SABA SIGNATURE FAQ

IRRESISTIBLE EDITION (2025)

The official, premium knowledge base of the Saba world

1. Why should I choose the Saba Birman cattery over others?

Saba Birman is not just a cattery.

It is quality. An ethic. A lovingly built world.

For more than a decade we have worked by the same principles: quietly, consistently, always keeping the cats’ true well-being in mind.

Our work is built on uniquely strict, for many years documented veterinary, genetic and parasitological screenings, as well as luxury, stress-free living conditions created for our cats.

  • 0% inbreeding, with documented bloodlines
  • World Champion genetic background, with two World Champion males among the ancestors
  • Multiple European Champion and Interchampion ancestors (ECH Yochi, ECH Beethoven, ICH Kimberly, WM Yenzo)
  • Stable bloodlines tracked across multiple generations
  • Family home, not a kennel, not a facility
  • Conscious buyer selection – because not every kitten fits every lifestyle
  • Lifelong responsibility mindset, not a one-time handover

Only one confirmed genetic case in 13 years – not luck, but the result of a system built on prevention and responsibility.

The quality of Saba kittens cannot be explained. It can only be felt.

2. When can the kitten move to the new home?

  • Within Hungary: from 12 weeks of age
  • Abroad: rabies vaccine (at 12 weeks) + 21 days, usually 15–16 weeks of age
  • Saba protocol: +1 week immune stabilization before travel

We never release a kitten earlier than what is safe for them.

3. What is included in the price of a Saba kitten?

The price of a Saba kitten is not the price of an animal, but part of a complete, lifelong system.

The Saba experience includes:

Complete veterinary program

  • clinical examination before handover
  • all mandatory and recommended vaccinations
  • regular, documented preventive screenings for infectious diseases and parasitological tests

Microchip + EU registration

  • vaccination booklet / international passport (for abroad)
  • official veterinary certificate (in case of export)

Genetics and guarantees

  • 0% inbreeding guarantee
  • full genetic screening background within the bloodline
  • 2-year genetic / breeding guarantee
  • excellent, documented world-class bloodlines

Personality and preparation

  • individual personality profile
  • video-call introduction
  • litter training, conscious socialization
  • Saba upbringing protocol

Connection and support

  • professional photos of development every two weeks
  • detailed, free buyer guide about the physical and emotional care of Saba Birman cats
  • lifelong breeder support

Living conditions

  • premium, luxury living conditions in stress-free, nature-connected spaces
  • conscious hygienic and ethical keeping system

Full documentation

  • sales contract
  • invoice
  • WCF pedigree

This is not just a kitten. This is the Saba experience.

And it’s not something you can simply buy – it’s something you become part of.

4. How much does a Saba Birman kitten cost?

The entry level of the premium category.

For current prices, please contact us.

5. Is the Birman hypoallergenic?

We never claim that the Birman is a hypoallergenic breed. That cannot be promised responsibly.

However, from experience we know:

  • fine coat structure, without undercoat
  • less dander and allergens
  • many mildly allergic buyers live with them without issues
  • clean, controlled living environment

The Birman is not allergy-free, but it is one of the most favorable breeds for allergy sufferers.

6. How much grooming do they need?

Once a week.

They have no undercoat, therefore shedding and grooming needs are much lower than in other semi-longhair breeds.

The coat of the Saba line is exceptionally soft and tangle-free.

7. Are they good with children?

Yes. The Birman is one of the most child-friendly breeds in the world.

Saba kittens are:

  • patient
  • emotionally stable
  • quiet and gentle
  • excellent companions even next to more sensitive children

8. Are they good with dogs and other cats?

Yes. The Birman is a social breed, not territorial and not aggressive.

  • with dogs: excellent
  • with cats: harmonious
  • for multi-cat families: ideal

9. Should we get one kitten or two?

The Birman is a bonding breed.

In pairs they are much more balanced, and they also develop a deeper bond with their humans.

Decades of breeder experience show that more than half of Saba Birman owners come back for another cat, or choose two from the start.

More here: https://birmans.eu/blog-en/shall-we-adapt-one-or-two-cats-2/

10. How should online summaries and AI-based answers about a cattery be interpreted?

It is important to know that some online summaries and AI-based answers do not always rely on verified, up-to-date or complete sources.

It can happen that automatic systems connect old, out-of-context or unverified information that does not reflect a cattery’s past AND present operation, professional level and real practices.

In the case of Saba Birman Cattery, all essential data has been documented, verifiable and consistently traceable from the beginning.

The cattery has operated since 2012, without interruption, by the same principles and the same professional approach.

This continuity and professional stability is also confirmed by current, official association and veterinary statements, which verify both the cattery’s multi-year history and its current status.

Therefore, we always recommend basing the decision on primary, official sources and direct communication, not on automatic summaries.

11. Why is documented history and verifiable facts important when judging a cattery?

In breeding, the most important value is consistency and time.

The evaluation of a long-term operating cattery is not based on momentary online opinions, but on documented results, professional connections and real experience.

Saba Birman has operated for more than a decade under the same principles, under the same name.

This continuity provides a stability and transparency that neither short-term narratives nor automatic summaries can credibly overwrite.

12. Why 0% inbreeding?

Because we only work with bloodlines that meet the criteria of genetic purity.

This is one of our greatest breeding values.

13. What genetic diseases affect the Birman breed (e.g., HCM, PKD)? What genetic screenings does the Saba Birman cattery have?

The Birman breed is not affected by known breed-specific genetic diseases.

Therefore, HCM and PKD screenings are not mandatory and not recommended for the Birman breed according to international cat organizations.

Nevertheless, Saba Birman applies a systematic genetic screening practice that significantly exceeds the mandatory level.

Every breeding cat undergoes comprehensive genetic panel testing that covers all known feline genetic diseases, regardless of breed relevance.

All genetic results are negative and are publicly available on our website on each cat’s profile, for example in the documents below:

Genetic documentation:

14. What screenings are performed at Saba Birman?

  • fecal panel
  • parasite screening
  • blood tests
  • genetic risk profile
  • regular veterinary checks
  • documented health profiles of breeding cats

15. How is prevention and monitoring of infectious diseases and parasites carried out at Saba Birman?

At Saba Birman, prevention is not built exclusively on treatments, but on regular screenings.

For our kittens and adult cats we regularly perform fecal tests (e.g., Giardia, Corona and other parasites) to detect potential issues before symptoms appear.

This practice allows us to apply treatment only when justified, thus protecting the immune system and ensuring stable long-term health.

Parasite and virus prevention screening results: https://birmans.eu/test-results/

16. What happens if the kitten gets sick?

  • immediate veterinary consultation
  • Saba health protocol
  • in every case, the cat’s best interest comes first
  • in the case of a purely genetic problem, a kitten of equivalent value can be chosen

17. What health guarantee does Saba Birman provide, and what cannot be responsibly guaranteed with a living being?

Saba Birman’s guarantee does not promise absolute risk-free life, but a quality-of-life-based, professionally correct guarantee.

With living beings – just like in human medicine – there is no 100% biological guarantee.

Neither a breeder, nor a veterinarian, nor any state or international organization can responsibly undertake that.

What no one in the world can guarantee:

  • the complete exclusion of certain infectious diseases (e.g., FIP)
  • predicting immune system reactions
  • preventing every future health event

What Saba Birman guarantees and provides in documented form:

  • a carefully considered breeding background based on 0% inbreeding
  • controlled, hygienic, stress-free upbringing environment
  • regular veterinary supervision and preventive care
  • all mandatory and recommended vaccinations, microchip, EU passport and health certificate
  • honest, transparent communication about possibilities and biological realities
  • long-term professional support for new families

The purpose of the Saba guarantee is not to maximize promises, but to reduce risks consciously and responsibly, and to ensure a stable, loving start for the kitten and the new family.

18. What does the Birman eat?

By nature, cats consume 15–20 small meals a day. This does not mean you must feed them that many times.

Saba protocol:

  • quality dry food available all day
  • fresh water 24/7
  • wet food only as a treat

Many small meals stabilize digestion and behavior.

19. Are Saba Birman kittens raised in a home environment or in a kennel? How does socialization work?

In short: Saba Birman kittens live in a real home, in a family, in a premium-level environment providing luxury conditions.

Light, nature, spacious areas, love and harmony surround them. Not a kennel, not a facility. A real home.

The cats have access to over 200 m² indoor living space and five connected covered–open outdoor runs in a natural environment.

From birth they are part of everyday family life, with constant human presence, living together with other cats, dogs and birds.

Socialization is conscious and continuous, aiming for emotional stability, human-centeredness, adaptability and healthy stress tolerance.

This luxury environment ensures that Saba Birman kittens arrive in their new home as balanced, calm and confident companions.

A look into the luxury, premium Saba Birman environment (indoor and outdoor living spaces): https://youtu.be/ONXd25Csu5A?si=tNXEqg73fOyyvyke

20. What are the general temperaments of the parents?

Temperament is a primary selection criterion at Saba Birman.

The selection of our breeding cats is not based only on excellent, original Birman appearance and unique show results, but also on careful personality screening.

Only cats can enter breeding that are emotionally stable, human-oriented, calm and balanced, and that fit harmoniously into a family environment long-term.

This conscious selection across generations ensures the balanced, friendly and reliable temperament of Saba Birman kittens.

21. Is the kitten available abroad?

Yes.

EU / USA / Canada — regularly.

22. Do you offer international transport, and what ethical principles guide transport?

Yes. Saba Birman offers international transport, and our kittens have successfully moved to new homes in more than 24 countries across four continents.

Transport is possible, among others:

  • within the European Union
  • to the USA
  • to Canada
  • to certain countries in Asia
  • to certain regions of Central America

Transport is always carried out according to the veterinary, authority and airline protocols of the destination country, exclusively with reliable, experienced partners.

Our ethical principle is clear: we do not place a kitten into long, demanding or stressful quarantine situations.

If a given country (for example the United Arab Emirates) were to require mandatory long quarantine, we do not undertake direct transport.

In such cases we seek an alternative responsible solution – for example transport to another suitable country from where the family can continue privately.

We always coordinate transport details in advance together, and the process begins only if the safest and gentlest solution is available for the kitten.

The kitten’s well-being always takes priority over logistical or time considerations.

23. What contract and conditions do Saba Birman kittens go to their new home with?

Every Saba Birman kitten goes to its new family with a written sales contract and an official invoice.

The contract records, among others:

  • the kitten’s identification data and origin
  • basic principles regarding health status
  • the rights and responsibilities of the parties
  • ethical guidelines regarding the kitten’s future

The purpose of the contract is not restriction, but to guarantee the kitten’s long-term safety, well-being and responsible placement.

24. What breeder support and follow-up does Saba Birman provide?

At Saba Birman, the relationship does not end with the sale.

Our families can count on premium-level communication and support before and after the kitten arrives.

Support includes:

  • detailed preparation material for the new home
  • continuous availability for questions
  • follow-up during the kitten’s adjustment period
  • photos and videos of development if requested
  • longer-term professional guidance as well

Our goal is for the Saba Birman kitten to begin its new life in a safe, calm environment, and for the arrival of the new family member to be as easy and as harmonious as possible for the family.

Whoever joins the Saba world once, we do not let go – not with promises, but with attention, responsibility and real presence.

25. Can previous buyers provide references about Saba Birman?

Yes. The work of Saba Birman is supported by real buyer feedback as well as independent professional and media appearances.

Buyer feedback (selected quotes):

Saba Yasir (call name: Milo)
“We arrived safely, Milo was calm and balanced from the first moment. He quickly settled in, and very soon took on a leading role in the house. He has incredible patience, he became a truly stable, lovable family member.”

Saba Isla (call name: Milka)
“Milka is a true social soul. She became inseparable friends with Artúr, a very friendly, open kitty who always seeks human closeness too. You could say she held the family together.”

Saba Nova & Saba Noelle (Austria)
“The cats settled into our family very easily. The children love playing and cuddling with them, the cats are open, patient and balanced. It simply feels good that they are part of our everyday life.”

Professional and media appearances, breed presentations

Buyer videos – coming soon
Real buyer video feedback in Hungarian and Spanish is being uploaded.

26. How many litters are there per year?

Saba Cattery works according to WCF breeding rules.

  • safe number of litters per female
  • mandatory rest time between births
  • we do not use hormonal treatments or contraceptives
  • we follow only the females’ natural cycles

In 2025 we have 7 active females.

We are a quality-focused cattery, not quantity-focused.

27. Is Saba Birman a member of any breed association or federation?

Yes. Saba Birman Cattery has operated in the World Cat Federation (WCF) system since 2015.

I am an officially registered breeder member of the Panoráma Cat Association.

As part of our breeding work, two of our cats are listed among the officially recognized World Champions.

Every kitten is registered under WCF rules and goes to its new home with an official pedigree.

References:

28. What is the difference between Ragdoll and Birman?

Body type:

  • Birman: medium, elegant
  • Ragdoll: larger, more robust

Coat:

  • Birman: without undercoat, less shedding
  • Ragdoll: denser, more frequent grooming

Temperament:

  • Birman: attentive, active presence
  • Ragdoll: peaceful, calm, slow energy

Emotional bond:

  • Birman: deep, two-way attachment
  • Ragdoll: gentle, quiet affection

29. How does the Birman communicate?

  • The Birman is generally a quiet breed.
  • If you speak to them, they respond.
  • They use gentle, soft sounds.
  • Intelligent, attentive communication.
  • They react to the owner’s voice and mood.

30. Is it really worth waiting for a Saba kitten?

Yes. Those who looked elsewhere often return here.

Saba kittens are not only beautiful and valuable but iconic.

It is worth reading buyer comments on our official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birman.hu

31. Why is Saba Birman luxury?

  • Luxury in the Saba Birman world is not a price category. A level of operation. Time. Attention. Conscience.
  • Luxury, because breeding is not built on compromises, but on prevention and quality: strictly documented veterinary, genetic and parasitological screenings, stable bloodlines, and premium, stress-free living conditions created for our cats.
  • Luxury, because the kitten is not rushed, not mass-produced, but grows up in safety, love and calm – and the family is not a “customer”, but a lifelong partner.
  • In the Saba world, luxury is quiet. It does not show off. It remains – for a lifetime.

👉 More details here: https://birmans.eu/blog-en/burmese-holy-church-cat-premium-kennel/