Adoption Policy for British Shorthair Kittens

Adopting a British Shorthair kitten brings joy, but it also requires responsibility. At Shorthair Cattery, we believe every kitten deserves a safe, loving, and permanent home. Therefore, we create a clear adoption policy that outlines how we raise our kittens, what new owners can expect, and the requirements you must meet.

First, read this information carefully before you reach out, because we do not negotiate these guidelines, and they ensure the best future for our kittens.

Kitten Readiness: Why Timing Matters

British Shorthair kittens grow slowly compared to some breeds, so we never rush the process. Consequently, our kittens stay with us until we fully socialize them, ensure their health, and confirm their developmental readiness—generally between 8–15 weeks of age.

  1. During this time, they learn proper litter training, social behavior, and early manners.
  2. Additionally, we administer vaccinations, conduct veterinary checkups, and provide age-appropriate care to kittens before they leave our home.
  3. We never release a kitten earlier, even if you request it, since this action could compromise its health and long-term development.
  4. Furthermore, you must spay or neuter pet-only kittens by six months of age. Once we receive written proof of this procedure from a licensed veterinarian, we will provide the official pedigree and registration documents.
  5. However, if no kittens are currently available or if none match your desired color, pattern, or gender, you may request that we add you to our waitlist for upcoming litters.

TICA Registration and Show Standards

As a show cattery, we register every kitten with The International Cat Association (TICA). This step ensures authenticity, proper breeding practices, and recognition within the cat community.

  1. For registered names, buyers must choose a TICA-registered name for their kitten at least two weeks before the go-home date.
  2. For pet kittens, we release registration slips and numbers after you provide spay/neuter proof.
  3. Meanwhile, kittens intended for showing or breeding undergo stricter evaluation and require additional agreements.
  4. In addition, this process guarantees that we correctly document each kitten, so new owners gain confidence in their kitten’s lineage and quality.

British Shorthair Kitten Pricing

Pricing reflects not only the kitten’s color and rarity but also the time, care, and dedication we invest in raising it.

  1. Blue, lilac, chocolate, red, and cream, and combinations (bicolor, point, tabby, and tortie) range from $800 to $2,000.
  2. Black/chocolate golden shaded or shell/point (ny11/12, by11/12) range from $1,500 to $3,000.
  3. Moreover, the black silver shaded/shell (NS11/12, BS11/12, NY1133/1233, BS1133/BS1233) range from $1,000 to $2,500.

Breeding Rights

We offer breeding rights at double the kitten’s pet price. However, we reserve these only for responsible, ethical breeders who understand the required commitment.

By maintaining this structure, we ensure that kittens in breeding homes continue to represent the best of the British Shorthair breed.

Reserving a Kitten: Step by Step

Our reservation process ensures fairness and transparency for every buyer.

Joining the Waitlist

A $250 deposit secures your spot on the waiting list. We process deposits in the order we receive them.

Kitten Birth Announcements

When kittens arrive, we notify families in sequence. Then, you may confirm interest or choose to wait for another litter.

Reservation Confirmation

  1. Once you select a kitten, a 50% payment of the total price confirms the reservation.
  2. At this time, you sign a purchase agreement and provide a copy for you to review.

Updates While You Wait

  1. For safety and health, we do not permit in-person visits until pickup day.
  2. Instead, we offer video calls, videos, and photos.

⚠️ If you do not pay the remaining balance by the required date, you forfeit the deposit, and we may offer the kitten to the next family in line.

Deposit Terms and Forfeiture

Deposits represent a commitment of good faith. They reserve a kitten and confirm buyers’ seriousness about adoption. However, we do not refund them under certain circumstances.

For instance, you forfeit a deposit if:

  1. You change your mind after reserving.
  2. You fail to pay the remaining balance.
  3. The kitten grows older while remaining reserved and loses resale value.
  4. We incur additional costs while holding the kitten past its scheduled go-home date.

This policy protects both the kittens and our cattery from unnecessary delays and expenses.

Cancellation Policy

Our priority always focuses on the kitten’s well-being. We reserve the right to cancel any sale if we determine that the placement does not suit the kitten’s best interest.

In this situation, we fully refund any payments to the buyer. Although this decision occurs rarely, it allows us to ensure kittens only go to truly suitable homes.

Accepted Payment Methods

To make the adoption process easy, we accept multiple payment options:

Zelle

PayPal

Apple Pay

Chime

Cash (for in-person pickup)

We document every payment and email a receipt or confirmation to the buyer for transparency.

Delivery and Pick-Up

New owners handle transportation arrangements. While we offer guidance, you bear the final responsibility.

  1. At pickup, you must bring a safe cat carrier. If you lack one, you may purchase a carrier from us for $100.
  2. If you cannot collect your kitten in person, you may arrange a private courier at your own expense. For your convenience, we also offer a professional kitten nanny service that safely delivers your kitten to your doorstep. This service usually costs $300 or less, depending on your location.
  3. For the protection of our kittens, we do not sell to pet shops or third-party resellers.

Preparation Guide for New Owners

To help your new kitten adjust smoothly, prepare your home before their arrival.

Essentials to Have Ready

  • Cat Carrier: You need this for safe travel from our cattery to your home.
  • Food & Water Bowls: Preferably, use stainless steel or ceramic.
  • Kitten Food: We recommend starting with the same brand we use to prevent stomach upset.
  • Litter Box & Litter: Choose low-sided options for kittens, and place them in a quiet, accessible area.
  • Bedding: Provide a cozy bed or blanket in a safe, quiet corner.
  • Toys & Scratch Posts: British Shorthairs act playfully yet calmly; they need stimulation but prefer interactive toys over constant activity.

First Days at Home

  • Quiet Environment: Limit visitors and noise during the adjustment period.
  • Routine Feeding: Stick to consistent meal times for security.
  • Safe Space: Allow the kitten to explore one room at a time before you introduce the entire house.
  • Veterinary Visit: Schedule an exam with your vet within the first week to establish care and keep vaccination schedules on track.

By preparing properly, you ensure your kitten feels safe, confident, and ready to bond with their new family.

Our Commitment to You

When you adopt a kitten from Shorthair Cattery, you not only take home a pet—you join a family that deeply values the health, happiness, and preservation of the British Shorthair breed.

We carefully screen potential homes, provide lifelong breeder support, and remain available to answer questions even after your kitten goes home.

Final Thoughts

Adopting a British Shorthair kitten offers both joy and responsibility. At Shorthair Cattery, our policies ensure we match every kitten with the right family, raise them with love, and give them the best start in life.

Ready to welcome a British Shorthair kitten into your family? Contact us today to begin the adoption process or join our waitlist for upcoming litters.