Frequently Asked Questions About Our Maine Coon kittens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Welcome to our FAQ page! Here you'll find answers to the most common questions about our Maine Coon cats and maine coon kittens. If you need further assistance, don't hesitate to contact us!
There is plenty of information on kitten care and other kitten information.
1. Do you specialize in European or American lines?
We specialize exclusively in European lines. Many of our females hold champion titles, ensuring that we maintain high standards in both appearance and health.
2. What health/genetic testing is done on your breeding cats and kittens?
We take the health and genetic well-being of our cats seriously. We begin with snap testing and PCRs in Europe. After they arrive home, we conduct additional snap tests for FeLV and FIV, as well as repeat PCR tests (fecal, respiratory, FeLV). We also run a full DNA panel through Wisdom Panel and have an echocardiogram performed by a feline cardiologist. Hip X-rays are completed, and for DBE (Dominant Blue Eye) cats, we run a BAER test to check for hearing sensitivity. To maintain a healthy environment, we routinely screen for fecal and respiratory infections.
3. Do you have pedigrees on your breeding cats?
Yes, we study the full pedigrees of all our breeding cats. We carefully analyze their family lines to ensure we are minimizing the percentage of inbreeding (COI). We focus on a 10-generation pedigree for a more detailed genetic analysis and to maintain healthy genetic diversity.
4. Do you offer a health guarantee for your kittens?
Yes, we offer a health guarantee for all of our kittens. For full details, please refer to our cattery contract, available on our website www.curiouscolorfulchaoscattery.com.
5. Are you registered with the CFA and/or TICA, or any other associations?
We are registered with both CFA (Cat Fanciers’ Association) and TICA (The International Cat Association). Most of our kittens are registered with TICA, as that seems to be the buyer's preference, but we can also register them with CFA if requested.
6. What vaccines do the kittens receive before going home? Do you do early spay/neuter?
Our kittens receive their first two sets of vaccinations at 8 and 12 weeks of age. We believe in a slower vaccination schedule to ensure their bodies have time to adjust.
We do not practice early spay/neuter (ESN). Studies show that removing hormones before 10 months can lead to developmental issues like hip dysplasia and other skeletal concerns.
7. At what age do you allow your kittens to go home?
We aim to send kittens home at 12 weeks of age. However, the timing may vary based on the individual kitten's development. All of our kittens have left at 12 weeks, but we prioritize what’s best for each kitten.
8. How are your kittens socialized?
Our kittens grow up in a busy, loving home with three young children, providing them with plenty of socialization. From birth, they receive constant human interaction, and I am present at every birth to assist the mother as needed.
9. Are your kittens introduced to other pets, like dogs?
Although we currently don’t have any dogs in our home, about 80% of our kittens go to homes with dogs without any issues. There is typically an adjustment period, but most kittens adapt well to their new environment.
10. What do you feed your Maine Coons?
We feed Royal Canin Mother Cat and Baby Cat dry food, as well as Royal Canin Kitten dry food. These are available at all times for free feeding. We also provide a mix of Royal Canin Mother Cat & Baby Cat wet food with Purina Pro Plan Chicken & Spinach wet food, Fortiflora probiotics, and a small amount of canned pumpkin twice a day for added health benefits.
11. How much do your kittens cost?
Our kittens start at $3,500. Prices may vary based on factors such as eye color (dominant blue eyes) or coat color (e.g., shaded shell coats).
12. Do you have a waitlist? How can I join?
Yes, we have a waitlist. To join, please fill out the application on our website. If your application is approved, we will arrange a telephone interview to ensure that our kittens are placed in the best homes.
13. How many litters do you have per year/month?
As a small in-home cattery, we typically have 3-4 litters per year. We prioritize the health and well-being of our cats and do not force breeding. Some of our cats may only breed once a year, and we aim for just one litter at a time to give each kitten the best possible care.
14. I see that you breed DBE (Dominant Blue Eye) cats. Do you have pairings that don't have this trait?
Yes, we do breed non-DBE cats. While pairing DBE cats together will guarantee DBE kittens, we believe this limits genetic diversity, which can lead to health issues. We make sure to maintain a broad genetic pool to minimize the risk of genetic disorders.
15. What are my options for picking up my kitten, especially if I’m located far away (e.g., Holly Springs, NC)?
We offer free delivery to Nashville International Airport, where you can pick up your kitten and take it home in-cabin for a $125 fee. We also use Boston's Pet Transport for ground transport, which starts at $399, depending on the route. You are always welcome to come to our home to pick up your kitten in person.
16. Do you allow video calls?
Yes, we offer video calls and phone calls, as well as weekly updates on your kitten’s progress. Even after your kitten goes home, we’re happy to stay in touch and enjoy updates as your kitten grows. We consider our owners a part of our cattery family.
If you have any more questions or would like to learn more about our cattery, don’t hesitate to reach out! We're here to help ensure you find the perfect Maine Coon companion.
