we offer.

The pricing of kittens can vary based on several factors, including breed standards and coat color. Here are some key factors that determine the prices of kittens:

1. Breed Standards: Kittens that closely adhere to the breed standards set by cat associations and organizations often command higher prices. These standards define the ideal characteristics, physical attributes, and temperament of a specific breed. Kittens that exhibit exceptional qualities, such as conforming to the breed standard in terms of body structure, head shape, and overall appearance, may be priced higher.

2. Coat Color and Pattern: The coat color and pattern of a kitten can also influence its price. Certain coat colors or patterns may be rarer or more desirable within a particular breed, leading to higher demand and subsequently higher prices. For example, in British Shorthairs, chinchilla patterned kittens may be priced higher than shaded patterned ones and point patterned kittens may also have a higher value.