Natural rearing is a philosophy centered on providing animals with a lifestyle that mimics nature as closely as possible. For our kittens, this means focusing on their overall health through natural methods while avoiding unnecessary interventions. Instead of vaccinating, we’ll rely on natural immune support to help our kittens thrive. Rest assured, all kittens will still receive thorough health checks from veterinarians to ensure they are in excellent condition before joining their forever families.

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Natural Rearing is a concept where the breeder helps to raise their breeding cats’ kittens as naturally as possible, by following the simple guidelines of nature. Natural rearing includes:

• Feeding a species-appropriate diet—a raw diet consisting of meat, organs, and bones that emulate prey animals consumed in the wild.

• Limiting exposure to noxious chemicals—using alternative flea and tick medications and natural-based cleaners instead of chemical-based ones.

• Limiting vaccinations—understanding the pros and cons of vaccinating, utilizing titer testing when necessary, avoiding over-vaccination, and following state and local laws for required vaccines.

• Letting our mothers raise their kittens—we do not separate kittens early unless necessary for health reasons. They are weaned naturally by their mothers and have access to fresh air and natural sunlight without confinement to cages. (Though we have always done this)

Natural Rearing does not mean we do not:

• Use conventional medicine when necessary.

• Follow laws regarding required vaccinations.

• Treat our cats and kittens for fleas, ticks, parasites, or other health concerns.

• Consult veterinarians when needed.

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What This Means for You

Our transition to natural rearing will not affect the price of our kittens—our focus remains on providing high-quality, healthy companions for loving homes. While our approach is unique, it comes with a host of benefits for both our kittens and their future families.

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Benefits of Natural Rearing

1. Enhanced Immunity: By allowing their immune systems to develop naturally, our kittens build strong defenses against illness, resulting in healthier, more resilient cats.

2. Optimal Health: Natural rearing supports better digestion, balanced growth, and overall vitality through species-appropriate nutrition and reduced chemical exposure.

3. Balanced Temperament: Raised in a diverse, social environment, our kittens are emotionally well-adjusted and ready to bond with their new families. (more on this below)

4. Reduced Allergies and Sensitivities: Kittens raised on a raw diet with minimal exposure to chemicals are less likely to develop food or environmental allergies.

5. Stronger Joints and Bones: A natural diet supports proper skeletal development, reducing the risk of joint issues and bone-related conditions.

6. Longer Lifespan: Studies suggest that naturally reared animals often experience increased longevity and overall well-being throughout their lives.

7. ….and much much more!

 

Our Commitment

We know this approach may raise questions, and we’re here to answer them! Transparency is important to us, and we’re happy to share the details of our practices, explain the benefits, and guide you on how to continue supporting your kitten holistically at home.

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Why We Chose This Path

Our goal has always been to nurture kittens that are thriving, healthy, social, and ready to seamlessly transition into their new homes. By adopting natural rearing practices, we respect their natural instincts and provide the foundation for them to grow into healthy and happy companions. This shift represents a meaningful step toward fostering a more healthier, sustainable and balanced future for our kittens and their new homes.

 

Our Code of Ethics

While we are not yet members, we are incorporating key principles from the Natural Rearing Breeder Connection Code of Ethics into our cattery practices: (Link here: https://www.nrbreeder.com/code-of-ethics)

• We are committed to feeding our cats and kittens a completely raw diet (BARF, SARF) with no cooked, processed, or commercial foods, unless it's absolutely necessary to use another method.

• We do not vaccinate (except where required by law- WA State requires Rabies at 16 weeks.

• We avoid all toxic chemical products, including flea/tick preventatives, household cleaners, etc…

• We breed with care and attention, prioritizing health, temperament, and correct structure.

• We health test our breeding cats for prevalent diseases and can provide copies of all health and genetic clearances to prospective buyers.

• We raise our kittens in our home with extensive human contact, socialization, enrichment, and stimulation.

• We remain available for our kitten families for a lifetime, providing education in Natural Rearing and offering ongoing support.

• We carefully screen each prospective kitten buyer to ensure a suitable home for all our kittens.

• We refuse to sell kittens to commercial facilities, labs, brokers, pet shops, mills, or their agents.

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Bomb Proofing Kittens

In addition to our natural rearing approach, we are excited to announce that we will be following the guidelines of "Bomb Proof Kittens" as written by Meghan Waals with Elysian Bengals. (Link here: https://www.elysianbengals.com/workbooks...)

This program is designed to ensure our kittens develop into confident, well-adjusted companions by exposing them to a variety of positive experiences, sounds, and handling techniques early in life. This socialization process helps our kittens adapt seamlessly to their new homes with minimal stress and maximum resilience. If anyone has met Inkeri in person- she is a result of this program and is my very social "nosey ninny" cat! (We love her)

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We’re grateful for your support as we embark on this journey of natural rearing and look forward to continuing to provide exceptional kittens to loving homes like yours!