How to Choose a Reputable Cat Breeder

By Lise Madson · September 29, 2026 · 6 min read

Start with health and transparency

A reputable breeder is open about health. They can explain how they choose their breeding cats, what health testing they do and what problems appear in the breed. For Maine Coons, ask about heart health and hips.

Look for a written health guarantee and a clear contract. Every Finest Feline kitten comes with a written five-year health guarantee, and we walk families through the contract before they commit.

Ask to see the cats and where they live

A good breeder welcomes visits or live video. You should be able to see the kittens, their mother and the environment they are raised in. Clean, calm, well-lit spaces and friendly, confident cats are good signs.

If a breeder refuses to show you the cats or will only send photos, be cautious. We offer appointments in Hawaii and by video call, and you can also watch our live streams on Facebook.

Check references and reputation

Ask for references from families who have adopted from the breeder. Search for reviews, but remember that reviews can be faked. A real breeder will connect you with real families.

Lise Madson, a retired court judge, built Finest Feline around good contracts, great references and safe transactions. Learn more on our about page.

Watch for red flags

Be careful if a breeder always has many kittens available, sells several breeds, has prices far below the market, or pressures you to pay quickly. Other warning signs include no contract, no health information and no willingness to answer questions.

Never pay for a kitten you have not seen live or in person. Avoid unusual payment methods like gift cards. Legitimate breeders accept normal payment methods and are happy to talk.

Look at how they treat the kitten's future

A good breeder cares about the kitten's whole life. They ask you questions about your home, lifestyle and experience. They want to know the kitten will be safe and loved, and they offer support long after you take the kitten home.

That is why our process begins with a short application and a conversation. It helps us match each kitten with the right home.

Expect a waiting list

Careful breeders do not have unlimited kittens. It is normal to wait for the right litter. Our waiting list offers all Maine Coon cats and kittens to people on the list first, and you can accept or pass on each one.

Waiting is a good sign. It usually means the breeder plans litters carefully rather than producing kittens for volume.

Understand the questions a breeder should ask you

Good breeders interview buyers. Expect questions about your home, other pets, children, work schedule and experience with cats. They may ask for a photo of your home or a video call. This is not rudeness. It shows the breeder cares where the kitten goes.

Our application asks about your household, whether you have owned a cat, who will be home most often and how long you are willing to wait. It helps us match a kitten to your family.

Compare breeders side by side

Make a short list of two or three breeders. Compare how quickly they respond, how openly they share health information, whether they provide a written contract, what the guarantee covers and how they handle delivery.

Do not choose only on price or on cute photos. Choose the breeder you trust most, the one who answers hard questions patiently and stays in touch after the sale.

Trust your instincts

If something feels off, pause. Scammers create urgency and push you to send money quickly. A real breeder gives you time to think and welcomes your questions.

When you are ready, take the next step: apply for a kitten or call Lise at 561-545-3069. We are always glad to talk.

A simple checklist

Before you commit, run through a short list. Can you talk to the breeder by phone or video? Have you seen the kittens and their mother? Is there a written contract and health guarantee? Are the payment methods normal and safe? Can you speak with past buyers? Does the breeder ask you thoughtful questions? Are you allowed to take your time?

If you can answer yes to all of these, you are well on your way. If several answers are no, keep looking. There are wonderful breeders, and it is worth waiting for the right one.

How Finest Feline approaches it

Lise Madson, a retired court judge, brings care and clear paperwork to every placement. We offer good contracts, great references and safe transactions, plus anti-scam purchase protection and a five-year health guarantee. We are happy to be compared with any other breeder, so ask us anything on this list.

Visiting versus video calls

An in-person visit is ideal, but a live video call can work well if you live far away. Ask the breeder to show you the kitten, its mother, the sleeping and play areas and the litter box setup, and to walk you through them in real time. A recorded video or a set of photos is not enough, because those can be copied from elsewhere.

Whichever you choose, take notes and follow up with any questions. A good breeder will be happy to repeat themselves and will never make you feel rushed. Take your time, ask for extra pictures and compare what you see with what you were told.

What to do next

Read our adoption process, see available kittens, or contact us to ask any question. Lise is glad to help you decide, whether you choose us or not.