When Tea and Cake Reveal Your Cat-Friendliness: A Reflection
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The Journey to Our Kittens
It’s hard to believe that five years have passed since my family made the trip from London to Oxford to adopt our cherished Siberian kittens. The aspect that stands out most vividly from that journey isn't the constant meowing of the kittens in the car, but rather the warm hospitality of our breeder, Maria, who is now a dear friend. She welcomed us with tea and cake for over an hour, creating a wonderful atmosphere.
Small Talk and Connection
Our visit began with twenty minutes of small talk, where we chatted about the weather, traffic, and, quite coincidentally, our excitement about becoming first-time cat owners. Following this, Maria treated us to tea and cake while we discussed our family dynamics, including work schedules and how much time we spent at home. As the refreshments kept coming, I realized how generous our host was.
During our conversation, Maria introduced us to her vibrant Amazonian parrot, which scrutinized us to determine if it approved of our presence. Thankfully, it did!
Only after an hour of delightful engagement did Maria step outside to bring in our two kittens. They were stunning and nestled comfortably in my lap and that of my youngest son while Maria passionately explained the necessary flea and worm treatments, as well as the kittens' recent diet. Throughout this time, Maria observed the kittens’ behavior and our reactions closely.
The Test of Suitability
Eventually, it was time for us to head home. As we left, Maria reassured us that the kittens’ meowing during the drive was completely normal and advised us to keep going. It was then that I realized this entire visit had been a subtle assessment. If Maria, along with her parrot, hadn't approved of us or believed we would be responsible cat owners, it’s likely we wouldn’t have been entrusted with those adorable kittens.
This moment underscored a crucial part of the breeding process. Why would breeders hand over their kittens to strangers without evaluating their suitability as pet owners? It is the breeder's responsibility to ensure that their kittens are placed in loving homes, just as it is the owner's duty to provide a safe and joyful environment for their cats.
Our Commitment to Care
From the instant we heard that first meow and felt the warmth of our new kittens, we vowed to give them the best possible home. We were fortunate to meet Maria's standards!
Takeaway
Breeders play a vital role in the adoption process, so patience is essential during this time. If you’re fortunate, your breeder can evolve into not only a source of invaluable knowledge but also a cherished friend. Nurturing your relationship with your breeder is likely to reflect in the care you provide for your cats, too!
