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Pet Buyer’s Guide

Pet Buyer’s Guide

How to Avoid Scams

When adding a new pet to your family, it’s crucial to ensure you’re working with reputable sources. This checklist is designed to guide you through the process, helping you avoid scams and make informed decisions.

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1Research the Breed
  • Understand the specific needs, characteristics, and common health issues of the breed.
  • Know the average price range for the breed to spot unusually high or low prices, which could indicate a scam.
2Verify Breeder's Credibility
  • Look for reviews or testimonials from previous buyers.
  • Check if the breeder is registered with a reputable organization or club specific to the breed.
  • Visit the breeder in person, if possible, to see the conditions in which the animals are raised.
  • Does the breeder have their cats independently evaluated [shown] at TICA cat shows, and are any of their cats of sufficient quality as to have obtained TICA titles?
3Request Detailed Information
  • Ask for health and genetic records for the sire and dam of the kittens.
  • Request to see the parents of the pet, either in person or through video if a visit isn't possible.
4Be Cautious with Online Transactions
  • Avoid breeders who only communicate via email or text.
  • Be wary of breeders who require full payment before you choose a specific kitten. Never pay via wire transfer or gift cards.
  • Check the breeder's website or online presence for authenticity.
5Ask the Right Questions
  • Inquire about the cat or kitten's current diet, vaccinations, and any special care needs.
  • Ask about the breeder's return policy or health guarantees.
6Understand the Contract
  • Carefully read any contract or agreement before signing.
  • Ensure that the contract includes details about health guarantees and return policies.
  • Be certain to enter into a written contract with the breeder.
7Avoid Impulsive Decisions
  • Do not rush into a purchase, even if you are pressured to act quickly due to high demand or limited availability.
  • Take your time to assess the breeder and the cat or kitten thoroughly.
8Be Wary of Red Flags
  • Suspiciously low prices or “free” cat or kitten requiring payment for shipping or other fees.
  • Lack of knowledge about the breed or reluctance to answer questions.
  • No veterinary records or unwillingness to provide verifiable references.
9Trust Your Instincts
  • If something feels off about a transaction, it’s better to walk away.
10Disclaimer & Warning
  • TICA endeavors to provide a safe and reliable platform for cat enthusiasts and breeders. However, it is important to exercise caution and diligence when engaging in transactions, particularly involving pet sales. Please be aware that there are numerous pet sales scam operations that may attempt to deceive individuals by withholding critical information such as physical addresses or legitimate contact details. These entities often request substantial payments upfront for kittens, without providing adequate assurances or guarantees.
  • We strongly advise all users to conduct thorough research and due diligence before committing to any financial transactions with catteries or individuals. Take the time to verify the legitimacy of the business or breeder, inquire about their reputation within the community, and request references or testimonials from previous customers. Additionally, consider seeking advice from reputable sources or consulting with experienced individuals within the feline community.
  • TICA emphasizes the importance of approaching transactions with breeders with the same level of caution and scrutiny as one would apply to any significant business matter. While we strive to foster a supportive and trustworthy environment, it is ultimately the responsibility of individuals to safeguard themselves against potential scams and fraudulent activities.
  • Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we encourage all users to prioritize their safety and security when engaging in transactions on TICA.org.

By following this checklist, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams and ensure a safer and more reliable process in finding your new pet. Remember, a reputable breeder or seller will have the animal’s best interests at heart and be transparent with you throughout the process.

Buyer Beware Disclaimer

Disclaimer & Warning

TICA endeavors to provide a safe and reliable platform for cat enthusiasts and breeders. However, it is important to exercise caution and diligence when engaging in transactions, particularly involving pet sales. Please be aware that there are numerous pet sales scam operations that may attempt to deceive individuals by withholding critical information such as physical addresses or legitimate contact details. These entities often request substantial payments upfront for kittens, without providing adequate assurances or guarantees. We strongly advise all users to conduct thorough research and due diligence before committing to any financial transactions with catteries or individuals. Take the time to verify the legitimacy of the business or breeder, inquire about their reputation within the community, and request references or testimonials from previous customers. Additionally, consider seeking advice from reputable sources or consulting with experienced individuals within the feline community. TICA emphasizes the importance of approaching transactions with breeders with the same level of caution and scrutiny as one would apply to any significant business matter. While we strive to foster a supportive and trustworthy environment, it is ultimately the responsibility of individuals to safeguard themselves against potential scams and fraudulent activities. Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we encourage all users to prioritize their safety and security when engaging in transactions on TICA.org.

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