[Written by a Veterinarian] Is Buying a Cat from a Pet Store a Good Idea? Pros, Cons, and Checkpoints for Identifying a Healthy Kitten

Have you ever experienced "making eye contact with a kitten in a display case" or "feeling a connection that felt like destiny"? In Japan, it's common to get a cat from a pet store, but there are also risks you should be aware of from a veterinary and animal welfare perspective.

This time, we will explain "precautions when getting a cat from a pet store" and "how to choose a truly healthy cat."

Pros and 3 Cons of Buying a Cat from a Pet Store

Pros: You can find a specific breed and age

Pet stores display various cat breeds, most of which are kittens aged 2 to 3 months. Since pedigree cats are displayed, it offers the convenience of reliably finding your favorite breed or a 2 to 3-month-old kitten.

Pet stores also sell pet supplies in addition to live animals, so the ease of being able to purchase everything you need on the spot is also appealing.

Con 1: Lack of Socialization and Temperament Issues

Kittens learn various things from their mother cat when they are young, and by experiencing various things during that period, their ability to adapt to environments and people changes. This period is called the "socialization period," and for cats, it is characterized by a short duration, from about 2 weeks to 9 weeks of age. While current Japanese animal welfare management laws require kittens to live with their mother cat until 8 weeks of age, they may not receive adequate learning during the "socialization period." This carries the risk of them developing biting habits or becoming prone to being timid and aggressive.

Con 2: Risk of Infectious Diseases and Genetic Disorders

Cats displayed at pet stores are born at breeding facilities and raised there until 8 weeks of age. Many cats are kept at breeding facilities, and it is not uncommon for them to be infected with cat flu or parasites. Furthermore, infectious diseases can also spread within pet stores.

While it is currently recommended not to use cats with genetic disorders for breeding, the possibility of them having genetic disorders due to overbreeding cannot be ruled out.

Con 3: Mismatch due to Impulse Buying

There is no end to people who buy pets simply because they are "cute." Especially during events like Christmas, graduation seasons, and birthdays, some owners buy pets as gifts and later regret it, saying "the personality wasn't what I expected" or "raising them is difficult." In some cases, they may abandon the pet or give up ownership.

To avoid regret! "Health Checklist" to confirm before purchase

Signs of Health Visible from Appearance

If you find a cat you like, always check its health. You can tell a certain amount just by looking at its face and body. Always check. If you are concerned about its health but still decide to purchase it, you will need to consult a veterinarian early.

Eyes: No discharge or watery eyes (suspicion of cat flu)
Ears: No accumulated earwax or itching (suspicion of ear mites)
Buttocks: Anal area is not soiled (no diarrhea)
Coat: No bald spots or dandruff (suspicion of skin disease, fungal infection)
Physique: Not too thin (suspicion of loss of appetite, internal organ disease, infection)

Even if you like the cat, it is probably best to avoid it if any of these apply.

What You Must Ask the Store Staff

When purchasing, the seller must provide important information to the buyer. However, it's better not to purchase from a seller who cannot explain things even before the purchase.

Here are some questions to ask:

"Who is this cat's breeder?" (Confirmation of traceability)

"Has genetic testing been done?"

"Please show me the vaccination certificate."

"What is the warranty period if a disease is found?"

If they cannot answer these questions immediately, do not try to find out, or try to dodge them, it is not a trustworthy shop. Also, "I cannot tell you unless you purchase" is dishonest for a seller. The attitude of the shop staff is also a factor in choosing a shop.

Not Just One Option. The Happy Choice of Welcoming a "Rescue Cat"

The Appeal of "Adult Cats" with Known Personalities

Kittens are cute, but if they are still very young, feeding management, being left alone, and litter training can be difficult, and they have endless energy, making them high-maintenance. In contrast, adult cats tend to be calmer both physically and temperamentally. Adult cats are hard to find in pet stores, so it's a good idea to adopt an adult rescue cat from a shelter or similar facility. Rescue cats often receive training at facilities, so they are usually accustomed to people and rarely have litter box accidents. They also have fewer restrictions, such as being left alone, allowing you to choose a cat that fits your lifestyle.

The Reality Behind Live Animal Sales and "Saving a Life"

Please learn about the fate of cats unsold at pet stores and the existence of retired breeding cats. Currently, many animal welfare centers in Japan refuse to take in unsold cats from breeders, etc., but abandonment or breeder hoarding still occurs. These cats are rescued by shelters and await new families. Becoming an adoptive parent has the great meaning of saving a life.

Summary

Pet stores display adorable kittens, and it's easy to be captivated. However, impulse buying is an absolute no. Discuss it with your entire family and ensure you can provide lifelong care. When purchasing, understand the risks such as infections and lack of socialization, and thoroughly check the items on the checklist.

Adult cats have a different charm from kittens. Don't forget that there's also the option of a "rescue cat," and choose the happiest way to meet your beloved cat.