Registered cattery with dedicated space

Pet buyers, show exhibitors and other breeders looking for kittens from proven, health-tested lines.

Kitten sales across a few litters from several queens, with higher prices for show and breeding prospects. Some breeders add income from stud service. Costs include vet care, food, litter, show fees and travel.

• Experience with cats and kittening
• Knowing breed standards and genetics
• Marketing through a website and social media
• Organizing a clean, well-run daily routine

• Zoning, kennel or cattery permits and inspections, which vary by county and city, so verify before you build
• Some states license or regulate commercial pet breeders, so check your state's rules and the thresholds that apply
• Building or converting a cattery with runs, quarantine space and good ventilation can be a major cost, plus the price of quality breeding cats and health testing, so get quotes first
• Infectious disease risk across a multi-cat household, with vet protocols for vaccines and quarantine
• Income is uneven and it takes time to build a reputation, so don't depend on it right away
• Business insurance covering animals and visitors, plus a clear contract and health guarantee
• Check with a tax professional on sales tax rules and whether to form an LLC

Startup costs are typically around $20,000 to $90,000, depending on whether you build or convert space, plus the price of quality breeding cats and health testing. Get quotes for runs, quarantine space and ventilation first.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how many kittens you sell and the reputation you build. Income is uneven and takes time to develop, so don't depend on it right away.

Check zoning, kennel or cattery permits and inspections with your county and city before you build. Also check whether your state licenses or regulates commercial pet breeders and what thresholds apply, plus insurance and contract needs.