Helpful Information for Future Families
Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear answers about our kittens, breed characteristics, waiting list, selection process, pricing, included care, transportation, health protection, and support after homecoming.
About the Breeds
British Shorthair & British Longhair
What is the difference between a British Shorthair and a British Longhair?
British Shorthairs are known for their sturdy build, round features, and dense plush coats. British Longhairs share the same distinctive British type but have a longer, flowing coat that requires more frequent grooming.
What are British cats usually like?
British Shorthairs and British Longhairs are generally calm, affectionate, and easygoing. Many enjoy staying near their families while remaining comfortable spending time independently. Every kitten still has an individual personality.
Do British Shorthair and British Longhair cats shed?
Yes. Both coat types shed. British Shorthairs benefit from regular brushing, while British Longhairs usually need more frequent combing to remove loose hair and help prevent tangles and mats.
Are British cats hypoallergenic?
No cat breed is completely hypoallergenic. British Shorthairs and British Longhairs can still produce allergens, so families with allergy concerns should spend time around cats and consult an appropriate healthcare professional before making a commitment.
Choosing Your Kitten
Waiting List & Selection
How do I join the BearMary waiting list?
Complete the waiting-list form or contact BearMary by email with your preferred breed, color, coat length, sex, location, approximate timeline, and a short introduction to your family.
How much is the waiting-list deposit, and is it refundable?
The pet waiting-list deposit is CAD 500 and is fully refundable until a kitten is selected and formally reserved. Once you reserve a kitten, the CAD 500 is credited toward the kitten's purchase price.
What preferences does BearMary guarantee?
BearMary will only match you with kittens that meet your selected color and coat-length preferences. A specific sex, litter, or exact timeline cannot be guaranteed.
How does kitten selection work?
Once kittens are old enough to be evaluated, families are contacted in waiting-list order. BearMary discusses kittens that meet the family's selected color and coat-length preferences while also considering personality, placement level, timing, and family fit.
What happens if the right kitten is not available?
You may remain on the waiting list for a future litter rather than choosing a kitten that does not meet your preferences. Waiting time may vary depending on litter plans, kitten development, sex preference, and the number of families ahead of you.
Pricing Information
Pricing, Deposits & Included Care
How are kitten prices determined?
Pricing reflects each kitten's overall breed type, structure, facial expression, and individual quality. Color and coat length alone are not the primary pricing factors. Listed pet prices are in Canadian dollars and include applicable sales tax.
What veterinary care is included with a pet kitten?
Every BearMary pet kitten includes:
- Complete first-year FVRCP vaccination series
- Rabies vaccination
- Microchip
- Spay or neuter surgery
- Routine deworming
- Physical veterinary examination
- Health certificate
What other services are included in the pet kitten price?
Pet kitten pricing also includes applicable sales tax, complimentary breeder delivery within Eastern Canada, complimentary lifetime boarding with BearMary, ongoing consultation and support, and contract-based health protection.
Boarding must be coordinated directly with BearMary and remains subject to availability and current cattery requirements.
How does the reservation payment work?
After a kitten is selected, the reservation payment is 30% of the total purchase price, less the CAD 500 waiting-list deposit already paid.
Does Pet S Level include breeding rights?
No. Pet S kittens are exceptional family companions and are placed spayed or neutered unless BearMary separately approves a breeding-right placement and contract. Breeding placements are selective and priced separately.
Preparing for Home
Health, Socialization & Daily Life
Do pet kittens go home spayed or neutered?
Yes. Spay or neuter surgery is included as part of the standard preparation for BearMary pet kittens before homecoming.
How are BearMary kittens socialized?
Kittens are raised in a home environment with their mother and littermates. They receive regular handling and are introduced gradually to household routines, litter-box use, grooming, and positive interaction with people.
Are BearMary cats raised in cages?
BearMary cats and kittens are raised in a home environment. Temporary separation or secure enclosures may be used when needed for safety, medical recovery, quarantine, introductions, breeding management, or the care of mothers and newborn kittens.
What health protection is included?
Pet placements include a genetic health warranty, HCM coverage, and FIP coverage. Eligibility, terms, conditions, documentation requirements, and available remedies are defined in the applicable BearMary purchase contract.
Travel Arrangements
Delivery, Pickup & Transportation
Is delivery included with my kitten?
Complimentary breeder delivery directly to the family's home is included within Eastern Canada. BearMary coordinates the arrival time, completes the in-home handoff, and allows time for the kitten to begin settling safely before leaving.
What transportation options are available outside Eastern Canada?
Depending on the destination and current availability, families may use personal pickup, airline pet cargo, flight nanny service, border handoff, driver delivery, or carpool arrangements. Third-party transportation fees are quoted separately and may change by route and season.
When will my kitten be ready to go home?
Homecoming timing depends on the kitten's development, veterinary preparation, spay or neuter recovery, documentation, and transportation arrangements. BearMary will confirm the expected date directly with each family.
After Homecoming
Ongoing Support & Contact
What support is available after my kitten comes home?
BearMary remains available for general questions about transition, feeding, grooming, routine care, and wellbeing. Veterinary concerns should always be discussed with a licensed veterinarian.
How does complimentary lifetime boarding work?
BearMary offers complimentary lifetime boarding for BearMary cats. Boarding must be arranged directly in advance and remains subject to space, availability, health requirements, and current cattery policies.
What is the best way to contact BearMary?
Email is the primary contact method. When writing, include your location, preferred breed, color, coat length, approximate timeline, and whether your inquiry is for a pet or breeding placement.
Contact BearMary
Still Have a Question?
Contact BearMary if you need help with the waiting list, kitten preferences, pricing, delivery, or the adoption process.
Start Your Inquiry
Tell us about your family, location, preferred kitten, and approximate timeline.