How to choose a good breeder ?

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When searching for a Maine Coon, you’ll likely come across breeders with websites, social media pages, or listings through organisations such as GCCF or TICA. These are good places to start, but registration alone doesn’t tell the full story.

What matters most is how the cats are raised, how carefully litters are planned, and whether the breeder takes lifelong responsibility for every kitten they produce.

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What we believe every responsible breeder should do

At a minimum, a breeder should:

• Allow kittens to leave no earlier than 13 weeks, giving them time to grow confident, healthy, and well socialised

• Provide a clear written contract, including:​

  • An indoor-only agreement

  • A strict no-declawing policy

  • A lifetime return promise, so if circumstances ever change, your cat always has a safe place to come back to

• Never let a kitten leave if they are unwell

• Fully health test both parents, with proof available

  • this DNA testing for HCM, SMA & PKD at a minimum

  • All breeding cats should be tested — if a cat is too young to test, they are too young to breed

• Provide official registration papers and a full pedigree

• Neuter pet kittens before leaving, or ensure this is enforced by contract

• Take time to get to know you, your home, and your lifestyle, because these kittens are family, not commodities

• Own and live with the kitten’s mother, raising kittens in a home environment​

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Things that matter just as much

• A good breeder welcomes questions and communicates openly and kindly

• Many reputable breeders don’t always have kittens available; waiting lists and planned litters are a good sign

• Cats should be raised in the heart of the home, with space, enrichment, and individual care

• Trust your instincts — if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to walk away​

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From us

We’re always happy to talk through any of this, even if you don’t choose a Townhill kitten. Educated, informed owners are good for the breed, and that matters to us.

Whether you’re looking for a future show star or a much-loved pet, the decision deserves care, honesty, and trust on both sides.

We wish you every bit of luck in finding the right Maine Coon to join your family 🤍
Townhill Maine Coons 🐾