PEDIGREE

A pedigree refers to the documented ancestry of an individual animal, usually

issued by a recognised governing body.

Key points:

• It is a certificate or registration paper, not a breeder type.

• Shows several generations of lineage (parents, grandparents, etc.).

• Issued by a recognised registry (e.g. ACF, CCCofA, Cats Australia, ANCATS).

• Confirms the animal’s breed, registration number, and ancestry.

• A pedigree animal is traceable, verifiable, and accountable.

An animal can only be called pedigree if it is registered and documented. 

PUREBRED

Purebred describes an animal that is believed or claimed to be of one breed: but may or may not have documentation.

Key points:

• Describes type, not proof.

• May be based on appearance or breeder claims.

• Does not automatically mean registered.

• Cannot be independently verified without papers.

 A cat can look and be genetically pure, but without registration it is not pedigree.

PEDIGREE BREEDER VS “PUREBRED BREEDER”

This is where the distinction really matters.

PEDIGREE BREEDER

• Breeds registered cats only.

• Works under a recognised governing body.

• Follows breed standards, ethics, and codes of conduct.

• Registers litters and provides pedigree papers.

• Health tests and tracks lineage.

• Accountable to a governing organisation.

 “PUREBRED” BREEDER

• May breed cats that look like a breed.

• Often does not register cats.

• No verifiable lineage.

• May avoid club oversight or regulations.

• The term is unregulated and loosely used.

 WHY THIS MATTERS

• Pedigree breeding protects breed integrity.

• Allows tracking of health issues and genetic diversity.

• Provides consumer protection for buyers.

• Ensures ethical standards and accountability.

Prevents misrepresentation and backyard breeding.

IN CONCLUSION:

Pedigree = documented, registered, verifiable

Purebred = claimed type, not proven