◆ Buyer Protection ◆
How to Tell a Real Breeder From a Scam
Maine Coon scams are more common than most people realize. Here's what to watch for — and how to verify me.
Red Flags to Watch For
⚠ They won't do a live video call
Any real breeder can get on a video call and show you the kittens, the parents, and the space they're raised in. If someone refuses or keeps making excuses, that's a problem.
⚠ Wire transfer or Zelle only — no other payment options
Scammers push wire transfers because they're irreversible. A real breeder will have multiple payment options and won't pressure you into one.
⚠ Prices far below market
European Maine Coon kittens from health-tested lines cost real money. If someone is offering them for $500–$800, something is wrong. Either the cats aren't what they claim, or it's a scam.
⚠ No TICA registration number
TICA-registered catteries are searchable on tica.org. If a breeder claims to be TICA-registered but can't give you a cattery name to look up, be skeptical.
⚠ Photos look like stock images or don't match
Run a reverse image search on any kitten photos. Scammers frequently steal photos from real breeders' websites and social media.
⚠ High-pressure tactics
"This kitten will be gone by tonight" or "I have five other families interested" — real breeders don't need to pressure you. Take your time.
⚠ No physical location or they're vague about where they are
A real cattery has a real address. I'm in Ballwin, Missouri. You can come visit.
How to Verify Dashing Coons Is Real
✓ Look me up on TICA
Go to tica.org and search for Dashing Coons. My cattery is registered there. If you can't find it or the name doesn't match, ask me directly.
✓ Request a live video call
I'll get on a video call and show you the kittens, the parents, and the room they're raised in. No scripts, no pre-recorded video.
✓ Come visit in person
I welcome in-person visits by appointment at my home in Ballwin, Missouri. You can meet the cats, see where the kittens are raised, and ask me anything face to face.
✓ Text or call me directly
I answer every message myself. There's no assistant, no form response, no delay. If you text (618) 973-6926, you're talking to me.
Have questions or want to verify me before you commit? Text me directly.
Text me at (618) 973-6926