Partnerships Between Breeders & Veterinarians

Relationships are so important. Family. Friends. Professional colleagues. And for a cat breeder, mentors, breeding partners, and that all-important relationship with their veterinarian.

- Ann Strople

Whether you I have been breeding cats for decades or are a new breeder, establishing and maintaining a relationship with a veterinarian is important. In fact, critically important. No matter how much you know about your breed, breeding cats, and/or cat illnesses and conditions, a partnership with a veterinarian is not just nice, it's absolutely necessary.

Yes, as a responsible breeder it is your job to learn as much as possible about your breed, unusual situations that may arise, and how to recognize a potential problem. But that does not obviate a need for a close relationship with your veterinarian. They are the professionals-educated, trained, and experienced in veterinary medicine and their expertise is essential to the welfare of your cats and the success of your breeding program.

What are the Key Ingredients?

That said, what goes into a great relationship, one where there is a commitment to developing and maintaining a true partnership in the care of your cats? First and foremost, as in most relationships, it is mutual respect and trust.

Just as in any relationship, some simply cannot be fixed. A veterinarian who believes that breeding cats is inherently wrong obviously won't be the best choice for a cat breeder. Conversely, a cat breeder who only wants a veterinarian to dispense medications as requested and to do things their way, regardless of their veterinarian's experience with the situation, probably won't be a good client for a conscientious veterinarian who is committed to providing the best possible care for the breeder's cats and kittens.

Establishing and Maintaining the Partnership