04/01/2023
Copied from another breeder:
POTENTIAL OWNER: How much is the kitten
BREEDER: $1,500
POTENTIAL OWNER: What?? It's way too expensive!!
BREEDER: What do you think would be a good price?
POTENTIAL OWNER: No more than $500. You breeders are so over priced.
BREEDER: I am sorry you see it this way, why don't you try it yourself?
POTENTIAL OWNER: But I've never done it!
BREEDER: For FREE I can teach you how to do it, and in addition you will have the knowledge to do it again.
POTENTIAL OWNER: Perfect, thank you!
BREEDER: To start you will need a female(average cost $1500 and up). Also a male(average cost $1500and up). You will need to show them to their championship to show they meet the breed standard(Minimal $2000 with travel & fees). You will need to do genetic & health testing on them, averages about $500 per cat. Raise and provide daily care, feeding & grooming for at least a year. (So minimal $100 per month)
POTENTIAL OWNER: But I don't have that much money...
BREEDER: For $500 you can raise a litter and then keep one of the kittens. Obviously, you will pay the cost of birthing & care.
POTENTIAL OWNER: I can do that.
BREEDER: OK so I have a female due to deliver in 2 weeks. You will need to be available 24/7 around the clock for at least 16 weeks to help with delivery and care.
POTENTIAL OWNER: 16weeks?? it's way too much time for me! I have to work.
BREEDER: You may also need the reproductive vet to do xrays($200-$500), & C-section($1000-$5000) and initial vet care on kittens until old enough to be placed, including cost for spay/neuter and after care.
Have on hand a scale, thermometer, latex gloves, sanitizer, absorbent tissues, scissors, hemostats, heating pad, birthing box, blankets, cleaning supplies, appropriate food with supplements for mothers, formula, medications & hand feeding supplies in case of emergency....
POTENTIAL OWNER: But I don't have all these things!
BREEDER: For $1000 you can buy them.
POTENTIAL OWNER: Ummm .... You know, I think it might be better if I just buy a kitten.
BREEDER: Wise decision.
For reputable breeders there are few vacations or holidays. While you go to visit with family & friends, we are home at our cats side caring for them. It is a no breaks commitment.
THIS IS THE REALITY
When you choose a professional you don't only pay for the kitten but also:
Tools, knowledge, experience, love, time, sacrifices, etc. No breeder who takes proper care of their animals is making big money. It all goes back into the breeding program. This a true preservation breeder.