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Is a very cheap cat adoption a red flag for new pet parents?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 20 lbs

Hi I’m new to pets and I was very interested in getting a cat. I’ve researched a bit on breeds and I know which breed I like but I’m confused because some tpsay they are expensive but I’ve found some that are very cheap adoption, is this cause for concern because it doesn’t make sense to me.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 5th, 2018

I would have a cause for concern with a very cheap adoption, unless the cat comes from a reputable organization like the SPCA. A very cheap adoption suggests the cat is coming from a backyard breeder, which typically do not to genetic testing to make sure that heritable diseases are passed from generation to generation. In addition, backyard breeders often keep their animals in very poor conditions, and are more concerned with making money that taking proper care of their animals. I would never trust a very cheap adoption, there is a reason why it's cheap and it's usually not a good reason. You will want to buy a cat from a breeder who has years of experience, does genetic testing on the father and mother, and allows you to see where the animals are kept and raised. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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