THE RSPCA offered advice to animal lovers who want to buy a healthy kitten from breeders.

The suggestions come as upset Swindon cat owner Laura Mutlow spoke to the Adver about a kitten bought from breeders outside of Wiltshire that had a rare and strong strain of feline parvovirus which killed it and five other pets.

An RSPCA spokesman said: “If you choose to buy a kitten from a breeder, make sure that the cats are well looked after. We advise that kittens should be alert and engaged with bright eyes and a sociable nature and that they shouldn’t be removed from their mothers until the eight-nine week mark.

“If you want a pure-bred, choose a breeder carefully and be sure their cats are well looked after. Make sure you see the kitten where it was bred before committing yourself. Like dogs, pure-bred cats can be more prone to health problems.

“A kitten should be sociable and alert with bright eyes no visible health problems. They should stay with their mothers until they are around 8-9 weeks, taking them away earlier than this can lead to behavioural issues.

The animal welfare charity suggested a list of questions that prospective pet owners should ask breeders before purchasing a new kitten. These will help them ensure that their new feline friend is healthy, safe, well looked-after, and used to being around people.

These questions include: Who bred the kitten? Is the litter and the mother healthy? How many litters has the mother had? Have they been wormed? Are they microchipped and vaccinated? Any known disease risks? Where have they been kept and have they met many people?

The charity's spokesman added: “Alternatively, why not consider adopting a kitten? Adopting a kitten is very rewarding for both yourself and your new pet. Consider if rehoming an animal is for you, and if so we’ll make sure your new pet is healthy, vaccinated, wormed, neutered and microchipped.

"The UK is experiencing a cat crisis and our adoption centres are often full. Consider adopting a cat or kitten before buying a kitten from a breeder - you'll find that the affection of a rehomed pet that needed a second chance is all the more rewarding."

For more information on buying and looking after new pets safely and responsibly, visit rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare