Alright, let’s talk about getting a British Shorthair kitten and what it actually costs. I went through this whole process myself not too long ago because I just fell in love with their chubby cheeks and calm vibe.
So, the first thing I did was basically just dive into the internet. I started searching around, looking at breeder websites, forums, even just general pet sites. Honestly, the prices I saw were kind of all over the map. Some ads looked suspiciously cheap, while others were asking for amounts that made my eyes water a bit.
Starting the Real Search
I figured just looking online wasn’t enough. I wanted to talk to actual breeders. Finding reputable ones took some effort. I looked for people registered with cat associations, folks who seemed to really care about the breed, not just making a quick buck. I made a list and started sending emails and making phone calls.
Talking to breeders gave me a much clearer picture. Most legitimate breeders had a price range, and it wasn’t pocket change. They explained what went into it – the cost of caring for the mother cat, vet check-ups for the kittens, vaccinations, microchipping, quality food, and all the paperwork that proves the kitten is a genuine British Shorthair with good lineage.
What Makes the Price Vary?
From my chats and research, I figured out a few things that really seemed to shift the price tag:
- Pedigree: Kittens from champion bloodlines? Yeah, they usually cost more. Makes sense, the breeder invested a lot in those parent cats.
- Breeder Reputation: Well-known breeders who’ve been doing this for years and have a great reputation often charge more. You’re paying for their experience and the health guarantees they often provide.
- Color/Markings: The classic blue is super popular, but sometimes less common colors or patterns, like cinnamon or fawn, might fetch a higher price, or sometimes lower depending on demand.
- Location: Where the breeder is located can play a part, probably due to their own costs of living and vet care in the area.
- What’s Included: Some breeders include the first round of shots, deworming, a microchip, maybe even spaying/neutering and a small starter pack of food or toys. Others sell the kitten with just basic vet checks.
- Pet vs. Show Quality: Kittens intended just as pets are usually less expensive than those deemed ‘show quality’ with perfect markings and conformation according to breed standards.
Finding My Kitten
After weeks of searching and talking, I finally found a breeder I felt comfortable with. They were about a two-hour drive away. They weren’t the cheapest, but definitely not the most expensive either. They invited me to visit (after the kittens were old enough, of course) and see the mother cat and the environment the kittens were raised in. Everything looked clean, the cats seemed happy and well-cared-for.
The price they quoted included the first set of vaccinations, deworming, a health certificate from their vet, and registration papers. I had to put down a deposit first to reserve my little guy. The final cost, when I picked him up, landed somewhere in the mid-range of what I’d been seeing from other reputable breeders. I’d say, based on my experience, be prepared for a range roughly between, let’s say, $1200 to $2500, sometimes even more for those really top-tier kittens from famous catteries. My own fell comfortably within that.
Don’t Forget the Extras!
Important note: The purchase price is just the beginning! I quickly realized I needed a bunch of other stuff: food bowls, water fountain, litter box, litter, scratching posts (very important!), toys, a comfy bed, a carrier, and then the ongoing costs like food, litter, and vet check-ups. It all adds up.
So, yeah, getting a British Shorthair kitten was an investment. It took time to research and find the right breeder, and it wasn’t cheap. But seeing my little furball settled in makes it feel worthwhile. Just make sure you do your homework and are prepared for the financial commitment before you jump in!
