We are heartbroken by the stories we hear from families who have lost money and faced distress due to scammers. To help you navigate your search safely, we have compiled a list of red flags and common tactics used by fraudulent sellers.

The Major Red Flags

  • Communication Barriers: If a website has no phone number, offers only a generic contact form, or if the seller refuses to speak by phone, walk away. Scammers often prefer text-only communication and may become irritated if you ask too many questions.

  • Photo Inconsistencies: Scammers usually have very few photos or steal them from other sites. They often cannot provide pictures of the kitten at different stages of development.

  • "Buy Now" Buttons: A reputable breeder wants to know who is adopting their kitten. Avoid sites that treat kittens like e-commerce products with instant checkout buttons.

  • Suspicious Pricing: Raising healthy, pedigreed Maine Coons requires significant investment in food, vet care, and testing. If a price seems "too good to be true" (especially if it includes shipping), it is almost certainly a scam.

Payment & Shipping Scams

  • The "Climate-Controlled Crate" Trap: A common new scam involves asking for more money after you have paid for the kitten. They may claim the kitten is stuck at an airport and requires a specific (and expensive) temperature-controlled crate or "insurance" fee, often promising a refund upon delivery. Do not fall for this. Airlines have strict rules and use their own climate-controlled compartments; they do not require you to buy special crates mid-transit.

How to Verify a Real Breeder

  • The "FaceTime" Test: Ask to video chat (FaceTime/Zoom) with the breeder and the kitten. Seeing the kitten in real-time is the best proof of existence. Alternatively, ask for a video where the breeder says your name while holding the kitten.

  • Check the Registry: Verify the breeder's registration with major associations like CFA or TICA directly through the association’s office. Scammers often photoshop certificates or claim registration with "dog" associations or non-reputable groups.

How Meowhaus Coons Operates

To ensure your peace of mind, here is exactly how we do business:

  • Transparency: We are happy to talk on the phone! We are transparent and will never hide behind text messages.

  • No Cargo Shipping: We do not cargo ship our kittens. If someone claims to be us and offers to ship a kitten in a crate, they are an impostor. We meet new owners in person.

  • Secure Payment: We do not ask for Western Union or "loaded cash cards."

  • Official Registration: We are proudly registered with the CFA (Cat Fanciers' Association) and The International Cat Association (TICA). We are not associated with the ACA or ACFA.

  • Where to Find Us: We never sell on Craigslist. Our available kittens are listed strictly on our website.