A Burmese cat can be a loyal household pet regardless of its class. However, if you don’t plan on breeding or showing your cat, it’s best to choose a pet-class Burmese. These cats have minor deviations from the breed standard and are significantly less expensive than their “documented” relatives. This doesn’t make them any less lovable.

What is Pet-Class?

Pet-class (short for “pet”) refers to purebred Burmese cats with slight deviations from the breed standard or disqualifying features. These cats are not suitable for breeding as there is a high chance of passing on their imperfections to their offspring.

However, pet-class Burmese cats are not ugly, defective, or sick. When buying a kitten, ask the breeder about the specific characteristics of the cat. These usually include:

• Color deviations (stripes on the legs, uneven color, or a mix of shades, non-standard facial features)
• Non-standard eye color
• Inappropriate coat length (too short or too long)
• Incorrect ear shape or placement
• Unusual body structure for a Burmese cat

It’s important to note that breeders often classify kittens as pet-class even for minor defects that an average buyer might not notice. These nuances are insignificant to a cat lover but critical to a breeder.

A kitten that doesn’t meet show or breed standards is still healthy, beautiful, and needs a loving home. The deviations that prevent them from participating in shows do not cause them any discomfort. With proper care and attention, they grow into wonderful, loyal pets.

Disqualifying Defects in Burmese Cats

Defects that make it impossible to sell a Burmese cat include various anatomical abnormalities such as:

• Incorrect bite
• Bone or spinal deformities
• Tail kinks
• Cryptorchidism (absence of one or both testicles in the scrotum)

These anomalies are often linked to hereditary factors and can be compounded by acquired diseases, which a weakened Burmese kitten may struggle to fight off.

Reputable breeders will never deceive customers by offering sick or genetically flawed kittens.

Selling Pet-Class Kittens

The cost of Burmese kittens depends on whether they are suitable for breeding. Pet-class kittens are sold without pedigrees and must be spayed or neutered. They are cheaper than breed or show-class cats, making them a popular choice for those seeking a pet.

However, breed and show-class kittens can also be purchased as pets. In such cases, breeders sell them at a lower price on the condition that they are spayed or neutered, ensuring they are not used for breeding.

Why Neuter or Spay Kittens?

Neutering and spaying are essential for the animal’s safety. Regular heat cycles in female Burmese cats and the mating urge in males can lead to health issues such as prostate or ovarian tumors and uterine infections. These conditions can be fatal if not addressed.

Unspayed or unneutered cats with unfulfilled mating instincts can exhibit behavioral changes, risking the bond with their owner.

Reliable catteries take care of neutering and spaying Burmese cats. This relieves future owners of the burden and cost of the surgery and ensures that the cats will not be used for breeding by unscrupulous buyers. The cost of the service, as well as expenses for food, care, and veterinary services, are included in the kitten’s price.

Looking for a loving, affectionate companion? The Via Emilia cattery specializes in breeding Burmese cats in Amsterdam. We are always happy to offer kittens raised in an atmosphere of love and care.