Glossary

Pet quality

A breeder's label for a pedigree kitten sold as a companion, not for showing or breeding, usually with a neutering agreement.

Also called: pet-quality kitten, pet grade, show quality, breeding quality

Pet quality is a term used by breeders for a kitten that is sold as a companion animal. The kitten is usually healthy and of the breed, but it may differ slightly from the breed standard, for example with a small white patch, a colour that is not accepted, or a tail or ear shape that would lose points in the ring. A show-quality kitten is judged to match the standard closely, and a breeding-quality kitten is sold to a home that will breed responsibly.

Pet-quality kittens are generally sold with a contract that requires spaying or neutering, and the registry papers may be marked limited or non-breeding, which means any offspring cannot be registered. The price is often lower than for show kittens, though that varies.

The label describes looks, not health or character. A pet-quality kitten can be as affectionate and sound as a champion, so do not think of it as second best. Still, ask the same questions about the parents' health tests, vaccination and socialisation as you would for any kitten, read the contract, and see your vet within the first few days. If a breeder gives you no contract or tries to sell a kitten that is too young, consider walking away.

Last reviewed November 7, 2026

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Related terms

Pedigree A cat whose parents, grandparents and earlier ancestors are recorded by a registry, showing it belongs to a recognised breed. Breed standard The written description of the ideal cat of a breed, covering head, body, coat, colour and temperament, used by judges and breeders. Cattery A place where cats are bred, or where they are boarded while their owners are away, depending on the country and context. Cat show An event where cats are judged against the written standard for their breed or, in a household pet class, on condition and temperament. Cat registry An organisation that records cats' ancestry, issues pedigree certificates, defines breed standards and licenses cat shows.

Related guides

How to tell a reputable breeder What to look for and ask when buying a pedigree kitten, which health tests matter, when kittens should leave their mother, and the signs of a scam.