Pedigree Cat - A Label or much more. Part I
Pedigree but different?
Pure breed vs Pedigree. Show Quality vs Pet quality. What’s the deal?
Navigating terms used by cat aficionados can be confusing especially when there is a difference between pure breed, pedigree, show quality, pet quality, breeding rights, permissible out crosses and various type of classes within the breeds.
Let’s dive into these terms so that we may better understand why a cat of similar pedigree can have distinct standings and standards.
Moggie
Moggie, Tabby cat, Domestic Shorthair or Domestic long hair are all terms used to describe a cat that’s not registered with a recognized cat registrar
These cats have no provenance. It is prudent to get them tested for FELV & FHIV prior to adoption to ensure no accidental transmission of these highly contagious diseases.
Sales agreement , import documents or veterinary certificates are not acceptable documents for breed recognition.
Pure Breed Vs Pedigree
A Pure Breed Cat is a term used by pet shops or backyard breeders to justify a price tag.
They imply that the kitten came from pedigree parents of the same breed. Pedigree kittens and cats have certified papers. These kittens or their parents do not. These kittens are Moggies , they did not benefit from the guidance of an experienced registered breeder nor the restrictions imposed on a registered breeder. They are likely brought up without appropriate care and experience due to accidents. They should be health screened prior to adoption
Show quality Vs Pet quality
A pedigree is simply a pet with a piece of paper showing it’s heritage. It includes Kitten’s name with or without cattery , microchip number , breed , color and pattern of kitten as well as titles gained by its family etc.
There are 2 types of pedigree, one is certified by an association to indicate that the cat is registered and the other is issued by the breeder which may indicate that the cat is not registered.
It is possible to get a registered cat without pedigree as these are 2 different documents.
What’s on a pedigree certificate?
The pedigree certificate will also indicate if the kitten is for show or pet quality and if it has been approved for breeding. Show quality kittens cost more and these catteries usually have a long waitlist.
For more on pedigree certificates, check out part II.