Internet Safety Tips 

Beware of ONLINE SCAMMERS & POP-UP CAT BREEDERS!⚠️

How to Avoid Scams and Pop-Up Breeders When Buying Persian or Himalayan Kittens

Buying a healthy Persian or Himalayan kitten online has become incredibly difficult due to the rise of scammers and inexperienced pop-up breeders. It’s essential to understand that there are far more scammers online than genuine, reputable cat breeders.

And let’s be clear: You’re not buying a Persian kitten for $500–$1200 online and having it shipped to you. If you think you’ve found a deal that good, the only way you should pay is if you meet the breeder in person—period.

We frequently hear from people who have been scammed by fake websites or Facebook pages. Most scams happen on Facebook, where creating an account takes little effort. Often, these scams result in people either losing their money entirely or receiving a kitten that looks nothing like the one they expected.

If you’re looking for a kitten, here’s how to make sure the breeder you’re dealing with is honest and genuine:

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1. Never Buy a Kitten Off Facebook

Most “kittens for sale” ads on Facebook are from pop-up breeders who don’t have the knowledge or experience to breed healthy cats. These breeders may claim to have been in the business for years, but the kittens they sell are often unhealthy and may not live beyond three or four years. On top of that, you’re likely to spend a fortune on vet bills.

Genuine breeders will have a professional website—not just a Facebook account. Be cautious and think twice before trusting a Facebook ad.

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2. Check the Age of the Website

Pop-up breeders often create small, quick websites claiming they’ve been breeding for “20+ years.” To verify their claim, use a website age checker. While it’s possible they’ve been in business longer than their website has existed, it’s a red flag if the site is only a year or two old and they claim decades of experience.

Pop-up breeders are notorious for selling sick kittens, often without proper genetic testing. This can result in significant vet bills and heartbreak when the kitten doesn’t survive past a few years.

Click here to check the websites age

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3. Look for BBB Accreditation

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is one of the most trusted resources for verifying legitimate businesses. Checking whether a breeder is a BBB-accredited member can provide valuable insights into their trustworthiness and business longevity. A reputable breeder should have no issue registering with the BBB, as it demonstrates their commitment to ethical practices and transparency.

While Google reviews can offer some information, it’s important to remember that they can be easily faked or manipulated. Relying solely on them might not give you the full picture of a breeder’s credibility.

We’re proud to be a BBB-accredited business with an A+ rating, supported by over 36 years of experience.

If a breeder cannot provide similar credentials or demonstrate their legitimacy, it’s a strong indication to proceed with caution or look elsewhere.

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4. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off, trust your gut and stop communicating with the person immediately. Scammers are often pushy, pressuring you to make a quick purchase. Some may even offer to deliver the kitten directly to your home—don’t accept. Inviting a stranger from the internet to your house can lead to trouble.

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5. Be Wary of Paid Advertisements

Legitimate breeders with long-standing reputations don’t rely on paid advertisements. Their websites and businesses will naturally rank high in search engine results due to their longevity and reputation. Always be skeptical of ads, especially when they involve animals.

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Finding a healthy Persian or Himalayan kitten requires diligence and caution.

Always research breeders thoroughly, verify their credentials, and never rush into a purchase. By following these tips, you can protect yourself from scams and ensure you bring home a happy, healthy kitten.