VIC Purebred cat purchased from breeder with ongoing health issues

[Birgit C.]

Hello,

I bought a purebred cat about a year ago from a reputable breeder in Victoria. In that one year I have spent thousands on his vet care because his health is very poor - starting from hernia repair work (initial surgery organised by the breeder during desexing), severe dental issues, which are not normal for a cat this young (my vet advised he needs to have a dental clean every six months, which is not covered by pet insurance) and skin inflammation and lethargy due to allergies.

I have contacted the breeder and let them know and they said their cats are healthy and it has never happened before.

To me it’s seems something has gone wrong genetically while breeding and I am wondering if there’s anything in the consumer law to cover this? I feel like the breeder should have some sort of liability in this case.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Paul Cott]

Hi Birgit,

You could take the case to vcat. The issue here in very brief summary is did the breeder know or should they have known of the health issues that were perhaps below the surface. A report from one of the vets you have taken the cat to may help at some stage. Conversely, the breeder may say you took the cat 'as is' if you didn't get a vet check when you bought the cat. The breeder may have put a disclaimer in to some of the paperwork when you bought the cat, that could be relevant.