Steve Crow GCCF Vice Chair The way things use to be – we’ve come a long way in the last 100 years.
GCCF operates a genetic based register. Objects in By-Laws includes: “welfare of cats” and to “improve cat breeding”
Enshrined in our Mission Statement: “to take a strong lead in protecting the welfare of cats……to be a source of advice and guidance on all aspects of cat care, health & welfare, cat genetics and sound responsible breeding practice.”
Not just a registration body, GCCF must lead pro-actively and require the best practice in cat health and breeding practices
Genetics Committee and Veterinary Advisory Committee prominent elements in the structure of the organisation
GCCF has own charity – Cat Welfare Trust – to support research
General Code of Ethics
“Health Comes First”
GCCF General Breeding Policy
Individual breed specific Breeding Policies
Registration Policies and structure of GCCF Register – Full, Supplementary, Reference, Genetic; use of active/non-active status
Strongly promotes concept of viable gene-pools for each breed, agreed out-cross breeds and use DNA and other testing as integral to responsible breeding.
Two of the six aims in GCCF Strategic & Business Plan
List of veterinary defects and with-holding faults in SOPs
To work with veterinary schools, DEFRA, vet labs and other organisations supporting research and promoting cat welfare and responsible breeding practice.
Breeder Scheme launching at end of 2012 to help kitten buying public to make best choice and to warn of dangers of buying from “kitten farmers”
Young Exhibitor Scheme to ensure young cat owners learn all about responsible breeding, showing and cat ownership
Working with insurance partner in developing products that help and support cat breeders who behave responsibly
Rules state that cats not required for breeding should be registered on the Non-Active Register
Full sibling matings and parent off-spring matings cannot be registered on Active Register
Vaccination of all kittens; Vetting-in at all shows with check of vaccination certificates
13 day rule for GCCF licensed shows; Health & Welfare requirements at shows – Section 5, Rules 4 & 5
Certificate of Entirety signed by vet for all stud cats
Queens should not have more than three litters in two year period
Rigorous processes for assessing new breeds applying for recognition Inform, advice and educate breeders and cat owner, provide easy access to latest information on cat genetics, testing and veterinary knowledge.
Publications, use of web-site – consideration currently around how on- line registration process can help promote best breeding practice.
Strongly encourage micro-chipping and DNA/other testing, constantly review which testing should be mandatory for registration on Active
Strongly discourage purchase from pet shows or of unregistered kittens
Investigation and Disciplinary process with penalties where cases proven – fines and bans
Healthy, contented, well socialised cats that are capable of breeding naturally and living a long and active life!