Home-based pedigree cat breeder

Families and individuals wanting a pedigree pet, plus other breeders or exhibitors looking for show or breeding-quality kittens.

A price per kitten, usually higher for show or breeding quality. Income is lumpy because litters are only a few times a year, and it needs to cover vet care, food, registration and the cost of caring for the adults.

• Good knowledge of cat health, genetics and your chosen breed
• Patience and daily animal care routine
• Screening buyers and clear communication

• Breeder registration, limits on cat numbers and desexing or microchipping rules, which differ by state and council, so check with your local council and state authority
• Rules on advertising kittens, such as needing a breeder or source number in some states, so check before you list any litter
• Vet costs for complications, health testing and emergencies, which can wipe out the profit from a litter
• Public liability insurance and your lease or strata rules if you rent or live in a unit
• Animal welfare duty of care: avoid overbreeding and plan for kittens that don't sell

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the breed, the cats you buy, housing set-up and health testing. Vet costs for complications and emergencies can be significant, so keep a buffer.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $500 to $2,500, depending on how many litters you plan and your breed. Vet bills can wipe out the profit from a litter, and you should plan for kittens that don't sell.

Check breeder registration, limits on cat numbers, and desexing and microchipping rules with your local council and state authority, as these differ by state. Also check advertising rules, such as a breeder or source number, and your lease or strata rules if you rent.