Buying Guide

Siberian Cat Registration: TICA vs CFA Papers Explained

When you look for a Siberian kitten, you will see "TICA registered" and "CFA registered" everywhere. What does it mean, and why does it matter? Here is a plain-language explanation from a breeder who holds registration with both.

What are TICA and CFA?

TICA (The International Cat Association) and CFA (the Cat Fanciers' Association) are two of the largest cat registries. They keep pedigree records and set breed standards for shows. Siberian Legacy Cats is a TICA and CFA registered cattery, and all our kittens are registered with TICA.

What registration proves

The kitten's parents and ancestors are documented
The breed is verified against a standard
The breeder follows the registry's rules
You can show the cat, if you wish
A pedigree records the cat's lineage

A registered pedigree helps you see how closely related the parents are, which supports healthier breeding choices.

What is an Ethical Breeder certificate?

I also hold an Ethical Breeder certificate with TICA. It shows a commitment to responsible breeding and care. It is not a guarantee about any one cat, but it is a useful signal.

What papers will I receive?

At pickup you will get the vet and health records and your kitten contract. TICA registration is completed after the new owner has the kitten spayed or neutered. Once you send proof, the papers are emailed to you. After your information is submitted to the organization, the registration is mailed out shortly after.

Why wait for spay or neuter?

Pet kittens are sold on a spay and neuter agreement, which keeps breeding in the hands of dedicated breeders. This is common practice with responsible catteries.

Can I breed my kitten?

Breeding rights are considered separately, for the right home. See our breeding rights page or contact us to discuss.

What does "group 1" mean?

Some Siberians are described by group. A group 1 Siberian has no outcross in its pedigree for several generations, so it is the purest form of the breed. Our male Maximus is a group 1 black smoke Siberian with a very rare pedigree. Group 3 cats, such as our queen Dupe, have a little more outcrossing in their ancestry. Both can be wonderful cats and family pets.

Why names look different on the papers

We do not formally name our kittens. Each litter is assigned a letter from A to Z, which helps vets organize their records. Owners then do not pay TICA an extra fee to change the name. You can give your cat any pet name you like.

Checking a breeder's claims

Ask for the parents' registration numbers
Ask whether papers are included in the price
Make sure the contract is written
Ask to see health test results

For more guidance, read how to choose a responsible breeder.

Do I need papers for a pet?

It is not required to love your cat, but it protects you. Papers confirm you have a pedigreed Siberian and allow you to track health history in the future. If you ever want to show your cat, they are essential.

Questions?

Questions to ask about papers

Are both parents registered, and can I see their numbers?
Is registration included in the price?
When will I receive papers?
Do I need to send proof of spay or neuter first?
What name will appear on the registration?

What you do with the papers

Keep them safe with your kitten's vet records. If you move or travel with your cat, they are proof of breed and lineage. If you want to enter shows, you will need them. If you ever need to rehome the cat, the new owner will want them.

Pedigree and health

A pedigree lets a breeder see how closely related two cats are. Keeping inbreeding low is one of the best ways to protect health in a small breed population, which is why I import cats from Europe. Read about it in our breeder checklist.

Quick answers

Is TICA better than CFA?

Neither is better. Both are respected registries, and our kittens are registered with TICA.

Can I register my cat later?

Contact the breeder and the registry as soon as possible. Papers are tied to the spay or neuter agreement.

What if I lose the papers?

Contact the registry, and let us know. We keep our records.

Does registration affect price?

Pedigreed, registered kittens usually cost more than unregistered cats, because of the records and breeding care behind them.

Can I change the name later?

It is best to decide before registering, as changes can involve fees.

You can, but TICA charges an extra fee. Our litter-letter system helps avoid that.

Ready to talk?

Visit our kitten adoption page, join the waitlist or contact us.