Before we retired from breeding my husband and I were extremely particular about the health, feeding, care and socialization of our kittens. I became very aware of all the detailed care, time and cost that must go into breeding the most loving, sound and healthy kittens. I regularly hear from kitten buyers that it’s sometimes difficult to find a breeder with kittens that have good bloodlines, robust health and loving dispositions. Unfortunately it’s true that not everyone who begins breeding these wonderful cats, has taken the time to study and learn all they should about the Highland Lynx breed, feeding, ear and paw care, etc. as well as the necessary financial investments (which can be substantial).
Thankfully, there are a number of experienced and excellent Highland Lynx breeders in the US and Canada today. Knowing that you are dealing with a trustworthy breeder is very important because, while every aspect of the kittens’ well-being is paramount, the character of their breeder is the cornerstone of any cattery!
Far too often I hear sad stories of kittens who have died or cost their new owner hundreds of dollars because they came from a careless or irresponsible breeder. Some people start breeding because they are motivated by the promise of a quick income and when they discover the immense amount of work and the big investment of time and money that it takes to be an excellent breeder, they begin to compromise their standards and thus the health and well-being of their cats. It can literally take years for a good breeder to begin to make much profit and many people are just not willing to wait that long, so they skimp on cat and kitten care. Both buyers and kittens suffer for those kinds of decisions.
Many elements go into making an excellent breeder and happy, healthy kittens that are well socialized and have a strong immune system: species appropriate foods and proper feeding stations; fresh, safe drinking water; regular cleaning of food and water bowls, nursery areas and litter pans, bedding; appropriate Vet care without over-medicating; large amounts of quality time with new kittens; supplements for breeding Sire and Dam; Cat trees, climbers, scratchers and toys for exercise; regular grooming of coat, nails and ears; careful vetting of prospective buyers; meticulous detail regarding shipment or transport of kittens; and the list goes on and on.
It can be challenging to find the right Highland Lynx Breeder. If you need help in finding a trustworthy breeder, feel free to send me a message on the Contact Page and I will be glad to let you know if there is one in your area (or if you might be able to have one shipped safely from a reputable seller). NOTE: While I have no intention of saying negative things about specific breeders, I will happily pass along good feedback for breeders who go out of their way to give their very best to raising their Highland Lynx cats and kittens!