The International Bengal Breeders' Association, Inc.
Cattery of Distinction Minimum Standards1. Cats shall be kept clean and generally groomed.
2. The cattery, whether it is a private residence, a portion of a private residence or a separate structure, shall be structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect the cats from injury, to protect the cats against overexposure to the elements, to contain the cats and to restrict the entrance of other animals.
3. The number of cats in a primary enclosure shall not exceed the number, which would prevent proper ventilation and sanitation. The cattery shall be provided with a source of fresh air by means of windows, doors, or vents and shall be ventilated in a manner that minimizes drafts, odors, and moisture conditions.
4. A primary enclosure shall provide sufficient space to allow each enclosed cat to freely express their unique motor functions such as playing, jumping, running and climbing, as well as accommodate an area for sleeping, eating/drinking and waste. The minimum primary enclosure space for a single cat is 144 cubic feet.
5. A primary enclosure shall be constructed and maintained so that cats have a convenient access to clean food, water and litter.
6. Primary enclosures, the facility and storage spaces shall be cleaned with appropriate disinfectants as often as is necessary to keep them free of dirt, debris and harmful contamination.
7. The cattery shall be situated to protect the cats from excessive cold and heat to ensures that the cats will not suffer from heat stress or from cold stress.
8. An access to shelter shall be provided for cats to allow them to remain dry at all times.
9. A primary enclosure shall not be constructed or maintained with an exposed wire mesh bottom or any other material that will injure the feet or legs of a cat. (exception: Heavy gage coated wire or plastic grid that is deemed safe by a Licensed Veterinarian).
10. Food shall be handled and stored in a manner that ensures against the introduction of parasites, disease vectors (such as insects) or chemical contaminants. Supplies of dry food shall be stored in an area that is cool, dry, clean and free of vermin and other potential contaminants. Refrigeration shall be provided for supplies of perishable food.
11. The foods shall be free from contamination and shall be wholesome, and of sufficient quantity to meet the normal daily requirements for the condition and size of the cat. Food shall be provided in sufficient amounts to ensure normal growth in kittens and maintenance of normal body weight in adults.
a. Cats shall be fed at least once each day except as otherwise required by a veterinarian.12. Food receptacles shall be accessible to all cats and shall be located to prevent contamination. Feeding dishes shall be kept clean.13. Easily accessible litter pans shall be provided for all cats at all times.
14. The cattery facility shall be kept clean and remain free of an accumulation of debris and excreta.
15. Feces and soiled litter material shall be removed from all litter pans on a regular basis in order to maintain a relatively clean litter pan so that the cat(s) have at least 75% unsoiled area for use.
16. All accessory equipment, such as feeding bowls and watering devices, shall be washed and sanitized frequently to keep them clean and free from contamination.
17. An effective program for the control of insects shall be established and maintained using animal safe products.
18. The Cattery shall promptly provide medical care to any cat-in-distress and/or any cat exhibiting signs of severe illness.
19. Cats shall be observed daily and diseased cats shall promptly be provided with medical care.
20. A vaccination program is recommended with well-documented records kept on each cat.
21. Birthing and kitten area to be isolated from the main populations of cats.
22. An isolation or quarantine area and plan should be provided for all new cat(s) added to the cattery.