Bengal Breeding

Question
I am hoping to breed my 18 month old Bengal, I was sent the pedigree information when she was a kitten but I am now concerned that she is not registered as I received no forms to send on. Her parents were registered and I was wondering whether it is still possible to register her despite her age.
Having worked as a vet nurse I'm hoping to transfer these skills in setting up as a breeder, however my present Bengal is possibly a little small for her breed, and is therefore only a pet standard rather than show quality, so I am wondering whether this may impair her suitability with some higher quality studs. Any advice will be greatly appreciated for this first timer.

Answer
Hi Sally

Its difficult for me to advise until I know what registry she is registered with.  Normally with the GCCF (UK) the breeder must pass on the 'pink slip' which would tell you how she was registered, i.e. Active Register or Non Active (not for breeding).  This form would also be used to transfer her from the breeder's name to your own, which is essential before you can breed in your name.

If not registered by the breeder, then the breeder should have given you a copy of the mating certificate so that you can register her yourself, but there is a time limit of 2 years old (with GCCF) otherwise special permission has to be granted from the organisation.

You would be best advised to go back to the breeder to check whether she has been registered and whether there is a reason that she is withholding the paperwork - it may be that she intended holding onto this until proof of neutering.  If the breeder is unable to give you a clear indication of a) registration status and b) reason for not breeding, then you may need to take this up with the registry that her parents are registered with.  As you mention, she is possibly a little small so that may be a reason for not breeding from her.  Did you tell the breeder that you were considering breeding?  If the answer is no then this could be why the breeder sold her as a pet and would have possibly considered a different kitten from the litter if she had known your intentions.

If your girl is small I think my best advice would be to look for a breeder who can help you with a larger kitten of really good quality so that you can start your breeding venture off on the right foot.

Regards

Marcia.