Things you need to know about retired cats
Edited by Ruoqi Lin.
August 7, 2025
Where Do Retired Breeding Cats Belong: Staying with the Breeder, or Moving to a New Home?
After retiring all my breeding partners from before 2023 this year, I felt compelled to write something meaningful about these cats. I know some people have misunderstandings about the idea of “retired cats.” To those unfamiliar with breeding, the term may sound distant or even cold. But in truth, these cats were once the most cherished members of the cattery: the foundation of breeding programs, carriers of valuable traits, and sometimes even stars of the show hall.
When they’ve completed their mission, what’s best for them—staying at the cattery or moving on to a quiet, loving home? This question touches not only on the happiness of the cat but also on the conscience and responsibility of every breeder.
Who Are They? Understanding Retired Cats
A retired cat typically refers to a former breeding cat who has been spayed or neutered and no longer participates in a breeding program. This could be due to age, health, personality mismatch, or simply not meeting future breeding goals. In ethical catteries, these cats are never discarded—they're spayed/neutered at an appropriate time, allowed to fully recover, and then carefully evaluated to determine what’s best for their future.
They are not “used-up tools” or “leftovers.” They are family members who have contributed so much, and they deserve respect, dignity, and love.
Staying Is a Continuation; Leaving Is a New Form of Love
“Are you getting rid of them just because they can’t breed anymore?” This is one of the most hurtful and common questions we face. But the truth is quite the opposite.
No responsible breeder sends away a cat they’ve raised and loved for years without careful thought. We thoroughly screen potential adopters, understand their lifestyle, experience, and emotional readiness. We require adoption contracts, updates, and lifelong commitment.
Retired cats are not “unwanted.” They were once the stars of our homes and hearts. Rehoming them is often harder than placing a kitten—because we know them better, we’ve shared years with them, and many of them have slept beside us at night. And yet, we’re still willing to let go—not because we love them less, but because we love them enough to choose what’s best for their future.
Cats are not pack animals. A home where they don’t have to compete for attention, where their life is tailored to their needs, can be far more peaceful and fulfilling than staying in a cattery.
The Hidden Beauty of Adult Cats: They Know How to Love You Better
The Hidden Beauty of Adult Cats: They Know How to Love You Better
Are retired cats affectionate? Can they adjust to a new home like kittens do?
Most people are surprised to find that adult cats often make the best companions. They’re litter-trained, calm, and already used to a structured life. They’re not going to chew wires, scratch sofas, or wake you up with 3 a.m. zoomies.
Even more importantly, their personalities are fully formed—you know exactly what you’re getting. Adult cats often form deeper and more stable emotional bonds. Many of our retired cats have become “tiny shadows” for their new families—following them everywhere, responding to their names, and being even more affectionate and well-mannered than kittens.
And since they are now spayed or neutered, they no longer deal with hormonal stress and are much more relaxed and affectionate. The bond they form with their human is often incredibly deep and enduring.
Who Is the Right Person to Adopt a Retired Cat?
These cats are ideal for people who truly see pets as family members. You don’t need tons of experience—but you do need a stable lifestyle and the willingness to offer love and patience.
Retired cats are perfect for people with regular work schedules or quieter homes. If you're someone who longs for a loving pet but doesn’t have the energy to raise a rambunctious kitten from scratch, they might be your perfect match.
They’re also wonderful for older individuals or families who want a peaceful, devoted companion. Many of our retired cats have become emotional anchors in their new homes—bringing calm, presence, and quiet joy.
Why Do We Charge a Fee for Retired Cats?
“But if they’re retired, why aren’t they free? Isn’t this just rehoming?”
This question reflects a misunderstanding of both responsibility and value.
We do not charge a fee to “make money.” We do it to ensure that the person adopting them is serious and committed. Unfortunately, animals given away for free are often devalued or easily discarded, because the adopter didn’t invest anything to get them—and therefore feels no guilt when they walk away.
No ethical breeder wants to see that happen. If someone truly cares and is ready to cherish the cat as family, they will understand this intent. They’re not paying for a “used cat”—they are stepping into a chapter of trust, responsibility, and love.
A Gentle Goodbye, A Promise for Life
If you don’t need the experience of raising a kitten from day one…
If what you care about most is the bond between you and your cat, not the “puppy love” phase…
Then I sincerely encourage you to consider a retired cat. This isn’t a compromise—it’s a blessing.
They’ve already outgrown the chaos of kittenhood. They’re ready for a life of warmth, quiet companionship, and deep connection. They’re not wild spirits anymore—they are wise hearts waiting to love someone new.
At our cattery, no retired cat is ever sent away lightly. Every decision is thoughtful, every farewell is gentle, and every new home is a wish for lifelong joy.
We walk part of their journey with them—and we proudly hand them over to the arms that will love them just as much as we have.
That is our final promise to every cat we’ve ever raised.
❤ All photos are from the families of our retired cats ❤
