(This information came from Lynn)

Most Persian breeders have had experiences with Ringworm. It can be very difficult to clear a cattery once it has infected the environment. However, it is completely curable with no risk to human or cat. Ringworm is rarely contageous to people but very easy to treat.

Breeders recommend the following treatment for a cat with ringworm:

• Isolate the infected cat from any other cats until all visible symptoms disappear (usually 1-3 weeks).
• Bathe the cat everyday with an anti-fungal shampoo and follow with a lym dip.
• Treat the cat with an oral medication, such as Fulvicin. (Note: Fulvicin can be hard on the liver if overdosed and given for a long period of time.)
• Give the microsporum canis vaccine -it requires 3 injections.

(This information came from Andee)

Here are some tips and thoughts to share with anyone who is considering breeding their Persian or Himalayan:

• Make sure you know the PKD status of your kitty.
• Make sure her vaccinations are all up to date. You cannot vaccinate a pregnant cat without endangering the kittens.
• Study the 4-5 generation pedigree on your female and the male with which you plan to breed her.
• Try to find photos of the ancestors listed on the pedigrees.
• Talk to people who are using the same lines you are using or considering using. Discover what they feel are the weak/strong points.
• Read everything about cats and your chosen breed.
• Request from the CFA the show standard on your breed. Compare your cats to this standard. Breed to meet or better the standard. Why breed for pets on purpose?
• Love your kitties. Whether they are Grand Champions or pet quality, all deserve our love, devotion, and protection.
• Alter your pet-quality kitties BEFORE you sell them. Protect your breed.

(This information came from Sam)

1. The plug can burst prior to one week before the birth of the kittens. (This may cause premature babies but usually not.) You need to watch for this carefully to ensure that you will be around when the cat gives birth.
2. If one of the kittens is very week, keep it on a heating pad wrapped in towels. Keep massaging the baby as much as possible, stroking it gently.
3. If it seems like all the kittens have been born, remember there may be one last addition. A cat can give birth for up to 8-hour intervals.
4. If you have tried everything, be ready and willing to let the kitten go. Sadly enough, these things happen sometimes.
5. Ensure that the remaining kittens are suckling the milk and their stomachs are showing signs of being full.
6. Do not give the weak kitten too much milk....in a bottle. It can collapse the lungs of the kitten, and he/she will pass away gasping with air. Use the eye dropper or the ear dropper and put very few drops in the mouth. Remember the kitten is weak, and he/she can also choke.
7. Have wonderful friends with whom you can share the experience over the telephone, Internet, or in person.