Bringing a new kitten into your home is a big step. You are adding a new member to your family, one that will bring you joy and companionship. The search for a kitten often starts online, with phrases like “kittens for sale Spokane.” This search can show you many choices, and it is important to know what you are looking for. Are you hoping to find a playful tabby, a fluffy, long-haired cat, or maybe a specific breed like a Maine Coon?
When you look for a new kitten, you want to find one that is healthy and happy. A good start in life makes a big difference for a cat. This means you should think about where the kitten comes from. Is it from a place that takes good care of its animals? Do the kittens seem active and well-fed? These are important questions to ask yourself. The journey to finding the perfect kitten should be a careful one. It is not just about finding a cute face; it is about finding a new friend who will be with you for many years. This guide will help you understand your options in the Spokane area and what to look for in your search.
Top 7 Places to Find Kittens for Sale in and Around Spokane
Finding the right place to get your kitten is the first big decision you will make. In and around Spokane, you have several good options, from local shelters to specialized breeders. Shelters are a great choice for giving a home to a cat in need, while breeders can offer you a specific type of cat, like a Maine Coon. Here is a list to help you start your search.
1. SpokAnimal C.A.R.E.
If you are looking to give a deserving cat a second chance, SpokAnimal C.A.R.E. is a place you should consider. This organization is a central part of animal welfare in the Spokane community, providing shelter and care for homeless animals. When you adopt from them, you are not just getting a pet; you are supporting a non-profit that works to protect animals. They often have a variety of kittens available, especially during “kitten season” in the warmer months. These kittens come from many backgrounds so that you can find a mix of different looks and personalities.
When you visit SpokAnimal, you will find that the staff and volunteers are dedicated to the well-being of their cats. They can give you information on a kitten’s history and temperament, which helps you make a good choice for your household. The adoption process is straightforward and focused on making sure each kitten goes to a safe and loving home. You can feel good knowing that your new kitten has received a health check and initial vaccinations and has been spayed or neutered. This takes some of the initial veterinary worries off your plate.
Features:
- A wide variety of kittens to choose from.
- Knowledgeable staff and volunteers.
- A focus on animal welfare and rescue.
- The adoption fee includes initial medical care.
- You are supporting a local non-profit.
Pros:
- You are saving a life.
- The cost is much lower than buying from a breeder.
- Kittens are usually already socialized with people.
- The adoption process is thorough.
- You can often find short-haired and long-haired kittens.
Cons:
- The kitten’s full genetic history may be unknown.
- Purebred kittens are rare.
2. Partners for Pets
Partners for Pets is another excellent resource for finding a kitten in the Spokane area. They are known for their commitment to rescuing animals and placing them in forever homes. What makes them stand out is their network of foster homes. Many of their kittens are raised in a home environment, not a shelter. This means the kittens are already used to the sights and sounds of a typical house, which can make their transition to your home much smoother. You get a kitten that has been loved and cared for in a family setting from a young age.
When you look at the kittens available through Partners for Pets, you will see that they often have detailed descriptions of their personalities. This is because the foster families get to know each kitten individually. They can tell you if a kitten is playful, cuddly, or more independent. This personal insight is very valuable when you are trying to find a cat that fits your lifestyle. Like other rescue organizations, their adoption fees cover important medical services, ensuring your new pet is healthy from the start.
Features:
- Many kittens are raised in foster homes.
- Detailed personality descriptions are often available.
- A strong focus on rescue and rehoming.
- Adoption events are held regularly.
- They partner with local pet stores for visibility.
Pros:
- Kittens are well-socialized in a home setting.
- You get a good understanding of the kitten’s personality.
- Adoption fees are affordable.
- You are supporting a valuable community service.
- The process is focused on finding the right match.
Cons:
- You may need to schedule a meeting with the foster family.
- Specific breeds are not guaranteed.
3. Regal Lane Maine Coons (Yelm, WA)
If your heart is set on a Maine Coon, you may need to look outside of Spokane to find a reputable breeder. Regal Lane Maine Coons, located in Yelm, Washington, is a cattery that specializes in these “gentle giants.” Even though it is a few hours’ drive, making the trip for a well-bred kitten is worth it for many families. Regal Lane focuses on raising healthy and well-socialized Maine Coons. They are a TICA-registered cattery, which means they follow certain standards for breeding.
When you contact a breeder like Regal Lane, you should be prepared for a process that is different from a shelter adoption. They are very invested in where their kittens go and will likely have many questions for you. They conduct extensive health testing on their breeding cats, including DNA tests and heart screenings, to ensure the health of their kittens. Their kittens are raised in their home, so they are used to being around people and the activities of a household. This breeder provides a health guarantee, which gives you peace of mind.
Features:
- Specializes in Maine Coon cats.
- TICA registered cattery.
- Extensive health testing of parent cats.
- Kittens are raised in a home environment.
- Offers a health guarantee.
Pros:
- You get a purebred kitten with known ancestry.
- Kittens are bred for good temperament and health.
- The breeder can provide lifetime support.
- You can meet the kitten’s parents.
- Kittens are well-socialized from birth.
Cons:
- The cost is significantly higher than adoption.
- You will likely have to travel to pick up your kitten.
- There may be a waiting list for kittens.
4. La Rhae Maine Coons (Near Seattle, WA)
La Rhae Maine Coons is another dedicated breeder you may find in your search for Maine Coons in Washington State. Located closer to the Seattle area, they are a small, in-home cattery focused on the health and socialization of their cats. Being a smaller breeder often means that each kitten gets much individual attention from the very beginning. This helps them grow into confident and loving companions. La Rhae Coons is registered with TICA, and they are passionate about preserving the wonderful qualities of the Maine Coon breed.
When you work with a breeder like this, you can expect a personal experience. They are deeply committed to each kitten for its entire life and are careful about placing them in the right homes. They focus on proper care and diet to ensure the cats are in optimal health. You will likely find they perform health screenings on their breeding cats and can share those results with you. Their kittens are raised underfoot, meaning they are part of the family and are accustomed to daily household life, making them well-adjusted and ready for a new family.
Features:
- Small, in-home cattery.
- Registered with TICA.
- Strong focus on health and a proper diet.
- Kittens are well-socialized with people.
- Committed to the lifelong well-being of their kittens.
Pros:
- Kittens receive a great deal of individual attention.
- A personal relationship with the breeder.
- Focus on breeding for good temperament.
- Health is a top priority.
- Kittens are used to a home environment.
Cons:
- A smaller number of kittens may be available.
- You will need to travel from Spokane.
- There is often a waiting list.
5. Mercer Street Maine Coons (Renton, WA)
Serving the greater Seattle area, including Renton, Mercer Street Maine Coons is a breeder that focuses on producing large, healthy, and beautiful Maine Coons. They often have champion bloodlines from Europe, which they select for health and temperament. If you are looking for a Maine Coon with a striking appearance that also has a friendly personality, this cattery is one to look into. They are registered with both TICA and CFA, two of the most respected cat fancier associations.
This cattery operates in a cage-free environment, ensuring that their cats and kittens are part of the family and are free to roam and play. This is a crucial factor for socialization and development. They are transparent about their breeding practices and are dedicated to matching each kitten with a perfect forever home. You should expect to be asked questions about your home and experience with cats, as they are diligent about their placements. Contacting them to get on a waitlist is often the best approach, as their kittens are in high demand.
Features:
- Utilizes champion European bloodlines.
- Registered with TICA and CFA.
- Operates as a cage-free cattery.
- Kittens are raised in a loving home.
- Focuses on matching kittens to the right family.
Pros:
- Kittens often have a striking, classic Maine Coon look.
- Bred for good health and a gentle nature.
- The breeder is registered with major cat associations.
- Kittens are well-socialized.
- You get a kitten with a known health history.
Cons:
- Premium pricing due to bloodlines and care.
- High demand often means a waiting list.
- Located a significant drive from Spokane.
6. Big River Maine Coons (Washougal, WA)
Located near the Columbia River Gorge in Washougal, Big River Maine Coons is another established breeder in Washington. They have over a decade of experience in breeding Maine Coons and are committed to producing cats that are outstanding in health, temperament, type, and size. They have a particular focus on North American bloodlines, which have a long history of health testing. This cattery has produced many award-winning cats, which speaks to their dedication to the breed standard.
Big River Coon screens their breeding cats for the most common health issues in the breed, such as heart disease and hip dysplasia. This commitment to health is a key reason to choose a reputable breeder. Their website shows a deep appreciation for the breed’s gentle nature and magnificent appearance. When you inquire about a kitten, you will be communicating with people who are not just breeders but true fans of the Maine Coon cat. They can provide valuable information on how to care for your new, large-breed kitten as it grows.
Features:
- Over 10 years of breeding experience.
- Focuses on North American bloodlines.
- Screens for heart disease and hip dysplasia.
- Has produced the award-winning show Cats.
- Located in the scenic Columbia River Gorge area.
Pros:
- Long-standing and reputable breeder.
- Strong emphasis on health screening.
- Deep knowledge of the Maine Coon breed.
- Kittens are bred to meet breed standards.
- You receive a kitten from an experienced source.
Cons:
- The location is not close to Spokane.
- May have fewer litters available.
- Pricing will reflect their experience and reputation.
7. Woodpile Maine Coons (Washington)
Woodpile Maine Coons is a highly respected cattery in Washington that has been involved in showing and breeding for many years. They are known for producing cats that not only conform to the breed standard but are also fantastic pets. They have produced numerous regional and international award-winning cats, a testament to the quality of their breeding program. Their focus is on producing well-adjusted, beautiful cats that are, first and foremost, cherished family members.
This is a cattery that takes health very seriously. Their cats are screened for genetic conditions, and they work with veterinary specialists to ensure their cats are healthy for breeding. The cats on their website are shown with their health clearances listed, which provides great transparency for potential buyers. Kittens from Woodpile are raised to be friendly and social. The breeders are passionate about their cats and will want to ensure you can provide a loving, indoor-only home for one of their kittens. Their experience and dedication make them a top choice.
Features:
- Highly experienced with a history of show-winning cats.
- A strong dedication to producing excellent pets.
- Transparent about health screenings for their cats.
- Kittens are well-socialized.
- International and regional award winners in their lines.
Pros:
- You are getting a kitten from a top-tier breeder.
- Exceptional focus on health and temperament.
- Breeder has a deep understanding of the Maine Coon breed.
- Kittens are raised to be wonderful companions.
- Strong reputation in the cat fancier community.
Cons:
- Likely to be one of the more expensive options.
- A long waiting list is almost certain.
- The breeder will be highly selective about homes.
A Kitten Buyer’s Guide: What to Look For
When you decide to bring a kitten home, whether from a shelter or a breeder, there are several things you should check to make sure you are getting a healthy and happy animal. It is easy to fall in love with a cute face, but a little bit of careful observation can save you from future heartache and expensive vet bills. Knowing the signs of a healthy kitten and a good environment will help you make the best choice for your family.
Health is a Priority
The most important thing to look for is good health. A healthy kitten is active, curious, and playful. While kittens do sleep a lot, they should have periods of energy where they want to play and explore. Look at the kitten’s physical condition closely. Its eyes should be clear, bright, and fully open, with no gunk, crust, or discharge. The nose should be clean and slightly damp, with no mucus or bubbles, and the kitten should not be sneezing repeatedly.
Check the kitten’s ears. They should be clean inside, without any dark specks that could signal ear mites, and they should not have a bad smell. The kitten’s coat should be clean, soft, and free of any dirt, fleas, or bald patches. Run your hands over its body; it should feel well-fed, not skinny or bloated. A healthy kitten will also have a clean rear end with no signs of diarrhea. Ask about the kitten’s vaccinations and deworming schedule. A good shelter or breeder will have already started this process and will provide you with a health record.
Observing Temperament
A kitten’s early experiences shape its adult personality. You want a kitten that has been handled gently and often by people. A well-socialized kitten will be curious about you, not overly fearful. It might be shy at first, but it should not be aggressive or hiss at you. Try to spend some time playing with the kitten. Does it engage with a toy? Does it seem comfortable being picked up and held for a short time?
Watch how the kitten interacts with its littermates. A bit of playful wrestling is normal, but you want to see that it gets along with the other kittens. This is a good sign that it will be able to adapt to a new home, especially if you have other pets. Ask the shelter staff or breeder about the kitten’s personality. They have spent the most time with it and can tell you if it is a lap cat, an adventurer, or a bit of both. Finding a temperament that matches your lifestyle is key to a happy life together.
The Breeder’s or Shelter’s Environment
Whether you are visiting a cattery or a shelter, the place should be clean and well-maintained. It should not smell strongly of cat urine or feces. The living area for the kittens should be spacious enough for them to play and move around freely. There should be clean food and water bowls, as well as clean litter boxes. Overcrowding can lead to stress and the spread of illness, so be wary of any place that seems to have too many animals in a small space.
A responsible breeder will welcome your questions and be happy to show you where the kittens were raised. They should let you meet the mother cat, who should also appear healthy and have a good temperament. Be cautious if a breeder wants to meet you in a parking lot or refuses to let you see their home or cattery. This is a major red flag and could mean they are hiding poor conditions. A good environment is a sign that the kittens have had a healthy and positive start to life.