How to choose a responsible cat breeder in Connecticut

By Lil Lisset's Minuets · Updated October 8, 2026

Choosing a breeder is the most important step in getting a healthy, happy kitten. Whether you choose us or someone else, these questions help you spot a breeder who puts the cats first.

Registration

Ask whether the cattery and the kittens are registered with a recognized registry such as TICA. Lil Lisset's is a TICA-registered cattery, and every kitten is TICA registered.

Health care and guarantee

A responsible breeder provides vaccinations, a vet health check and parasite treatment before a kitten goes home, and backs the kitten with a written health guarantee. Ours includes shots, a vet health check, parasite treatment and a 1 year guarantee against genetic illness.

Where the kittens are raised

Ask where the kittens live. Kittens raised in a home, with people, children and other animals, are usually friendlier and more confident. Ours are raised in our home among our kids, grandkids and dogs.

Transparency and paperwork

You should receive clear paperwork, a written contract and health history, and updates on your kitten as it grows. Read the contract carefully. Ours is available on our About page.

Willingness to answer questions

A good breeder answers questions openly and asks about your home too. Be wary of anyone who rushes you, will not let you ask about the parents, or cannot show you the cats' home.

Clear pricing and payments

Expect a clear price and deposit process. Our deposit is $100 and we accept Zelle, CashApp, Venmo, PayPal and crypto. Never send money to someone you have not spoken to and whose cattery you cannot verify.

Delivery

If you cannot pick up your kitten, ask how delivery works. We personally escort kittens to the local airport for families who are not close, and we negotiate each flight individually.

A short checklist to take with you

Is the cattery registered? Are the kittens raised in a home? What shots, vet checks and treatments are done before pickup? Is there a written guarantee and contract? Can you ask questions and see updates? Are the price and deposit clear? If any answer is vague, keep asking.

Visiting a cattery

Many catteries welcome visits by appointment. Look for clean, comfortable living areas and relaxed, friendly cats. Notice how the breeder talks about the cats. A caring breeder speaks easily about each cat's personality and history.

Red flags to watch for

Be careful if a seller always has many litters available, will not let you ask about the parents, refuses to provide registration papers, pressures you to pay fast or avoids phone calls. Trust your instincts. A responsible breeder is open and patient.

What happens after you choose

Once you commit, expect a contract, a deposit, regular updates and a clear plan for pickup or delivery. After the kitten goes home, a good breeder stays available for questions. We are always glad to hear how our kittens are doing.