Shipping Kittens

Checking with breeders within driving distance can make it possible to visit the kitten before making a final decision. It also lets you and the breeder feel more comfortable. If going outside of this distance, be aware that many breeders will not ship kittens. If shipping is acceptable, the buyer can expect to pay the extra expense. For more information on shipping cats, including an example of shipping costs, refer to an example from Bleustone Birmans.




Birman Colors

Birman kittens are born white, and their colorpoint areas gradually fill in. You can see this happening in the Sealpoint kitten on the previous page..

Birmans come in a variety of colors, although they are only available in the colorpoint pattern with white "mittens and laces". There are 4 colors that are accepted "for show" in all associations. These are sealpoint (dark brown), bluepoint (gray), lilac (light pink-gray) and chocolate. There are "new colors" that are accepted with "full" show status in Europe and all U.S. associations with the exception of CFA (Cat Fanciers Association). CFA is in the process of accepting these new colors, and they are allowed to be shown, but not yet compete for a full set of awards. These "new colors" are red-spectrum (red point, cream point, and tortie-point females), and "lynx-point" (seal,blue,lilac and chocolate tabby point). Kittens with these "new colors" coats may be available as well as traditional color kittens.




Kitten Contracts

Expect to discuss the terms in the kitten contract with the breeder. These documents can be very specific and are breeder dependant. Clauses that pet buyers can expect in all contracts are:
  • Either the kitten must be spayed/altered at a certain age (without having any litters themselves) OR they may leave the breeder's house already having been altered.
  • The kittens will not be declawed.
You may ask breeders for explanations of any of the terms.