Hows the search going?
I got Duke from a lady who advertised on a site like the first one you posted (way back). She turned out to be a BYB. We got Duke when he was only 6weeks old (way too young to leave mom!). Well, thats considered animal cruelty, so we called animal control on her. I love Duke and I couldn't even begin to imagine not having him in my life. But I will never again go through this just to save money. Duke had some issues when we first got him too. Find out if your potential breeder is registered with TICA, ACFA or CFA. Go on some siamese specific forums and e-mail lists and ask about the breeder (I can PM them to you if you want). While visiting the cattery is highly recommended, its not 100% necessary. I am adopting a bengal kitten from a breeder in Montana. She's a great breeder per her peers and the registries and breed associations. I've seen pictures of her cats, her cats pedigrees (which are pretty darn good), and she has updated me regularly on my new babies health and temperament. I should note, though, that I paid a whole lot more than $550 for him, but his price is in line with what other reputable breeders charge for a cat of his quality.
I really hate to think of all the cats (like Duke) that are bred by BYBs. I wish I could have taken the whole litter, but I wasn't prepared to spend any more than I had brought for one and she wouldn't budge on that. I regret that now...
Anyway, good luck with your search and keep us posted!
I got Duke from a lady who advertised on a site like the first one you posted (way back). She turned out to be a BYB. We got Duke when he was only 6weeks old (way too young to leave mom!). Well, thats considered animal cruelty, so we called animal control on her. I love Duke and I couldn't even begin to imagine not having him in my life. But I will never again go through this just to save money. Duke had some issues when we first got him too. Find out if your potential breeder is registered with TICA, ACFA or CFA. Go on some siamese specific forums and e-mail lists and ask about the breeder (I can PM them to you if you want). While visiting the cattery is highly recommended, its not 100% necessary. I am adopting a bengal kitten from a breeder in Montana. She's a great breeder per her peers and the registries and breed associations. I've seen pictures of her cats, her cats pedigrees (which are pretty darn good), and she has updated me regularly on my new babies health and temperament. I should note, though, that I paid a whole lot more than $550 for him, but his price is in line with what other reputable breeders charge for a cat of his quality.
I really hate to think of all the cats (like Duke) that are bred by BYBs. I wish I could have taken the whole litter, but I wasn't prepared to spend any more than I had brought for one and she wouldn't budge on that. I regret that now...
Anyway, good luck with your search and keep us posted!