>>Hi, I'm new to the list. I live in central upstate NY and have theoretically fallen in love with the Tonkinese. Never met one in person, but they sound just about perfect. I've had cats most of my life (a loooong time), but they have all been mixed breed. I'm not sure as to how to go about getting a purebred cat, especially a Tonkinese, especially in my neck of the woods (rural). The nearest breeders I can find live about 3 hours away. I'm not sure how to judge whether a breeder is good or of the "backyard" variety. Do you just pick a cat sight unseen? I'm not so much interested in looks as personality and health. Any suggestions about how to approach this and what to look for would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. Karin

Research, research and more research. Coming here was a GREAT first step! Don't be afriad to e-mail or call the breeder and don't be afriad to ask questions. How many times does the person breed their queens? What association(s) do they register with? Do they show, and if they do are their cats Grand Champions and/or regional and national winners? Do they sell their kittens under contract, and if so what does that contract state? Do they raise their kittens 'under foot?' If for some reason you are unable to keep the kitten will the breeder take said kitten back? If possible vist the breeder in person to check out the conditions the kittens are raised in. Ask if you can contact others who have bought kittens from the breeder to see what they think. Hope you find your purrfect match quickly!
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PURRS!!!!
Tricia
Da-Katz Tonks
Siamese on valium/Burmese on speed!

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