What should a cat breeder be called? - briefly
A cat breeder is typically referred to as a "breeder" or "cattery owner." These terms reflect their responsibility for maintaining and improving specific feline lineages.
What should a cat breeder be called? - in detail
The term "cat breeder" is often used to describe individuals who are involved in the selective mating of cats to produce specific traits or characteristics within a breed. However, the nomenclature for those engaged in this specialized field can vary depending on their level of expertise, involvement, and recognition within the cat fancy community.
A novice or hobbyist breeder might be referred to simply as a "breeder" or "cat breeder." These individuals may have a small-scale operation and are typically not recognized by major cat registries. Their primary goal is often to produce cats for companionship rather than for show or specific genetic traits.
As the breeder gains more experience and recognition, they might be called a "registered breeder" or "cattery owner." This title implies that their cattery (a place where cats are bred) is registered with one or more cat registries such as The International Cat Association (TICA), Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA), or the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF). Registered breeders are held to higher standards in terms of care, ethics, and record-keeping.
For those who have achieved a significant level of success and recognition within the cat fancy community, the term "master breeder" or "distinguished breeder" might be used. These individuals often have extensive knowledge of genetics, feline health, and breed standards. They are typically recognized for their contributions to the development and improvement of specific cat breeds.
In addition to these formal titles, there are also various informal terms that can be used to describe those involved in cat breeding. For instance, someone who is passionate about a particular breed might be referred to as a "breed enthusiast" or "breed specialist." These individuals may not actively breed cats but have a deep knowledge of the breed and often support and promote it within the cat fancy community.
In summary, the appropriate term for a cat breeder can depend on their level of experience, recognition, and involvement in the field. While "cat breeder" is a general term that applies to most individuals engaged in this activity, more specific titles such as "registered breeder," "cattery owner," or even "master breeder" can provide additional context and indicate a higher degree of expertise and achievement.