Hi Guys,

I've been thoroughly researchng Bengals for some time, and am looking towards taking the steps. I've recently encountered a breeder, who I'll leave unnamed, who I can't tell if they're trustworthy.

They have it documented on their website that they are apart of several organisations, including TIBCS, NSWCFA (Australia), TIBBA.

They weren't active on the TIBCS breeder database, so I contacted TIBCS. They have just failed to renew their membership since 2009.

NSWCFA doesn't hold any information, so I'm waiting on feedback from them.

They are not on TIBBA.

I suspect it's more of a case of lack of ability with computers, rather than not genuine, as their website is quite minimal as well.

Google stalking reveals that they have done other sorts of breeding, and run local pet grooming. What sort of questions can I ask to confirm legitimacy?

Thanks

To confirm, NSWCFA came back to me stating that the breeder has been a memeber since 2007, however does not pay for advertising (which is fine by me). Now I guess it's just confirming the health, hopefully the sticky can provide a solid baseline.

Thanks very much for the comprehensive response, junglerose!

I'll give them a call today, as the email responses are slow/non-existant, to ask for me details and potentially organise a visit to assess the things you have raised.

Well, the call was made.

I quereied on the PK and HCM, where neither are checked. As it was stated that they had vaccinations, I confirmed what that included and it was the F3 vaccination, which is quite typical.

Confirmed if there was a contract to review, and there wasn't, so in turn no health insurance of any sort. I queried looking at them, but even so I don't believe it's worth the money and heart investment, without such guarentees.

They're lovely looking kittens, wish them all the best. Back to the drawing board!

EDIT: It is of note that the person did sound genuinely interested in animals, however the overall granularity for care didn't appear to be there.

It sounds like you are doing a great job doing your homework and being selective when choosing a breeder. Props to you, most people aren't and come to regret it. It sounds like your Bengal baby is going to get a good, well-informed mama! :)

Or even a papa! No worries, my haircuit typically leads to gender confusion.

I've put an application in to a visibly reputable breeder. They have been great in their replies in the past to me, however they are few and far between.

Oops! Sorry! A well-informed papa! :)

Good luck!