Pet Only: The kitten/cat is sold strictly as a pet-only companion and will not be used for breeding.

Rehoming Clause: If the Adopter can no longer keep the cat at any time, SMMC must be contacted first. The cat may not be surrendered to a shelter, rescue, or laboratory.

Veterinary Costs: After transfer, all routine and emergency veterinary costs are the responsibility of the Adopter.

No Size or Temperament Guarantee: SMMC cannot guarantee adult size, final appearance, or personality. Genetics and temperament are influenced by environment, training, and care.

Non-Refund Policy with Genetic Replacement Guarantee: All payments made toward the kitten are non-refundable. However, the kitten is covered by SMMC’s genetic/congenital health guarantee (see Health & Veterinary Care section) for a specific period for qualifying conditions.

Initial Veterinary Visit & Ongoing Care

Adopter agrees to schedule an initial wellness exam with a licensed veterinarian within the timeframe specified in the full written contract (often within a few days of going home) and to maintain regular veterinary care thereafter.

Vaccinations & Parasite Control

Adopter will keep the kitten current on core vaccinations and appropriate parasite prevention as recommended by their veterinarian. Over-vaccination is discouraged; discuss protocols with your vet and follow local laws.

Rabies & Local Laws

Adopter agrees to comply with all local regulations regarding rabies vaccination and licensing, where applicable.

Emergency Care

In the event of illness or injury, Adopter will seek prompt veterinary care and follow professional medical advice in the best interest of the cat.

Health Records & Genetic Guarantee

SMMC will provide a copy of the kitten’s health and vaccination records at the time of transfer. The genetic health guarantee covers specific congenital or hereditary conditions for a defined period (as described in the full contract). If a qualifying condition is diagnosed, SMMC’s remedy is typically limited to a replacement kitten; refunds are not provided.

This kitten is being placed as a pet-only. The Adopter agrees that the kitten will be spayed/neutered by the deadline stated in the full contract and will provide proof of surgery from a licensed veterinarian if requested by SMMC.

The kitten/cat, or any offspring from this kitten/cat, may not be registered with any cat association or represented as breeding stock. Breeding the cat in violation of this agreement constitutes a breach of contract and may result in legal action and/or liquidated damages as outlined in the full contract.

The cat will be kept as an indoor-only companion. Supervised outdoor time on a leash, in a secure catio, or in a fully enclosed outdoor area is acceptable if safe and predator-proof.

Adopter agrees to provide a safe environment free from known hazards (toxic plants, open windows without screens, unsupervised access to dogs that may harm the cat, etc.).

No Declawing: Adopter agrees not to declaw the cat (including laser or tendonectomy procedures). Declawing is considered a violation of this contract.

Any other elective surgical alterations must be discussed with a veterinarian and should be in the best interest of the cat’s health and welfare.

Adopter agrees to provide a high-quality diet appropriate for Maine Coon kittens and adults, fresh water at all times, regular grooming, and a clean, enriched environment with scratching posts, toys, and safe climbing options.

The cat will not be subjected to neglect, abuse, or conditions that compromise its physical or emotional well-being.

If at any point the Adopter can no longer keep the cat, SMMC must be notified first. SMMC may choose to:

• Assist in screening a new home, or
• Take the cat back into the cattery’s care, as space allows.

The cat may not be surrendered to an animal shelter, rescue, pet store, or research facility. A transfer of ownership without SMMC’s knowledge and consent is considered a breach of contract.

Registration papers may be withheld or marked “not for breeding” if contract terms are violated.

SMMC reserves the right to check in on the welfare of the cat and may request updates from time to time. Adopter is encouraged (but not required) to send photos and updates.

With Adopter’s permission, SMMC may share photos and updates on the cattery website or social media to celebrate past kittens and their families.

This contract is governed by the laws of the state in which Smoky Mountain Maine Coons is located (typically Tennessee, USA). Any legal disputes will be handled in the appropriate court for that jurisdiction, unless otherwise stated in the full written contract.

Deposits & Payments Received

Deposits and payments are generally non-refundable, except as outlined in the genetic health guarantee or in the case that SMMC must cancel the sale.

By signing below, the Adopter(s) acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to abide by all terms of this Pet-Only Adoption Contract. The Breeder warrants that all information provided about the kitten is true to the best of their knowledge.

A fully completed and signed copy of this contract will be provided to the Adopter and kept on file with Smoky Mountain Maine Coons.