How to Spot Cat Scams Online
Over the years, I’ve met more than a few families who sent money for a kitten on social media and never heard from the later deleted page again. They weren’t just nervous first-time kitten buyers. They were people who had already been scammed, sometimes twice, before finding a legitimate breeder.
The common denominator? Each time, they had been pulled in by the promise of a “cute kitten to good to be true deal.” Rare-colored kittens at unbelievable prices, flashy ads that sounded perfect, deposits that vanished into thin air.
The truth is, there are no real bargains when it comes to cats. Kittens are not clearance items. You usually get what you pay for. If you want a companion with fewer health risks, a good temperament, and the proper socialization to thrive in your home, you need an ethical breeder who takes the time to raise them right.
Here’s the real question: do you want to invite a little soul into your home—possibly for the next 15 to 20 years—without knowing that they were cared for, handled daily, and given the best start? That’s not a deal. That’s a risk. And too many families have learned the hard way.
That’s why I’m sharing what I’ve seen, and how you can tell the difference between a scam and a breeder who truly has your kitten’s best interests at heart.
What Exactly Is a Cat Scam?
A cat scam happens when someone pretends to be a breeder but does not actually have kittens. Scammers usually steal photos from legitimate breeders and post them on fake websites, social media, or online ads. They lure people in with low prices, rare colors, and promises of quick shipping. Once they get your deposit, they disappear—or keep inventing new “fees” until you realize the kitten is never coming.
👉 According to the Better Business Bureau, pet scams are among the most common online frauds, with thousands of families affected each year.
Signs of a Cat Scam
How do you know if a kitten listing is real or fake? Here are the most common warning signs:
- No Website or a Generic One
Real breeders invest in their websites. It may not be fancy, but it will have real photos, information about their cats, details about their program, and clear contact options. Scammers often use cheap, template sites—or none at all. - No Social Media History
Breeders with a history will have posts going back months or years: litter updates, behind-the-scenes photos, and families who have adopted before. A scam page often looks “too new” or has just a handful of generic posts. 👉 Tip: Look for tagged posts from real families. If no one has interacted publicly, be cautious. - Stolen Photos
If you see the same kitten photo on multiple sites, it’s probably stolen. Run a reverse image search on Google to check. - Prices That Are Too Good to Be True
Ethical breeders cannot raise healthy, well-socialized kittens for a few hundred dollars. A Ragdoll or Maine Coon kitten listed for $400 with free shipping is almost certainly a scam. - Pressure to Send Money Quickly
Scammers often claim “Only one kitten left!” or “Another buyer is about to send a deposit.” They want you to act fast. A real breeder will give you time, answer questions, and often provide video calls. - No Video or Real-Time Proof
If they refuse to FaceTime, Zoom, or send a personalized video of the kitten, it’s a huge red flag. Real breeders love showing their cats.
👉 For more red flags, see the Federal Trade Commission’s guide on pet scams.
What is the price of pedigreed kittens in 2025?
Here’s what some of the most popular cat breeds are running for in 2025. These ranges reflect average prices from reputable breeders, with show quality or rare colors often costing more:
| Cat Breed | Average Price Range (USD) 2025 |
|---|---|
| Maine Coon | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Ragdoll | $1,800 – $4,000 |
| Persian | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| British Shorthair | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Scottish Fold | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Sphynx | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Bengal | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Siberian | $1,800 – $3,500 |
| Abyssinian | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| Exotic Shorthair | $1,500 – $3,000 |
If you want to research the price of specific breeds these posts will be helpful.
How to Protect Yourself
Here are ways to confirm the kitten—and the breeder—are real:
- Check the Website: Look for clear details, proper spelling, and real breeder information.
- Verify Social Media: Scroll back to see history and family interactions.
- Ask Questions: Real breeders welcome your questions about health testing, socialization, and temperament.
- Request Video Proof: Ask for a video of the kitten with today’s date or your name on paper.
- Check Reviews: Search Google, Facebook, or Yelp. Ask for references from past buyers.
- Confirm Health Testing: Responsible breeders test for genetic conditions. Ask for documentation.
👉 The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) and The International Cat Association (TICA) both have guides on finding a responsible breeder.
Why Ethical Cat Breeders Are Different
Scammers can fake a photo, but they can’t fake authenticity. Real breeders are proud of their cats and transparent about their process. They show their parent cats, explain their methods, and often share updates from families who have adopted before.
They don’t just sell kittens—they build relationships.
The Emotional Cost of Cat Scams
Yes, losing money hurts. But what most families mention first is the heartbreak. They had already picked a name. They had already pictured the kitten on their couch. Learning that the kitten never existed leaves a lasting sting.
That’s why spreading awareness is so important. Protecting your wallet matters, but protecting your heart matters even more.
👉 For more on the real costs of pet ownership, see the ASPCA’s pet care cost guide.
Facebook Cat Scams: Why you should be careful.
I hear about this all the time: a “teacup” Ragdoll or British Shorthair listed in a Facebook group for $200. The ad feels urgent—“Must rehome today!”—and before you know it, the scammer is asking for Zelle or CashApp.
Here’s the truth: most legitimate breeders do not sell kittens through Facebook Marketplace or random groups. While many share updates on their business pages, the actual adoption process happens through websites, calls, and applications. Never through a rushed DM.
Red flags on Facebook include:
- New profiles with no website to back it up.
- Photos that look fake or appear elsewhere online.
- Refusal to video call.
- Pressure to pay immediately.
How to protect yourself from online scams? Don’t send money to random to good to be true deals on the internet. Learn more about protecting yourself online here.
Final Thoughts: How to Tell if the Kitten Is Real
If you’re searching for a kitten online, remember:
- Check the breeder’s website. Many social media only pages are scams.
- Be cautious of anyone pushing for fast payment.
- Look for video/ photo proof and ask detailed questions.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels off, walk away.
Finding your kitten should feel exciting, not stressful. Once you know how to spot scams, you’ll be able to focus on the joy of welcoming your new family member.
FAQs About Cat Scams
How can I tell if a breeder is real?
Look for a professional website, social media, and families who have adopted before. Scammers often use recycled stock photos and vague descriptions.
What are the biggest red flags?
Pressure to send money fast, vague answers, and prices that seem “too good to be true.”
Is it normal for breeders to ask for a deposit?
Yes. but only after you’ve talked to them about future kittens, and feel comfortable.
Why are some kittens advertised so cheap?
Because the seller is either a scammer or cutting corners. Ethical breeders invest in health, socialization, and care. Those kittens will never be cheap.
What if I’ve already been scammed?
You’re not alone. Report it to the FTC and your state’s consumer protection office. Then take your time finding a breeder who is transparent and trustworthy.
Ready to bring home a luxury kitten from a breeder you can trust? At Almonte Cats, we specialize in healthy, well-socialized kittens from the world’s most beloved breeds. Each one is raised with care and prepared to become the heart of your home. Explore our available kittens here.
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