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Questions to Ask a Pixie-Bob Breeder Before You Buy (2026)

Finding a reputable Pixie-Bob breeder is the most important decision you'll make as a Pixie-Bob owner. Here's the complete checklist — every question you should ask before committing to a deposit.

Health Screening Questions

HCM Cardiac Screening

Are breeding cats cardiac-screened for HCM via echocardiogram?
Can I see current screening results for both parents?
How frequently do you screen your breeding cats?
What is the cardiac health history of your lines?

HCM is the most significant health concern for Pixie-Bobs. There is no DNA test — echocardiogram screening is the only way to detect it. Any reputable breeder screens annually and will share results readily. See: Pixie-Bob Health Problems

Polydactyly Management

How many toes do the kittens in this litter have?
Have you checked for any nail or joint issues related to extra toes?
What nail care routine do you recommend for polydactyl kittens?

General Health

What vaccinations will the kitten have before going home?
Will the kitten be microchipped before going home?
What health guarantee does the contract include?
What is the process if a kitten develops a genetic condition?

Breeder Practice Questions

Are your cats TICA registered? Can I see the registration papers?
At what age do you release kittens? (12–16 weeks is standard)
Do you require a spay/neuter contract for pet-quality kittens?
Can I visit your cattery in person or see a video call of where kittens are raised?
Do you have a waitlist? How long is it currently?
How many litters do you produce per year?
How long have you been breeding Pixie-Bobs?

Kitten Socialization Questions

How are kittens socialized — exposure to children, dogs, handling, different people, noise?
Are kittens raised underfoot in the home or in a separate cattery space?
Have any kittens been introduced to a harness or carrier?
Which kitten in the litter would you recommend for an active/adventure household?
What is each kitten's individual personality like?

For what to look for in an adventure-suitable kitten, see: Pixie-Bob Cat Temperament and Are Pixie-Bob Cats Good Outdoor Cats?

Red Flags to Watch For

❌ No HCM cardiac screening results
❌ No TICA registration
❌ Kittens available immediately with no waitlist
❌ Kittens released before 12 weeks
❌ Unable or unwilling to show you where kittens are raised
❌ Price significantly below market ($500 or less)
❌ Pressure to decide quickly or pay a deposit before you've asked questions
❌ No health guarantee in the contract

What a Reputable Breeder Will Ask You

A good Pixie-Bob breeder interviews buyers as thoroughly as you interview them. Expect questions about your living situation, experience with cats, other pets, your plans for the cat's lifestyle, and whether you're prepared for a large, active breed. If a breeder asks nothing and just takes your deposit, that's a red flag.

Price Expectations

Pet quality Pixie-Bob kittens from reputable breeders typically run $800–1,500. See: How Much Does a Pixie-Bob Cat Cost?

After You Bring Your Kitten Home

Start harness training early — Pixie-Bobs are cooperative and receptive as kittens. Their dog-like temperament makes training intuitive. See: How to Train a Cat to Wear a Harness and Best Harness for Pixie-Bob Cats. Establish a relationship with a vet familiar with the breed and schedule annual cardiac auscultation from year one.