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The GCCF was established as an independent body in 1910, and health and welfare is at the heart of everything we do. A principle aim is to encourage Responsible Breeding of pedigree cats and Responsible Owning of all cats, pedigree or otherwise – that is why we set up the original GCCF Breeder Scheme in 2013, to help us achieve that objective.
Breeders who have signed up to the GCCF Breeder Scheme have shown their commitment to the standards required by the scheme’s code of ethics. Please note that not all GCCF breeders will have signed up to using the scheme; this does not mean that they are not excellent or reputable breeders.
In April 2021, a small review group was set up to look at the Scheme in depth, and how it could be improved and strengthened, and the views of the wider Cat Fancy were surveyed to gain insight into how breeders felt about the original scheme. Following the feedback, the review group decided to seek guidance from Kennel Club on how they set up their scheme, which includes inspection. The review group has since re-written the guidance for the new scheme, for both Members and Assessors, as the scheme will now include inspection of breeders’ premises. Some aspects of the original scheme are kept, including provision of correct paperwork to new kitten owners, immunisation, details of diet, worming regime, copies of any health testing undertaken for the parents of the kitten, and correct breeding records kept. The scheme lays down minimum requirements which must be met such as size of cattery and runs, lighting and heating, and suitable requirements for queens and kittens. A pilot scheme has been running during the second half of 2022, with some current members being assessed to ensure that all aspects of the scheme will work.
The new Scheme launches on 1st January 2023 and it will take time for all of the current members to be assessed; an assessment will be undertaken every three years and so the lead in time will be over three years, with every member being fully assessed by the beginning of 2026.
The code requires breeders to meet various criteria, see documents listed on the right-hand side of this page.
You are advised to make sure you are happy with the environment and way in which the kittens are raised before purchasing. The GCCF cannot take responsibility for the health of any kitten purchased using the Breeder Scheme facility.
When you buy a kitten from a Breeder Scheme breeder you will have the opportunity to tell us what you think of them. We will use this information to make sure our breeders are meeting you and your new cat’s needs.
