Birman Cross

The thing is, Julie, just like yours, these aren't pedigree cats. They’re crossbreeds that private sellers are charging a fortune for, and for the most part, it's completely illegal.

I get your frustration, but people can also want a pedigree cat. I've rescued three stray kittens myself who are all grown up now and living with me, and my latest addition, who arrived a month ago, is a Maine Coon. I understand people wanting a specific breed and I understand your side too, but other than raising awareness about the plight of strays, you can't exactly force people to take them in.

And meanwhile, cats are dying in the pound... all's right with the world.

Hi there,

You’re right—selling a cat, whether it’s a pedigree, a crossbreed, or just a moggy, is subject to licensing laws if the seller is operating as a business. If the person you’re talking to doesn't have a valid breeder’s licence from the council, then it’s completely illegal.

Be careful not to encourage this kind of "backyard breeding" or illegal trade by buying from sites like Gumtree or other marketplaces where animals shouldn't be sold like this.

Beyond that, if anything feels even slightly "off," just walk away. You must be able to see the kitten in person with its mother in the environment where it was raised. If the owner refuses, it’s definitely dodgy.

By law, a kitten must be microchipped and vaccinated before being sold, and must be at least eight weeks old; otherwise, it’s also illegal.

If possible, try not to pick them up until they are twelve weeks old—they’ll be much more well-adjusted and happy for it.

Good luck with your search!