If you’re considering getting a Siamese cat, one of the first things you might be wondering is whether to get your new furry friend from a breeder or a rescue. While both options have their pros and cons, it’s important to be aware of them before making your decision. Here are a few things to consider when looking at Siamese breeders:

Pros of Getting a Siamese from a Breeder:

• Predictability: Working with a reputable Siamese breeder means you can have a better idea of what your cat’s looks, size, and personality will be like.
• Health Screening: Ethical breeders will do health screenings to make sure their cats don’t carry any genetic diseases or defects.
• Pedigree: Breeders can provide extensive pedigree information for their cats, showing that they come from a long line of healthy and desirable traits.
• Breeder Support: Many breeders offer support and advice throughout the cat’s lifetime and will take back the cat if the owner can no longer care for it.

Cons of Getting a Siamese from a Breeder:

• Cost: Siamese cats from breeders can be expensive, and some unscrupulous breeders may charge extra for features like blue or crossed eyes.
• Potential for Unethical Breeding: Unfortunately, not all breeders are ethical, and some may overbreed their cats or keep them in subpar conditions.
• Limited Choices: Breeders will only have a limited number of cats available at any given time, and it may take several months of waiting to get the exact cat you’re looking for.

Why Adopting from a Siamese Rescue is a Worthy Cause

Adopting a Siamese cat from a rescue is an excellent option for several reasons, including:

Saving a Life

Adopting from a rescue saves a life and opens up space for another cat in need. Many Siamese rescues operate on limited budgets and space, so adopting a cat from them can literally mean the life or death of the cat you’re adopting, as well as others.

Reduced Cost

Adopting from a rescue is often cheaper than getting a purebred Siamese from a breeder, especially if the cat has already been spayed or neutered and is up-to-date on vaccinations.

Older Cats Need Homes Too

Many Siamese rescues take in older cats who may have been surrendered by their owners. While kittens are often desirable, adult cats can make excellent pets too, and may already be litter box trained and have some basic training under their belt.

Pre-Adoption Assessments

Rescues provide pre-adoption vet checks and behavioral assessments, ensuring that the cats are healthy and have been properly socialized. Some rescue organizations even offer post-adoption support, helping to ensure a successful transition for both the cat and the owner.

In the end, the decision to adopt a Siamese cat from a rescue or go through a breeder ultimately comes down to personal choice and what is best for you. The most important thing is to ensure that you are working with a reputable organization or individual that has the best interests of the cats at heart.

Things to Consider Before Choosing a Siamese Breeder

If you’ve weighed the pros and cons and have decided that going through a breeder is the best choice for you, there are a few additional things to consider before choosing a Siamese breeder.

Reputable Breeders

The first and most important thing is to ensure that the breeder is reputable and operates with the best interests of the cats in mind. This means doing your research and checking their credentials and reviews.

Visit the Breeder

It’s important to visit the breeder and see the facilities and cats first-hand. A responsible breeder will be upfront about their breeding practices and living conditions for their cats.

Health Clearances

Ask to see health clearances for the cats that they breed. A good breeder will have done health screenings to ensure that their cats are free from genetic disorders and defects.

Contracts

A responsible breeder will offer a contractual health guarantee and be willing to take back the cat at any point in its life if you’re no longer able to care for it.

The Benefits of Rescuing a Siamese Cat in Need

Rescuing a Siamese cat in need is a worthy cause that can come with several benefits, including:

Saving a Life

Adopting from a Siamese rescue means that you are providing a forever home for a cat that otherwise may not have had one.

No Surprises

With a rescue cat, what you see is what you get. Unlike with breeders, which may not be able to guarantee specific traits, rescues can provide you with all the information they know about a cat’s personality and behavior.

Genetic Diversity

Many Siamese rescues take in cats with unique traits and mixes, which can result in a cat that’s not only beautiful but also more genetically diverse.

Sense of Purpose

Adopting from a rescue can give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment, knowing that you are helping to make a difference in the lives of cats in need.

Whether you choose to go through a breeder or rescue, bringing a Siamese cat into your life can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Remember to do your research and choose the option that’s best for you and the cat you wish to welcome into your home.

How to Find Reputable Siamese Breeders in Your Area

Finding a reputable Siamese breeder in your area can be a daunting task, but there are several resources you can use to help make the search easier:

Word of Mouth

Ask around for recommendations in your local cat community. Friends, family, and other cat owners can provide valuable insight into reputable breeders in your area.

Cat Shows

Cat shows provide an opportunity to see purebred Siamese cats up close and to meet breeders in person. Many breeders attend shows to exhibit their cats, and it’s a great way to get to know them and see their breeding practices first-hand.

Online Directories

There are several online directories that list reputable Siamese breeders, such as The International Cat Association (TICA) and The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA).

Professional Organizations

Reputable breeders will be a member of a professional organization, such as TICA or CFA. These organizations provide guidelines and ethical standards for their members to follow.

Referrals

Reputable breeders will be willing to provide referrals from past customers. Reach out to these customers to get a better sense of the breeder’s reputation and behavior.

Making the Final Decision: Choosing Between a Breeder and Rescue

After weighing the pros and cons and doing your research, it’s time to make the final decision. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Personal Circumstances

Consider your own lifestyle and circumstances. Are you able to afford a Siamese from a breeder, or would a rescue be a better fit financially? Do you have the time and resources to train a kitten from a breeder, or would adopting an adult cat from a rescue be a better choice?

Personality and Traits

Think about what specific personality traits and physical characteristics you’re hoping for in your Siamese cat. If you have specific preferences, a reputable breeder may be the best way to ensure that you get the cat you’re looking for.

Timeframe

Consider your timeline for getting a cat. If you’re looking for a specific type of Siamese, going through a breeder may take longer than adopting from a rescue.

In the end, the decision comes down to what is best for you and the cat you wish to welcome into your life. Be sure to do your research and choose the option that you feel most comfortable with. Regardless of whether you choose a breeder or rescue, your Siamese cat will no doubt bring you years of love and companionship.