Sample Agreement for the Sale of Maine Coon Kittens (For Informational Purposes Only) -

Fire Stone Maine Coon Cattery provides this sample agreement for informational purposes. The complete agreement is available for download at the bottom of this page.

We do not provide sales or shipping to countries of the former USSR.

This Official Feline Purchase Agreement (hereinafter referred to as the “Contract”) is made and entered into by and between the Seller and the Buyer for the purpose of protecting the rights and obligations of all parties: the Seller, the Buyer, and the cat.

If there are any problems, questions, or concerns regarding the execution of this Contract, please contact the Seller at catteryfirestone@gmail.com for assistance. The Seller provides guidance to facilitate the cat’s adaptation to its new environment. The Parties acknowledge that adaptation periods may vary for each animal.

MAINE COON CAT PURCHASE CONTRACT

Terms of Contract

1. Signing Procedure

The Buyer confirms reading, understanding, and agreeing to each clause of this Contract by writing the word “Agreed” and signing or initialing (printing the first letters of the first and last name) in the space provided at the end of each clause.

2. Deposit

A deposit of 50% of the cat’s purchase price is required to reserve the cat. The deposit is non-refundable under any circumstances, including but not limited to the Buyer’s change of mind, financial hardship, allergy discovery, or any other personal reasons. The deposit is considered as compensation for the cat’s care, reserved time, and lost opportunities to sell it.

3. Payment

The Buyer is obliged to make a deposit or full payment provided for in this Contract via SWIFT, Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, transfer to a card (Visa, MasterCard), SendNomad, PaySend, Golden Crown, Western Union, MoneyGram, Contact, Wise or any other method explicitly approved by the Seller. The Seller will inform the Buyer of the preferred and available method of receiving funds before the deposit or purchase.

The Buyer is solely responsible for paying all transaction fees, commissions, and currency exchange costs associated with the payment. The final amount received by the Seller must be equal to the sum specified in this Contract. Any shortfall due to fees or unfavorable exchange rates must be covered by the Buyer immediately upon request.

If the transfer system requires a mandatory comment about the purpose of the transfer (for example, PayPal), the Buyer must send the payment marked as “friends and family” or “personal payment” to avoid commercial fees. The Buyer is liable for any payment reversals, charges, or holds initiated by the payment system.

By making a deposit or full payment, the Buyer confirms that they fully understand and irrevocably agree to comply with all conditions set forth in this Contract. Payment must be made in U.S. dollars, rubles, or euros as instructed by the Seller.

The exchange rate for conversion into rubles (if applicable) is fixed on the date of signing this Contract and is specified in an addendum. No subsequent fluctuations in the exchange rate shall affect the final payment amount owed to the Seller.

4. Health Warranty and Veterinary Records

Upon transfer of the cat to the Buyer, the Seller guarantees that a passport or official veterinary record confirming vaccinations, deworming, and treatment against parasites will be handed over.

4.1. The Seller guarantees that the cat will be healthy for a period of 72 hours after the purchase (starting from the moment the cat is handed over to the Courier, Cargo Agent, personally to the Buyer or their representative). The Buyer must have the cat examined by a licensed veterinarian during this 72-hour period.

If a serious visible defect or incurable, life-threatening illness is discovered during this time, the Seller will provide a replacement cat of the same sex and quality (pet/breed) from the next available litter. The replacement process may take up to 12 months. No monetary compensation or refund of the price difference will be provided. This is contingent upon the Buyer submitting official documentation from a licensed veterinarian confirming the condition. The Buyer is responsible for all transportation costs of the replacement cat.

The Seller is not responsible for any hidden or undetectable health issues (see Clause 4.3). After 72 hours, the Seller can no longer guarantee the cat’s health.

4.2. The Seller guarantees replacement of the cat only in the event of a confirmed positive genetic test result for HCM (m/m), provided the cat is under 1 year of age and has not produced its first litter. If clinical signs of HCM are detected but the genetic test is negative (n/n), the guarantee is void, as the condition is not considered hereditary.

The etiology of primary cardiomyopathy is not fully understood. HCM is a complex disease that can result from multiple factors, including hereditary pathology, viral infections, autoimmune mechanisms, or biochemical disorders.

If HCM m/m is detected within the first year of the cat’s life, the Buyer must notify the Seller within 24 hours of receiving the official test results. The diagnosis must be confirmed by:

A repeat HCM test and an echocardiogram (ultrasound) performed by a licensed veterinary cardiologist who is board-certified or holds equivalent specialization in cardiology, accredited to work with cats. The Seller reserves the right to request and verify the specialist’s credentials. Original documentation on the clinic’s official letterhead, including the veterinarian’s full name, license number, and signature.

If the diagnosis is confirmed, the Buyer must sterilize/castrate the cat at their own expense and provide proof. After verification, the Buyer will be entitled to a replacement cat. The replacement process may take up to 12 months from the date the diagnosis is confirmed. The Seller will offer up to three replacement options. If none are accepted, the Buyer is deemed to have waived their right.

Transportation costs for the replacement cat are the responsibility of the Buyer. No monetary refund will be provided.

Hidden or undetectable genetic conditions are not covered under this guarantee (see Clause 4.3).

4.3. Exclusions from Guarantee

This Contract excludes any and all guarantees, express or implied, except for those explicitly stated in Clauses 4.1 and 4.2. The Seller shall not be held liable for any conditions, including but not limited to:

Any acquired illnesses, infections, or injuries occurring after the transfer of the cat to the Buyer.
Any and all genetic or hereditary conditions not specifically named in Clause 4.2.
Routine, treatable, or stress-related ailments (such as upper respiratory infections, conjunctivitis, parasites, or digestive issues).
Any aspects of the cat’s development, temperament, or suitability for exhibition, breeding, or any other purpose.

The Seller takes all reasonable care in raising healthy cats, but cannot predict, control, or guarantee conditions that may manifest due to environmental factors, aging, or unknown genetic predispositions after the cat leaves the Seller’s care.

Return, refund, or replacement is exclusively available under the terms outlined in Clauses 4.1 and 4.2 of this Contract.

4.4. This clause provides a guarantee in the event of the cat’s death due to a fatal congenital condition within 30 days from the date of transfer. The sole remedy under this clause is a replacement cat.

The Buyer must provide, within 7 days of the cat’s death, a full autopsy report. The autopsy must be performed by a board-certified veterinary pathologist (Diplomate ACVP/ECVP) or a licensed veterinarian with specialized training in pathology. The report must conclusively prove that the sole and direct cause of death was an incurable, congenital defect that existed at the time of transfer.

The Seller reserves the right to reject the autopsy report if it is deemed incomplete, inconclusive, or prepared by a specialist without appropriate credentials. In such a case, the Seller’s obligations under this clause become void.

This guarantee is separate from, and does not override, any other guarantees provided in this Contract. The Buyer is responsible for all autopsy and shipping costs for the replacement cat.

4.5. The Buyer is obliged to test all cats and other animals that will come into contact with the cat from Fire Stone Cattery for FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus), FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus), and FPV (Feline Panleukopenia Virus) 10–14 days before the cat arrives at the Buyer’s home. Testing must be performed by a licensed veterinarian, and negative results must be provided to the Seller before the cat’s arrival.

Failure to conduct testing or submit results prior to the cat’s arrival results in the immediate voiding of all health guarantees under this Contract.

4.6. Limitation of Seller’s Liability

From the moment of physical transfer of the cat to the Buyer, their authorized representative, a courier, or a cargo agent, all responsibility for the cat’s health, well-being, and veterinary care shifts entirely and irrevocably to the Buyer.

The Seller shall not be held liable for any costs, claims, or damages related to the cat, including but not limited to:

Routine and emergency veterinary care, treatments, surgeries, and medications.
Vaccinations, preventive treatments, and diagnostic tests.
Any injuries, illnesses, or conditions developing after transfer.
Costs associated with compliance with any local laws or regulations.

4.7. The Buyer agrees to provide the Seller with brief health and wellness updates (e.g., photos or videos) of the cat every 3 months during the first 12 months after the cat’s arrival. The first update is due within 3 months of the date of transfer.

The Seller may request reasonable additional updates. Failure to provide these updates may result in the Buyer forfeiting the right to future support or assistance from the Seller.

4.8. The Buyer is solely responsible for providing regular and preventive veterinary care for the cat, including but not limited to:

Annual examinations, vaccinations, and booster shots.
Deworming and parasite prevention (fleas, ticks).
Any other treatments recommended by a licensed veterinarian.

The Buyer is also expected to monitor the cat’s general health, behavior, and development, and agrees to notify the Seller of any serious or life-threatening health issues.

4.9. The Buyer acknowledges and understands that the Breeder employs a responsible breeding program aimed at preventing the hereditary diseases SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) and PKdef (Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency). The Buyer confirms that they have been informed of this practice and, upon their inquiry, have been provided with or given the opportunity to review the DNA test results of the kitten’s parents. The Parties expressly agree that, due to the implementation of this breeding program, no warranties or guarantees are provided in this Contract regarding SMA and PKdef, as the risk of producing an affected kitten is eliminated through genetic testing and selective breeding.

4.10. The Buyer undertakes to immediately notify the Seller and provide all relevant veterinary documentation (reports, test results) upon any diagnosis of a potentially life-threatening condition, as well as if a congenital or hereditary disease is suspected. Before commencing any major surgical intervention or long-term treatment plan for such conditions, the Buyer undertakes to consult with the Seller to discuss the diagnosis and proposed treatment. Failure to provide such notification and opportunity for consultation may, at the Seller’s discretion, void any applicable guarantees under this Contract.

5. Duties of the Parties

5.1. At the Buyer’s explicit request and expense, the Seller agrees to facilitate additional laboratory tests for infections or diseases specified by the Buyer before shipping the cat. These tests must be ordered and prepaid prior to the scheduled shipping date and may extend the departure timeframe by 5–10 business days, depending on laboratory processing times. The Seller is not responsible for the accuracy of results or delays caused by the testing facility.

If the Buyer does not request such tests, the Seller assumes no responsibility for any conditions that could have been detected by them. No future health-related claims based on the absence of these tests will be considered.

Once the cat has been shipped, claims based solely on positive test results for any viruses (including but not limited to FeLV, FIV, FCoV) without clear clinical symptoms will not be accepted.

Cats from Fire Stone Maine Coon Cattery are vaccinated according to international standards. However, no guarantee is provided that the cat is free of all infectious diseases.

5.2. This guarantee applies only if the cat is diagnosed with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) within 30 days from the date of transfer. The sole remedy is a replacement cat.

The Buyer must provide, within 7 days of diagnosis, an official veterinary report confirming the life-threatening diagnosis of FIP. The Seller reserves the right to reject the report if it is incomplete or inconclusive.

The Buyer is responsible for all costs of diagnosis and autopsy (if applicable). The replacement process may take up to 12 months. The Seller will offer up to three replacement options. If none are accepted, the Buyer is deemed to have waived their right.

This guarantee does not cover any other fatal diseases, the recurrence of FIP, or any illnesses occurring after the initial diagnosis.

5.3. At the Buyer’s request, the Seller may assist in organizing the shipping of the cat to the Buyer’s country. The Seller acts solely as an intermediary in facilitating contact with shipping services.

The Seller is not responsible for the shipping process itself, including but not limited to: delays, carrier selection, well-being of the cat during transit, compliance with import/export regulations, or any costs incurred. All risks associated with transport pass to the Buyer upon handover to the carrier.

All shipping costs, including customs duties, taxes, and cargo fees, are the sole responsibility of the Buyer.

5.4. Upon the cat’s arrival, the Buyer undertakes to maintain a strict 21-day quarantine. The cat must be kept completely isolated from all other animals without shared items (bowls, litter boxes, toys).

The Buyer must provide the Seller with photo/video evidence of compliance on the 7th and 14th days of quarantine. Failure to provide this evidence within 48 hours of these dates will automatically void all health guarantees under this Contract.

The Buyer must immediately notify the Seller of any signs of illness in the purchased cat.

5.5. The Buyer acknowledges that cats, including those from the Seller’s cattery, can be asymptomatic carriers of common feline pathogens (such as calicivirus, herpesvirus, coronavirus) and that transport or rehoming is a stressful event that may temporarily suppress the immune system.

The Buyer expressly waives the right to make any claims against the Seller related to the manifestation of any such common, stress-related illnesses following the cat’s transfer.

5.6. The Buyer may return the cat to the Seller at any time, provided that the return is pre-approved in writing by the Seller. The Seller reserves the right to deny a return request.

The Buyer acknowledges that no refunds or reimbursements of any kind will be provided, including the purchase price, breeding rights, or maintenance costs. The cat must be returned in good health, certified by a licensed veterinarian. All transportation costs and risks are borne solely by the Buyer.

5.7. The Buyer understands that any form of cruelty, neglect, or abuse of the cat is strictly prohibited. If the Seller provides evidence of such treatment, the Buyer agrees to immediately and unconditionally return the cat to the Seller at the Buyer’s expense.

In such cases, no refunds will be provided. Furthermore, the Seller reserves the right to take legal action and pursue compensation for damages, and to publicly disclose the incident to protect the welfare of animals.

5.8. The Buyer undertakes to provide the cat with proper care, including timely veterinary care, annual vaccinations, and nutrition based on high-quality premium or super-premium cat food. The Buyer must ensure the cat is not:

1. Permanently confined to a cage.
2. Allowed unsupervised outdoor access (including gardens, open balconies).

The Buyer agrees to the following binding conditions:

No Unauthorized Transfer: The cat will not be sold, transferred, given away, rented, placed in a pet shop or shelter, or used in research.
Right of First Refusal: If the Buyer can no longer keep the cat, they must notify the Seller and obtain prior written approval for any transfer.
Reclamation Right: Unauthorized transfer gives the Seller the right to reclaim the cat without any refund or compensation.
Approved Transfer Conditions: If approved, the Buyer must provide the new owner’s full contact details within 3 days, and the cat must be spayed/neutered.
Strict Prohibition: Declawing (onychectomy) or any inhumane surgical alteration is strictly forbidden.

5.9. A cat that is ready for travel must depart from the Seller’s home within 14 days (2 weeks) of full payment or reservation confirmation, unless a different date is mutually agreed upon in writing.

Cats younger than 4 months may be held at no additional cost. Once a cat reaches 4 months of age, it must depart within 14 days.

If the cat remains beyond the agreed period, the Buyer will be charged a boarding fee of $10/€10 per day, payable in advance. The Seller reserves the right to consider the contract void and relist the cat for sale if boarding fees are not paid.

5.10. The Buyer agrees to provide photo or video evidence of the cat’s well-being within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., 5-7 business days) upon the Seller’s reasonable request.

This right may be exercised for identification during veterinary procedures or to monitor the cat’s welfare. The Seller agrees not to abuse this right with excessive or frequent requests.

5.11. If the Buyer refuses to complete the purchase after paying a deposit, the deposit is non-refundable.

If the Buyer refuses to complete the purchase after paying 100% of the price, the Seller will refund the amount, minus the following deductions:

The non-refundable deposit (50% of the price).
A boarding fee of $10/€10 per day, calculated from the date of the initial deposit until the date of refund.
All bank transfer fees and currency conversion losses incurred by the Seller.

The refund will be processed only after the cat is successfully sold to a new buyer.

5.12. All funds transferred by the Buyer are intended for the development of the cattery. Except as explicitly provided in Clauses 2 and 5.11 of this Contract, all funds are non-refundable.

5.13. In the event that the cat becomes unavailable for transfer due to unforeseen circumstances arising while in the Seller’s care (e.g., illness, injury, developmental delay, or detection of a defect), the Seller will promptly notify the Buyer. The Seller will offer the Buyer a replacement cat of the same sex and quality (pet/breed).

The Seller will offer up to three alternative options within a reasonable timeframe (up to 12 months). If the Buyer rejects all three options, they are deemed to have waived all rights to a replacement or any refund.

5.14. The spay/neuter procedure may be performed by the Seller prior to shipping. If the procedure is not performed by the Seller, the Buyer is obligated to spay/neuter the cat within 2 months after the cat reaches the age of 6 months.

The Buyer must provide proof of the procedure to the Seller within 7 days of its completion: a veterinary certificate and a video recording from the clinic that clearly identifies the cat (e.g., by showing its microchip number or unique markings).

If the cat is used for breeding without the Seller’s written consent, or if proof of sterilization is not provided, the Buyer must immediately pay the full breeding price difference plus a penalty of 200% of the original pet price.

5.15. The cat will carry its registered name with the cattery prefix “Fire Stone” throughout its life, which must be reflected in all official documents and registrations.

All intellectual property rights for photos and videos created by the Seller remain the Seller’s property. Use of these materials for any public purpose requires the Seller’s prior written consent.

Removal of copyright notices or unauthorized use of materials constitutes a material breach of this Contract. In such cases, the Seller may terminate all obligations and seek legal remedies under applicable intellectual property laws.

5.16. If the cat dies at any age, for any reason, the Buyer must return the original pedigree document to the Seller at the Buyer’s expense (via registered mail) within 30 days of the cat’s death.

5.17. After a deposit or full payment is made, the Seller will provide the Buyer with reasonable updates (e.g., photos or videos) of the cat prior to shipping. The Seller will make a good faith effort to provide updates approximately every two weeks, but the frequency may vary depending on the Seller’s availability.

The Buyer acknowledges that the Seller is not obligated to provide daily or weekly updates, and that the cat’s appearance may change naturally during growth.

5.18. A signed contract without a deposit received by the Seller has no legal force and does not reserve the cat. The cat is reserved only after the Seller receives the deposit. The initial reservation period is 14 days for shipping preparation. This period may be extended by mutual written agreement of the Parties, for example, in case of waiting for a flight date to rare destinations or due to queue for shipping.

The Buyer must complete the full payment within 72 hours after the Seller confirms the exact shipping date. If the full payment is not received within this period, the Seller has the right to cancel the reservation and the deposit is not refunded.

Notwithstanding the above, the Seller may, at its sole discretion and upon prior written agreement with the Buyer, allow the full payment to be made upon the Buyer’s personal pickup or immediately prior to the shipment.

5.19. The Parties are not entitled to transfer their rights and obligations under this Contract to unrelated third parties without the prior written consent of the other Party. However, the Seller may delegate tasks and responsibilities related to the cattery operations to employees, co-owners, or representatives of the “Fire Stone” cattery, provided that the Seller remains fully responsible for the performance of this Contract.

5.20. The Buyer is solely responsible for ensuring they have the Seller’s correct contact details. The Buyer must notify the Seller of any change to their own contact information within five (5) business days.

All communications sent to the Buyer’s last known contact information will be considered duly delivered. The Buyer bears all risks of failing to update their details.

The Seller’s current contact information is always available on the official cattery website. The Seller is not obligated to provide individual notifications of contact changes.

5.21. The pedigree will be issued only after full payment is received. It will be sent by email or postal mail at the Buyer’s expense.

The Seller will initiate the pedigree registration process upon full payment. Note that the pedigree is issued by the official feline club, and the Seller is not responsible for delays in its preparation.

If the pedigree is not ready by the shipping date, it will be sent later by email or by postal mail at the Buyer’s expense.

5.22. The Buyer acknowledges and agrees that the standard practices of the Fire Stone Cattery (including but not limited to: chosen type of feeding, litter, vaccination, deworming protocols, and other zootechnical measures) applied to the kitten prior to its transfer, were selected by the Seller based on professional experience, knowledge, and in accordance with standards accepted in the international felinological community. The Buyer agrees that these practices are optimal for the Cattery and may not be subsequently challenged or serve as grounds for any claims.

5.23. In the event of a refund under clause 5.11, the Seller shall initiate the refund only after the successful sale of the cat to a new buyer and upon receipt of the full payment from the new buyer. The Seller reserves the exclusive right to determine the final deductible amount based on the actual costs incurred, including but not limited to: extended boarding, re-advertising, and veterinary check-ups for the new sale. The refund process may take up to 6 (six) months from the date of the Buyer’s breach of the contract.

6. Delivery and Shipping

6.1. The Seller strongly recommends that the Buyer or the Buyer’s authorized representative personally pick up the cat. This method is considered the safest and least stressful for the cat.

If personal pickup is not possible, the terms below apply.

6.2. If shipping is arranged by Cargo or Courier/Agent, the Seller is not responsible for the quality of shipping or any consequences associated with transportation. The Seller’s responsibility ends once the cat is handed over to the Cargo or Courier/Agent.

6.3. The Seller organizes all shipping arrangements for the cat using trusted agents/couriers. The Buyer pays the Seller a single, agreed-upon amount that covers all costs (courier, air tickets, container, documents, etc.).

This shipping fee is non-refundable once the Seller has initiated the process (e.g., booked a flight). The Seller is not liable for any delays, losses, or issues caused by third-party carriers (airlines, customs, agents, couriers, brokers). All risks during transit are borne by the Buyer.

6.4. The total shipping cost is calculated and invoiced in U.S. Dollars (USD) or Euros (EUR). The Buyer must ensure the full amount is received by the Seller in the invoiced currency, covering all bank transfer fees and exchange rate differences.

6.5. The minimum age for shipping is 4 months. The Buyer is solely responsible for verifying and complying with all import laws of the destination country, which may require a higher minimum age.

The shipping date will be scheduled only after all legal requirements are met.

6.6. The cat is typically shipped within 2-3 weeks of the deposit receipt. The maximum shipping timeframe shall not exceed one (1) calendar month from the deposit date. The exact shipping date is determined by the Courier/Agent’s schedule and availability and is communicated to the Buyer promptly. These timeframes may be extended due to Force Majeure under Clause 8.

6.7. If the Buyer requests to replace the reserved cat with another cat, the Seller may agree at its sole discretion.

If the request is made within 7 calendar days of the deposit, the deposit may be transferred to the new cat. Any price difference shall be settled.
If the request is made after 7 calendar days, the Buyer must pay a non-refundable replacement processing fee of $300 as liquidated damages. The original deposit will be transferred to the new cat, and any price difference shall be settled.
If the new cat is less expensive, the price difference will not be refunded.
The Seller reserves the right to refuse any replacement request.

6.8. The exact shipping date is scheduled individually after the deposit is received, based on the Courier/Agent’s availability and the completion of veterinary documentation. The Seller will notify the Buyer of the confirmed date promptly.

6.9. The Buyer may arrange independent shipping using their own Courier/Agent only upon the Seller’s prior written consent. The Courier/Agent must provide all necessary documentation and meet the Seller’s requirements for animal transportation. All responsibility for the cat’s well-being, health, and safe transit transfers entirely to the Buyer and their Courier/Agent from the moment of handover. The Seller may refuse independent shipping at their sole discretion.

6.10. The Buyer is solely responsible for verifying, understanding, and complying with all import laws, regulations, quarantine periods, and documentation requirements of the destination country. This includes obtaining any necessary import permits, health certificates, or vaccinations beyond those provided by the Seller. The Seller is not liable for any delays, refusal of entry, or costs arising from the Buyer’s failure to comply.

6.11. The Parties acknowledge that international bank transfers from certain countries may be delayed, blocked, or rejected due to sanctions, banking regulations, or compliance checks. The Buyer bears all risks and costs associated with such delays. The Seller is not liable if the transfer is not received due to these factors. Alternative payment methods must be sought by the Buyer.

6.12. All customs duties, import taxes, VAT, and brokerage fees in the destination country are the sole responsibility of the Buyer. The Seller is not responsible for calculating, paying, or reimbursing these costs.

6.13. If the destination country requires apostille or other legalization of the cat’s documents (pedigree, veterinary certificate), this service is provided at the Buyer’s expense and request. The Seller will assist in the process, but is not responsible for delays from official authorities.

6.14. At the moment of receiving the cat, the Buyer or their authorized representative is obliged within 1 (one) hour to take and send to the Seller via email or messenger no less than 3 (three) clear photos and 1 (one) short video with a duration of no less than 15 seconds, which clearly identify the received animal and demonstrate its condition.

The photos and video must clearly confirm that:

The cat has been delivered alive.
The cat is in a state of alertness, shows activity, and is not sleeping or lying motionless.
The cat has no visible serious injuries, discharge from eyes or nose, is not limping, and does not demonstrate other obvious signs of illness.

The Buyer’s sending of the specified materials within the stipulated period is considered an unconditional confirmation (proof of transfer) that at the time of receipt the cat was alive, active, and had no visible critical health problems.

Failure to provide the photo and video report within 1 hour of receipt automatically voids the 72-hour health guarantee under Clause 4.1 of this Contract, as it deprives the Seller of the opportunity to objectively assess the cat’s condition at the moment of transfer.

6.15. The Seller may, as a courtesy, provide the Buyer with tracking information and flight details, and may assist in coordinating the final collection of the cat from the destination airport or cargo terminal. The Buyer acknowledges and agrees that this assistance is provided solely as a facilitation and does not extend the Seller’s liability or responsibility beyond the point of handover to the initial carrier as defined in Clauses 6.2 and 6.3.

The Buyer bears sole and absolute responsibility for coordinating the timely pickup of the cat, completing all customs and import formalities at the destination, and for all risks, costs, and delays associated with this final leg of the journey. The Seller shall not be held liable for any incidents, delays, or issues arising after the cat’s arrival at the destination airport, including but not limited to delays in pickup by the Buyer, errors by local customs or ground handling agents, or any other post-arrival complications.

7. Breach of Contract and Liquidated Damages.

7.1. The Seller reserves the right to terminate this Contract immediately upon any breach of its terms by the Buyer. Upon termination, the Buyer is obligated to return the cat to the Seller at the Buyer’s expense within 10 calendar days. No refund of the purchase price will be given.

7.2. In case of a material breach (including, but not limited to, unauthorized breeding, declawing, transfer, or neglect), the Buyer is liable to the Seller for liquidated damages in an amount 3 (three) times the purchase price of the cat, plus all costs of returning the cat (including veterinary checks) and all legal fees incurred to enforce this Contract.

7.3. Any legal action shall be filed in the courts of the Seller’s city of residence in the Russian Federation. The Buyer expressly consents to this jurisdiction.

8. Force Majeure

Neither the Seller nor the Buyer shall be liable for any delay or failure to perform their obligations under this Contract due to circumstances beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to: natural disasters, fires, floods, earthquakes, epidemics, pandemics, wars, strikes, government restrictions, transportation disruptions, or illness of the Seller, Buyer, or Courier/Agent. In such cases, the affected party must notify the other party as soon as reasonably possible. The obligations of the parties are suspended for the duration of the force majeure event.

9. Modification

Except as otherwise provided in this Contract, this Contract may be modified, superseded, or voided only upon the written and signed new Contract of the Buyer and Seller. Further, the physical destruction or loss of this document shall not be construed as a modification or termination of the Contract contained herein.

10. Conditions for the Transfer of Exclusive Breeding Rights

10.1. This Contract is mixed in nature and includes:

a sales contract for the animal, governed by the civil legislation of the Russian Federation, which provides for the transfer of ownership of the animal and the Buyer’s obligations for its care;
an agreement on the transfer of exclusive rights to use the animal for breeding purposes.

10.2. The genetic material of the animal (including but not limited to semen, oocytes, embryos, DNA samples, and other biological materials) is recognized as part of the Seller’s intellectual property in accordance with Articles 1225, 1229, and 1233 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation.

Note for Buyers: Under Russian law, breeding rights are treated similarly to intellectual property rights.

10.3. Any breeding use of the animal or transfer of its genetic material to third parties is allowed only with the written consent of the Seller.

10.4. Any violation of the conditions for the use of breeding rights under of Clause 10 shall be considered a material breach of the Contract.

In the event of such a breach, the Seller shall be entitled to:

Demand the immediate return of the animal at the Buyer’s expense;
Terminate the Contract without refund of the purchase price;
Demand payment of a penalty in the amount of 2 (two) to 5 (five) times the purchase price of the animal;
Demand compensation for all damages incurred in accordance with Article 393 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation;
Demand the cessation of the unlawful use of the intellectual property and payment of compensation under Articles 1252 and 1301 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation.

The Seller may pursue these remedies individually or concurrently.

10.5. Breeding activities and pedigree use are also regulated by Federal Law No. 493-FZ “On Pedigree Animal Breeding”.

11. Miscellaneous

11.1. If you have questions, contact the Seller for explanations and follow their recommendations, especially in case of any problems with the cat, which could later lead to a disputable situation between the parties. The Seller provides advice based on their experience as a breeder, not as a veterinarian, and recommendations should be followed according to the Seller’s knowledge and expertise.

Important: Never rely on unverified information from the Internet, other breeders, or self-proclaimed experts when providing veterinary care or deciding on a care/feeding program for the cat. Failure to follow this may result in termination of this Contract in accordance with its clauses.

11.2. The Seller is not responsible for unsatisfactory ratings of the cat at exhibitions.

11.3. The Seller has the right to use, for advertising and other purposes, photos or videos of the cat provided by the Buyer, at the Seller’s discretion, without any fee or additional compensation to the Buyer.

11.4. Breeding Status and Obligations.

This clause applies only if the cat is explicitly designated as “Breeding” on the first page of this Contract. If the cat is sold as “Pet”, all breeding is strictly prohibited.
The Parties acknowledge that unauthorized mating harms the breed and violates the Breeder’s interests. All breeding activities must involve only registered Maine Coon cats.
For cats sold as “Breeding”, the Buyer is strongly encouraged to participate in exhibitions to confirm the quality of the breed. The Buyer is solely responsible for all breeding and exhibition activities.

11.5. The Buyer is strictly forbidden to display the pedigree of the cat, including registration numbers, publicly in print publications, on the Internet, or in mass media.

The Buyer is also forbidden to transfer, show, or sell the pedigree to any third parties.
Any violation of this clause will be considered a material breach of this Contract, entitling the Seller to take appropriate legal action.

11.6. The Seller will provide the Buyer with advice and guidance on care, maintenance, nutrition, and socialization of the cat, based on the Seller’s knowledge and experience as a breeder. This advice is consultative and does not replace veterinary services. The Buyer must seek licensed veterinary care for any health concerns. The Seller offers such consultations as reasonably possible and at a time convenient for the Seller, remaining available for ongoing support after the transfer of the cat. Responses are provided within a reasonable timeframe, but not immediately, and such support is given without any obligation of constant or unlimited assistance.

11.7. The Seller assumes that the Buyer’s decision to purchase this cat is balanced, deliberate, and long-term, and that the Buyer understands and accepts that during growth and development, the cat may fully correspond to the Maine Coon breed standard or deviations from the standard may appear. Such deviations do not reduce the value of the cat and are not grounds for return, refund, or dispute between the Parties.

11.8. The Buyer agrees to send photos or videos of the cat 3–4 times per year to the cattery via email, messenger, or social media direct message. This is to allow the Seller to monitor the cat’s health and well-being. The Seller may also request updates on the cat’s well-being at any time of the year, in a respectful and unobtrusive manner.

Failure to provide the agreed updates may result in the Buyer forfeiting the right to future support or breeding consultations from the Seller.

11.9. The Buyer agrees to provide the cat with essential items for its well-being, including a cat tree, scratching post, litter box cleaned daily, appropriate bedding, and toys for mental and physical stimulation. All items must be safe and suitable for the cat’s health.

Failure to provide these essential items may be considered a sign of neglectful treatment under Clause 5.7 of this Contract.

11.10. The Buyer represents that neither they nor any legal guardians residing in the same household as the cat have ever been convicted or tried for cruelty, neglect, or abandonment of any animal. If this is found to be untrue, the cat becomes the sole property of the Seller.

11.11. The cat must be isolated from all other animals in the Buyer’s home for at least 21 days. During this period, any contact with other cats or animals can expose the kitten/cat to silent carriers of disease.

If other animals, including shelter cats, are introduced before quarantine ends or without proof of negative FeLV, FIV, FPV, FIP test results, the health guarantee under this Contract (except for congenital or genetic defects) becomes invalid.

11.12. The Seller has the right, if possible, to visit the future home of the cat before shipping. If a visit is not possible, the Buyer must provide photos and videos showing the living conditions, sleeping area, litter setup, and general environment to ensure it is safe and suitable for the cat.

11.13. The use of electronic signatures, including qualified digital signatures or facsimile reproduction of a handwritten signature, is allowed for signing this Contract, provided it is agreed by both Parties and in accordance with applicable law.

11.14. After signing this Contract, all prior negotiations, correspondence, preliminary agreements, or oral promises regarding this cat are null and void. Only the terms written in this Contract are legally binding. No amendments or promises made outside this Contract will be valid unless confirmed in writing in this Contract.

11.15. The Seller conducts a rabies titer test (FAVN) for the cat, which is usually required for international import, at the Buyer’s expense. The results are provided within 5–14 days. The Seller is not responsible for delays caused by the laboratory. This test is performed for the Buyer’s benefit and to meet import requirements.

11.16. In case of actions by the Buyer that damage or may damage the reputation of the Seller, employees, or the Fire Stone cattery (including, but not limited to: disclosing, writing, or publishing negative information in personal correspondence, oral conversation, social networks, Internet, media, or transferring such information to third parties), the Seller reserves the right to terminate this Contract unilaterally. Upon such termination, the Seller shall be released from all obligations under this Contract, including providing a replacement, refund, or any other compensation. These actions will be considered a fundamental breach by the Buyer.

11.17. The Buyer acknowledges that at the time of transfer, the cat is clinically healthy, as confirmed by an international veterinary certificate provided by the Seller. The Buyer accepts the cat in its current condition.

11.18. [This clause applies only if the cat is designated as “Breeding” on the first page of this Contract.] The Buyer acknowledges that the cat was selected for breeding purposes and agrees to use it in accordance with the breeding obligations outlined in this Contract.

11.19. The Buyer is strictly forbidden from placing the cat in any cattery, pet hotel, shelter, or with any third-party caretaker for boarding or long-term stay without the prior written consent of the Seller. Violation of this clause shall be considered a material breach of contract, entitling the Seller to reclaim the cat under the terms of Clause 5.7.

11.20. Throughout the cat’s lifetime, the Seller reserves the right to request one scheduled visit (or a real-time video call inspection) to the Buyer’s residence to verify the cat’s keeping conditions and well-being. This right may be exercised if the Seller has reasonable concerns about the animal’s welfare, based on a prolonged lack of updates upon the Seller’s request or other credible information. The visit will be coordinated with the Buyer in advance, with a notice of at least 10 (ten) calendar days, and will be conducted in a respectful and non-intrusive manner. An unreasonable refusal of the visit by the Buyer may be considered a breach of this Contract.

12. Language of the Contract

This Contract is drafted in English. If the Buyer does not understand English sufficiently, it is the Buyer’s sole responsibility to obtain a professional translation of this Contract at his/her own expense before signing.

13. Copies of the Contract

This Contract is executed in two (2) originals of equal legal force, one for each Party.

14. Acceptance of Contract

The Buyer and Seller acknowledge that this Contract may be signed before the deposit (reserve) is paid, if agreed by both parties. In such case, the Buyer understands that the cat is not considered reserved until the deposit is received by the Seller in full.

Deposit / Reserve Status:
( ) Paid in full
( ) Partially paid (amount): _______________________
( ) Not paid at the time of signing

The signatures of the Buyer and the Seller below confirm that:

The Buyer has read, fully understood, and agrees to ALL of the terms and conditions of this Contract.
The Buyer undertakes to provide the Seller with his/her personal identification number and a scanned copy or photo of an identity document by e-mail at the time of signing this Contract.

Ownership: The cat remains the property of the Seller until full payment is received.

This Contract is legally binding and enters into force upon signature by both Parties. Notarization is not required.

(Signature of the Seller) (Date)

(Signature of the Buyer) (Date)

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