Frequently Asked Questions

Pricing · Shipping · Breed · Health · Royal Oriental Policies

If you have a question that isn't covered here, call us at (443) 540-7982 or email RoyalpurebredKittens@gmail.com — we respond within 24 hours.

Pricing & Reservations

What is the price of a Royal Oriental Cattery kitten?

$4,500 flat for every kitten. No surcharges for rare colors. Price includes TICA registration paperwork, DNA panel results on both parents, 1-year genetic guarantee, 2-year HCM guarantee, lifetime breeder support, age-appropriate vaccinations, first vet check, and a kitten care starter packet.

Why $4,500 flat instead of variable pricing?

We charge by quality standard, not color rarity. Every Royal Oriental kitten receives the same care, DNA testing, socialization, and guarantee package.

How much is the deposit?

50% non-refundable deposit ($2,250) reserves your kitten. Remaining $2,250 due 2 weeks before delivery, or at pickup if you're collecting in person.

What payment methods do you accept?

Bank transfer (preferred for balance), Zelle, PayPal Friends & Family, certified check. For the deposit, credit cards accepted through secure processor (small fee may apply).

Shipping & Pickup

Do you ship nationwide?

Yes. Professional flight nanny delivery anywhere in the continental US for $400-$700 depending on destination.

What's a flight nanny?

A professional pet transporter who accompanies your kitten in flight cabin (never cargo). Picks up from us in person, hands directly to you at destination airport.

Can I pick up in person?

Yes — Westminster, Maryland cattery, about 1 hour northwest of Baltimore, 1.5 hours from DC. Best experience: meet parents, see cattery environment.

International shipping?

USA and Canada only at this time. International requires significant additional vet paperwork and import permits.

About the Breed

How long do Oriental Shorthairs live?

Per TICA: 10+ years minimum, "have been known to live 20+ years." Most well-bred Orientals live 15-20+ years with reasonable veterinary care.

Are Oriental Shorthairs really vocal?

Yes. They inherited the Siamese family's vocal range — meows, chirps, trills, yowls. If silence is highly valued in your home, may not be the right breed.

Are Oriental Shorthairs hypoallergenic?

No cat is truly hypoallergenic. Orientals have short coats with minimal undercoat — many allergy sufferers tolerate better than heavy-shedding breeds. Visit in person first if you have allergies.

Will an Oriental get along with my dog?

Most likely yes with cat-friendly breeds (Cavalier King Charles, Pug, Beagle, Golden Retriever) introduced gradually. Orientals are confident — they don't typically panic from dogs.

Can I leave one alone all day?

Yes for 8-10 hour workdays with enriched environment (cat trees, toys, window perches). NOT recommended for multi-day trips alone — they need human interaction.

One Oriental or two?

Both work. Orientals can thrive solo with adequate daily attention. Pairs (especially littermates) play together and reduce loneliness when you're at work.

281 colors — really?

Yes. TICA officially recognizes 281 distinct color and pattern combinations for Oriental Shorthairs. See our complete 281 colors guide.

Health & Genetics

What health issues do Oriental Shorthairs have?

TICA documents two main concerns: amyloidosis (no DNA test available) and anesthesia sensitivity (manageable with breed-aware vet protocols). Otherwise generally healthy. See our Health page.

Do you DNA-test breeding cats?

Yes. Every breeding cat receives a full DNA panel before producing any litter — PRA, PKD, recessive disorders, color verification, parentage.

What's the HCM guarantee?

2-year guarantee. If a board-certified veterinary cardiologist diagnoses HCM within 24 months of go-home, we provide replacement or refund per contract.

What's the 1-year genetic guarantee?

If your kitten is diagnosed with congenital or genetic disease within 12 months of go-home, we work with you on replacement of equivalent value OR refund.

Do I need pet insurance?

Strongly recommended within 14 days of go-home. Our guarantees cover specific genetic/HCM conditions; insurance covers everything else.

Care

How often should I groom?

Per TICA: comb every couple of weeks with a stainless steel comb. Weekly nail trim, weekly eyes/ears, regular tooth brushing with vet toothpaste.

What should I feed?

TICA recommends canned (wet) food primary. Kittens 3-4x daily, adults 2x daily. We send food samples and brand info home with each kitten.

Water bowl placement?

TICA: at least 3 feet from food. Cats avoid drinking near food sources instinctively. Many owners see 30-50% increased water intake after moving the bowl.

Indoor only?

Strongly recommended. Outdoor risks include theft, predators, cars, disease. Use leash/harness or build a catio for outdoor experience.

Our Cattery & Process

Who runs Royal Oriental Cattery?

Aleks and Ekaterina Sablin, Westminster, Maryland. Family-owned, 4 TICA cattery brands under Royal Purebred Kittens LLC.

How do I apply?

Fill out the form on our home page. We respond within 24 hours.

Waiting list length?

3 kittens available immediately from December 2025 litter. Future litters open for reservation 8-10 weeks before delivery.

Can I visit?

Yes after initial phone conversation and approved application. By appointment to minimize stress on cats.

What if my kitten doesn't work out?

Contact us first. We always take a Royal Oriental kitten back rather than have them go to a shelter.

Still Have Questions?

We respond personally within 24 hours. Call, email, or apply online.

Apply Now Call (443) 540-7982
📞 Call (443) 540-7982