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Sleek Cats Cattery review: Bad Breeder 65

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AVOID THIS SPHYNX CAT BREEDER

I am sharing my experience and Zeke's story in hopes that it may save someone else the heartache and pain myself and my family went through with the painful loss of baby Zeke.

I got Zeke at the end of November 2012, because I fell in love with my brother and his girlfriends' canadian sphynx, Normand. We were all roommates, and thought it would be great for Normand to have a buddy. Zeke was such a sweet little kitten. He was so lively and playful, and always wanted to be around us, he was so loving. Around the end of June 2013, we started noticing Zeke wasn't quite as lively as usual, he had lost some weight, and he felt like he was running a fever. I took him to the vet and they put him on antibiotics, in hopes that it would clear everything up. After about a week being on the antibiotics, Zeke hadn't shown much improvement, and in addition, his belly started to swell up as he continued to lose weight. When I called the vet with these updates, they suggested I bring him in for an ultrasound of his belly. I dropped him off at the vet and received a call later on saying they thought a blood test would be a better option than the ultrasound. After two days, the vet called and delivered the bad news. Zeke had FIP, Feline Infectious peritonitis, which is a mutation of the coronavirus. Cats could have the dormant coronavirus and never get sick, or it could mutate to FIP. Usually mutates to FIP in kittens and older cats because their immune system is weaker than other cats. She informed me that it is fatal and that there are no treatments. She couldn't give me a time frame for how much longer we had with him, she said worst case, 2 weeks, best a few months. The vet kept him on antibiotics to help his immune system fight off any opportunistic infections, since his body was fighting this horrible virus. He had the wet version of the disease, which means that all of his organs were going to fill with fluid and shut down. This news was so devastating. He was such a joy for all of us, and we were all beyond heartbroken that this was happening to him. The vet informed us that it is usually genetic or a result of bad breeding practices, and is most common in catteries. She advised that we inform the breeder immediately as other cats or kittens may be infected, and if this was the case the breeder should cease breeding these cats to avoid another situation like Zeke's.

Zeke came from Sleekats Cattery in Peabody MA, owned by Donna DiGiovanni. I did not buy Zeke directly from her, but I had previously been in contact with Donna, and my experience with her then was just as frustrating then. I wrote Donna an email, informing her what the vet had told me and how broken and upset we all were over this terrible news. Donna's response to my email was very upsetting on many different levels. Her first response to the original email was "I want you to take Zeke here and care for him, for I may be able to save his life" (keep in mind, no treatment, no cure, no progress in 20 years of research with this virus. Also highly contagious, and she wants me to bring him to her cattery) I responded with the information the vet provided about the virus, and asked her what she thought she could do for him that the vets wouldn't be able to. I also expressed that I wanted to spend every moment I could with him if he only had a short time left. We continued to email back and fourth, a total of 9 emails. She asked various questions about his condition and what I was feeding him. She used these correspondents as an opportunity to boast about what a great breeder she was, how knowledgeable she was and how vets and breeders all over the country call her for advice. She also insinuated that I poisoned him, by feeding him a diet with fish in it, as, according to her, cats absolutely can not eat fish. (I fed Zeke Orijen cat food, no grain, all natural, not outsourced, basically the best dry food you can buy) She also, in all 9 emails, did not ONCE say she was sorry, did not offer ONE comforting, or consoling word to me. I informed Donna the day I learned this bad news, July 5th 2013. After this series of emails, I did not hear from her ever again, to check in, to see how he was doing, to see if any of her suggestions worked. NOTHING, not ONE word.

In the following month and a half, I switched Zeke to a raw diet and he showed signs of improvement, his belly shrank down a little, he started to gain some weight back and he was more lively. It was short lived unfortunately, but we were grateful that even for a few weeks he could enjoy us as he used to before he was ill. In the weeks to follow, we watched Zeke deteriorate rapidly right before our eyes. It was the most heartbreaking experience I have ever had to go through. His belly swelled back up and he lost so much weight you could see every bone in his body. He didn't have much of an appetite and didn't really want to move around much. He was just a baby, and it is such a horrible virus and it just was not fair that he was taken from us. We love him so much and we are all so devastated.

Zeke was born on August 14, 2012. He was diagnosed with FIP July 5th 2013. The day after his first birthday, August 15th 2013, I had to have him put down, it broke my heart.

Donna also called and left me a voicemail in July, along with our exchange of emails. In which she was aloof and didn't seem to care at all. She informed me that this was the SECOND cat out of 113 litters to get FIP (The other one wasn't her fault either…) The general statistic for FIP is 1 in every 5, 000 cats, Donna's statistic however... if you average 4-6 kitten per litter, lets say 5. So 5 X 113 = 565 kittens average, in her career as a breeder. Out of 565 TWO have had full blown FIP. 1 in every 282 of Donna's cats has FIP, in comparison to 1 in 5, 000. WOW. I am writing this in hopes that no one else would every have to go through this horrible and painful experience. If this woman is breeding and selling FIP or coronavirus positive cats, she should be shut down. No one should have to experience what we went through with Zeke. Her cats could have the dormant version of the coronavirus, and when she breeds them, she's passing it down to the kittens, and Zeke's sad story could be a reality for someone else. Based on her behavior, it is quite clear, SHE DOES NOT CARE ABOUT THESE CATS, AND DOES NOT CARE ABOUT THE PEOPLE WHO BUY THEM. The only thing she is concerned about is the money in her bank account.

We posted Zeke's story on sphynxlair.com and the response was overwhelming. We are so appreciative for all the prayers and support. We also got a lot of interesting responses with people expressing their frustrations with their dealings with Donna as well. Many complained she was pushy, rude, unprofessional, condescending, and bullied them if they had any disagreement with her. Based on my interactions with Donna, I would definitely agree with every one of these. I would strongly suggest if you are buying a sphynx kitten, DO NOT BUY FROM THIS BREEDER, DONNA DIGIOVANNI SKEEKATS CATTERY. If you do, you should be prepared for a potentially horrible outcome with your new kitten, and also be prepared for the headache of dealing with her. If you have already purchased a kitten from Sleekats Cattery, I would suggest you educate yourself on FIP. If anyone has any questions I would be more than happy to answer them, I would also be happy to provide all of the email and voicemail correspondents with Donna, or pictures of Zeke to show the horrible reality of what this disease does. I am opening up my life and Zeke's story, in hopes to deter even one person from purchasing a kitten from this breeder. If she is breeding cats with the coronavirus, she should be shut down, period. I would not wish what we went through on anyone.

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65 comments
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greenspace
, US
Nov 10, 2019 11:05 pm EST

I'm so glad I Googled this breeder before emailing her!

It looks like she is overbreeding those poor babies! Even if the illnesses weren't her fault, the way she has responded to all these people is so unappealing! I would not trust someone who is so reactive and so unprofessional online.

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Excal79
, US
Aug 18, 2019 8:05 pm EDT

Donna is a beautiful person inside and out and she loves her babies sad people have to slander

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Spynx Cat
, US
Jul 16, 2019 5:35 pm EDT

Buyer beware of Sleek Cats.
This woman is a nut inbreeding kitties for a quick buck.
Her home is filthy, reeks of cat urine, the cats are dirty and have tail stud.
Why did I look past the obvious?
Live and learn.
I was just contacted today 07/16/19 via Yelp by a woman who also purchased a cat from Sleek Cats with feline herpes.
Please check Yelp, there are numerous pictures of cats with conjunctivitis as a result of feline herpes.
To treat your sick kitties condition I recommend Dr. Michele Willis at VCA City cats.
She is a feline eye specialist who treated both of my kittie's, so she is familar with the cats' health issues.

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TK1990
, US
Jun 04, 2019 4:41 pm EDT

My partner and I got Sleekats JET (Eugene) from Donna in 2013 and he has never been anything but 100% healthy and is the friendliest cat anyone has ever met. If you've been to Donna's house, you'd know what a psycho she is about taking care of these cats. She does everything in the world to make sure these cats are safe and well provided for before they leave her care, and even after (she was very responsive when we had any questions about food or even sweater materials.)
While Donna may come off as strange and obsessive to some, that's exactly how I would want someone caring for these animals to act.
A story I tell everyone was when we went to go pick Eugene up, we brought a sweater that was too big for him and upon seeing this, Donna ran to her room and came out with one of her husbands big wolly socks and made a makeshift sweater for him with some scissors that actually fit him incredibly well. Meanwhile her husband had this look on his face that said "same [censored] as always..."
Donna is great and provided us with the best cat I have ever met, he's my best friend and I don't know what I'd do if I hadn't met him. All of our interactions with her were positive, she comes off as a little brash at times but it's only because she cares about the cats and knows how people can be. She cares about these cats more than your feelings, it seems like she did everything she could. If she didn't say "sorry the cat died", I don't think that's cause to leave a bad review attacking her business. Animals die, a lot. Especially ones that are genetically engineered by hundreds of years of in-breeding. I mean, look at these things. The best we can do is hope to get a good one out of the bunch and be thankful that we have someone like Donna who is there to offer help.

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M. Despres
, US
Oct 31, 2018 10:36 am EDT
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Hello. I am currently doing general research on the breed to decide whether or not I’d like to add a hairless cat to my current pride of 3- two DSH and one lilac point Siamese who is my bff. We lost a sweet 14 year old girl two months ago and we feel like we are almost ready for another kitty. I love the idea of a Sphynx. My heart melts when I see photos or videos of them. They seem to have personalities similar to my Siamese and he is just a joy, adding to my life in ways that I never imagined. I love all my kitties but he demands my full attention and is bonded very strongly to me. I am his momma.

I came across the website for Sleekcats Cattery and decided to do the responsible thing and look up reviews, so here I am. I must say, the arguing back and forth on this complaint board is a huge deterrent. Now I’m a reasonable person and a responsible pet owner. I understand that [censored] happens. It is my understanding that FIP can be carried into a home by a human coming into contact with an infected animal and then handling their own. I believe it can even be carried in on ones shoes. So who knows if these kittens are arriving home infected or acquiring the disease once they are brought home. Also, I cannot imagine that there is any link between contagious disease and feeding a fish based diet. That being said, I recently advised a friend of mine to avoid fish based cat food for her cats, as I’ve learned that there may be a correlation between fish based diet and feline allergies.

As a person looking to purchase a kitten, I would request copies of clean health records and veterinary references from the breeder on every cat in the household, whether used for breeding or not. A good breeder would not be opposed to this and would provide them free of charge to a potential buyer. Any cat used for breeding should have yearly titers drawn along with their annual physical. It is super important. I think it is the responsibility of anyone looking to purchase a lifelong companion to do their homework and that it will be appreciated by the breeder and let them know that you are a serious owner and that their kitten will be well cared for. I am 100% against ordering and shipping an animal that I have not personally met, handled, spent time with and observed. I couldn’t care less about color or sex. It’s health and personality that I’m after.

I know nothing about any of you who are posting on this board, but know that the public banter back and forth is a huge turn off. I would suggest in the future that complaints are handled in private. Good luck to everyone and I’m so sorry for your mutual loss.

Kind Regards,

Michelle Despres

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Maureena
, US
Sep 21, 2018 1:34 pm EDT

Breeders like these ruin the breed and cause all kinds of health issues that needn't happen. If a kitten/cat dies from FIP it's because they were exposed to coronavirus period! There would not be an issue to mutate into FIP if they were never exposed to coronavirus in the first place. It comes down to money and money only. If their breeding cats have coronavirus, that would mean they'd have to stop breeding their cats and start with new stock, because one one gets it, they all get it. That's much too costly, so they'd rather keep breeding carriers than replace all their cats. That's the truth, but irresponsible breeders would not want to incur those costs and blame it on the new owners. These are not televisions they are selling, but living breathing beings that do not deserve this treatment. It's obvious she's in it for the money and not for the love of the breed. Pathetic, unconscionable people is what they are. Stop breeding sickly cats, you [censored]!

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reCAPTCHA
, US
Apr 13, 2016 12:11 pm EDT
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I have a hairless Peterbald from Sleekats and she is perfectly healthy with an amazingly sweet personality.
At the time, Donna told us that she feeds her cats Purina's Healthy Kitten Formula, and gives them fresh chicken every day for the extra protein. She explained in detail how she boils the chicken for a long time until it gets really soft, then pulls off the fatty remnants (easier when the chicken is still warm), then cuts/breaks it into little chunks and freezes them.
We’ve followed her recommendations for both the dry food, and the boiled chicken, and our cat has never had any health issues. She adores the warm chicken treats she gets for breakfast and dinner every day.
Donna had even warned us not to feed here anything with fish, or high in fat or dairy. She also explained that if we noticed anything wrong, to call her first and foremost prior to taking her to a vet. Her reasoning was that people take their sick animals to the vet daily, and the longer she’s at the vet, the higher the chances of her contracting something are. These cats are more susceptible, especially as kittens. Not only that, but this is not a very common breed-- our large local vet hospital had never heard of the breed before. Donna has had years of experience with them. She knows what she’s talking about, and I don’t doubt her at all.
Sure, Donna can be a little brash sometimes, but I appreciate her to-the-point attitude. She’s not fake and tells it how it is. Her hyperbolic rants in her Boston accent are amusing and informative. Just because she doesn’t come off as overly-nice or compassionate, doesn’t mean she doesn’t care.
She’s not in the hospitality industry. Breeding is her business, not making people feel warm and fluffy.
Despite not being the politest person, or the best communicator, she is an excellent breeder and a wonderful person.
Someone went through a heartbreaking ordeal then channeled their emotions towards Donna. I think it’s sad that they turned around and spent so much time and effort to try and ruin Donnas reputation and business.
I also think it’s common for people to get angry when they have to be defensive constantly. She was clearly stressed out about the ordeal and the attacks on her business in her reply to kimberly112682. Was it the best response? No. But, I’m not going to hate her for it. She’s human, and is prone to poor reactions just like everyone else.
I will always advocate for Donna and her cats.

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Jamie1234
Hampstead, US
Jan 18, 2015 9:20 pm EST

This wacko breeder has now moved and changed the name of her cattery! She is now calling her cattery HairlessPeterbaldSphynx
Please share this to warn others

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kimberly112682
Dartmouth, US
Oct 07, 2014 9:16 pm EDT

I began researching breeders recently and came across sleekattery, I read a few complaints and decided to ask her about them. I very politely asked her to shed some light, honestly I thought she would out my mind at ease. I was wrong. This is what I received:

Listen I am so done defending myself agianst a sociopath. I tried taking her to court when she first aquired my kitten and could not due to the fact that I did not sell her the kitten and she lived out of state in Manchester, N.H. The cat died from her neglect and abuse. She put my kitten w/a severely sick adult rescue cat Normand who had "various infections, crusty eyes, severe retal bleeding and severe diarrhea". Not only did Katie Pasqulie put this kitten w/this sick rescue cat but also fed my kitten an all fish diet which I told her an all fish diet can posion & kill a cat. She continued to feed the baby this as well.
hmmm ...if I have strep throat would you drink out of my glass? So why was my baby allowed to be around this rescue cat and share food, water and litter box. His life was domed from the start.
She has never been to my house ever nor does she know who I am. It is so easy to blame me rather than be held accountable for what they have done. I contacted her when I found out thru Face Book client that has 3 of my cats, that Katie had my kitten. Lauren Graziano who posted the kitten on FB refused to even tell me who the owner was until I threatened her with an injunction then she had no choice but devulge who the real owner was. Lauren Graziano, who is Katie's brother's GF, told me all about Normand the severely sick rescue cat. She too is a piece of crap who should also be held accountable for this kitten's death. This woman has posted under my cattery name on different sites using fake names.
I think my track record speaks for itself through out the last 10 years and 135 adopted litters. So all my 135 litters of cats have all died?
How in the world would she know anything about my cats? She is an extremly SICK person.
And there is absolutly nothing I can do about it!
I do however have to say that it has caused me more added stress to be questioned by you a complete stranger who also has never been to my home or seen my cats.
Ask Katie & Lauren where they recommend you get a cat from seeing they are the experts.
Good Luck in your quest for finding a hairless Peterbald.
Donna

I think the email I received speaks for itself. The way she treated me was unnesssasary, I hope no one else has the misfortune of dealing with this unprofessional, mean woman.

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Sleekts Cattey
Boston, US
Jun 15, 2014 9:21 pm EDT

There is NO such client w/that name. If your so called "friend" has an issue w/me then your so called "friend" should be posting the post and not you. If you know the name of this so called friend then POST IT! You seem to think I am a millionaire. I don't even have a cell phone, car, health insurance and receive no funds from any government welfare plan. You are to dictate how much money and how many kittens that I breed a year? Seeing that my cats only have 1 to 3 kittens per litter. I currently have a whapping litter of ONE right now. And you also seem to know how many cats i have and how many rooms they are? You have never even been in my home now have you? Just for your info the cats have 5 rooms in my house and they are all separated. My house cats hang together but my breeders are all separated. I do screen my clients little miss know it all. I just sent back not one to two deposit checks for red flags came up. I do NOT sell to just anyone. You seem to think you know who I am. I'm telling you I am just the opposite of what you think. If I told you what I spend on my cats you would drop dead. I have every single receipt to prove it. When you called the MSPCA the other day and said that I had sick Sphynx cats in my home, I had nothing to hide so I allowed the MSPCA to come into my home and check out my cats and there rooms. They said that I was "a responsible breeder" and when I asked three different times what they felt I should do to improve, they said "Nothing".

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hby
Beverly, US
Jun 14, 2014 1:45 pm EDT

Does the name Raf ring a bell to you? Perhaps you should stop boasting about the HUGE number of litters you have bred in a decade. How many in a year does that equal out to be? That amount of cats in a cattery only adds to the diseases being picked up. And what do you do with the kittens/cats you take back for you to cure that have FIP? You are now exposing all of your other cats to a fatal disease. That doesn't seem to me to be a caring breeder. That's a breeder out for MONEY ALONE. And it seems like a lot of sick kittens from one breeder in a short amount of time. Then to blame the illnesses on the food, new owners, cats already in the new owners home, getting the cats fixed and picking up all the same viruses at different animal clinics? If it's the new owners faults perhaps you should be screening new owners better if you are such a "caring breeder". You should really think before you go spewing this ridiculous hypocritical banter of yours. Just adds to all the inexperience of a quality breeder.

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Brandy-Ann
Boissevain, CA
Jun 14, 2014 7:55 am EDT
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I retract all my previous comments Please make your own decisions as I am not slandering just have decided as a Peterbald breeder not to go this direction again.

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Sleekts Cattey
Boston, US
Jun 13, 2014 11:56 pm EDT

Really what is the name of this so called friend of yours and where are they from? Please do say?

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hby
Beverly, US
Jun 12, 2014 9:45 am EDT

A friend of mine just returned a kitten purchased from Donna because he has FIP. How long is this going to continue?!?!?

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Crazyhorsefarm
Westminster, US
Apr 25, 2014 10:15 am EDT
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Another thing that is really confusing me is who and why eBay keeps being mentioned. No one can sell a live animal on eBay. So how is it that that is stated over and over again. If any of the above posters can clarify that it would be greatly appreciated, because either someone is lying or very mistaken. I am posting a screen shot of the eBay rules just to back up what I am saying. Just as anyone claiming factual info should.

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Brandy-Ann
Boissevain, CA
Apr 23, 2014 5:13 pm EDT
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Orijin cat food has fish vitamin b12 is fish! you fed your cat fish if you fed it orijin cat food. This company makes 3 types of cat food they all say fish or vitamin b 12

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Brandy-Ann
Boissevain, CA
Apr 23, 2014 4:04 pm EDT
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Shame on You all!
FIP is a vets cop out word for a variety of things. Peterbald cats have very little genetic information write On them and most vets guess. As for the eye products shame on you all again. The genetics that cause peterbalds to be hairless can also can cause eye moisture problems. It's not an eye infection or problem. It's not caused by an illness. Breeders tell you about medications because they care about there kittens. A Peterbald is cared for around the clock bottle fed as well as eye meds as they can be born with open eyes. going from any environment to a new home can cause a Peterbald to get sick especially if it's not cared for properly by the new owners. In the case of e bay SHAME on you for buying on there in the first place. An e bay seller selling a live animal doesn't love it enough to have cared for it properly. You got a cat off e bay think about it. Don't blame the breeder a year later.

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Brandy-Ann
Boissevain, CA
Apr 23, 2014 3:29 pm EDT
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Sleekats is a Great cattery. Donna cares for her animals with great care and love. We have 2 of her cats. She produces healthy well adjusted cats and kittens. You will find very few Peterbald breeders that care as much as she does about both her clients as well as her cats. She is a great person and a great breeder. Always willing to help and aid in the care of Peterbald cats. Donna is very helpful and informative. All of my cats have been blood tested and are in Very Good health. Keep doing what you are Donna you are great at it .

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Crazyhorsefarm
Westminster, US
Mar 19, 2014 10:42 am EDT
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To ml1987 first if you want to sound intelligent learn to spell or at least use spell check. And after a year in your possession you honestly believe it is related to the breeder? If you had the cat properly vet checked immediately after purchase and the proper testing done and that was the case then you would be correct in placing blame, but since I see none of that it leads me to believe you are simply full of ### and joining the lets bash the breeder party for some unknown reason. My question to all of you is why? If you can prove your statements post it, until then shut up. Seriously. If I was that hell bent on bashing someone I would make damn sure I could do it with facts and not ignorance and definitely not make myself sound stupid which most of these claims are, you can't have these or any animal for a significant amount of time, not provide proper care and then say its the breeders fault. Really? ### Donna why didn't you tell me pistachios were bad and would not digest and block his intestine, it's all your fault! Just kidding! See the logic?

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Sleekts Cattey
Boston, US
Mar 19, 2014 10:02 am EDT

The picture is Sleekats Coach

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Sleekts Cattey
Boston, US
Mar 19, 2014 9:56 am EDT

RESPONDING TO ML1987 Molly Long from New York
Hi Donna! 12/27/2013
It's been almost a year since we brought this guy home and i just wanted to send you a pic :)
He's such a sweet joy to have around. He follows me everywhere at home and always has to be laying on top of me. He also plays fetch with his favorite toys!
Best, Molly Long
AMAZING how FAKE you are. Why should I have to take the responsibility of your lack of care. Sleekats Coach was not given to you sick well over a year ago. Your foundation hair coated Peterbald cat Lucifer does not require the eye & ear medications that my absolute hairless cat Sleekats Coach requires. Coach has no eye lashes or hair furnishings in the ears, therefore these medications are required for the care dear. You did get this information and it was discussed prior to Sleekats Coach going home. If you did not like this then you should have stuck w/your back yard breeder. Sleekats Coach was vaccinated three times against herpes, can you say the same for Lucifer? When a cat gets respiratory virus a Vet will say it is herpes, like the common cold. This is the winter and a bald cat needs extra heat. Take your clothes off and walk around naked and see if you don't get sick. Amazing how I should be held responsible. No YOU and YOU alone need to be held accountable for the care for this animal. No one twisted your wrist and told you to purchase a kitten from my cattery. If your other cat Lucifer was so great then you should have purchased your second cat from the same breeder seeing there are plenty of Petertbald breeders in New York. Of forgot, Lucifer was from a backyard breeder and you had to get it vaccinated which means the cat never had it's 5, 10 and 12 week of age vaccination preventing herpes virus. 80% of my clients have 2 - 6 cats from me and accept full responsibility of their care for I have had 125 litters to date. When Coach came to Molly Long, a retail worker in New York, her hair coated foundation Peterbald cat Lucifer would stalk Coach not allowing Coach to use the litter box. Molly told me this. I told Molly to get two litter boxes which she refused. At this point I was in fear for my baby Sleekats Coach. I told Molly I would purchase a cage, hammock, food & water dishes and send them to her work so that she could put my Coach in it and I would take Coach back. Oh at my expense by the way...once again she refused. I wanted my baby protected against her dominate alpha cat Lucifer. I told her to go get the cat neutered which she still did not at that point in time. I tried everything in my power to relieve the situation. At my house Coach, who was to be a stud cat, was in my bedroom with another male future stud cat Sleekats Stage. Coach always used the litter box therefore I knew this was a case of her jealous male alpha cat Lucifer. Once AGAIN, if you are going to tell a STORY tell the truth and the whole story. Never do they include my bending over backwards to help.
Molly had sent pictures of her Lucifer to me and wrote this -
"Here are a few pictures of my angel! FYI - the collar he is wearing looks like a flea collar but he wears the calming collars"

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Ml1987
Brooklyn, US
Mar 07, 2014 12:14 am EST

I too have a cat from Donna.. He was also diagnosed with feline heroes and have it to our other peterbald, who had been very healthy until we brought one of donna's pets into our home. I forgot what excuse she gave for his eyes when we got him, but when I told my vet that she had given me antibiotics with the cat, they informed me that that was a bad sign. She will not ever accept responsibility and what she is doing to these cats is so cruel!

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Crazyhorsefarm
Westminster, US
Mar 02, 2014 12:01 pm EST
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Ok my name is cris gagne and i own a peterbald from sleekcats cattery. I signed a contract was well informed about everything and have done exactly as i was supposed to do and my 3 yr old has been fine until recently. He ate a pistachio this is completely my fault however because something you all have completely failed to acknowledge is that these cats are genetic mutations. This creates a lot of underlying issues that neither the vet, breeder or owner can predict. My vet is fantastic and she had to research the breed because he was failing to respond to some antibiotics. And everyone wants to blame the breeder? I dont get it. When you buy or obtain an exotic animal this is part of what you take on the kitten could have been exposed at the vet for gods sake and no one wants to think about that. Donna advised me not to go to a vet but to have one come to my home, not only for the comfort of my animal but to try and limit the exposure to illnesses that are obviously at a vet clinic as most animals go there because they are sick. I truly think donna has been wonderful to me answered every question i have had and i have never had a problem contacting her or any kind of bad attitude from her. And think about what you are saying even if she is in it only for the money, which is still okay, wouldnt it make sense to care for and have decent animals? Everyone always wants to blame everyone else no one can reflect and take any blame upon themselves which to me is just being ignorant. Again ypu are buying a geneticly mutated animal i did all my research and i knew what i was getting into. And if i wasnt consiensous my cat may have died and i certainly wouldnt blame the vet or the breeder. Seriously people i know it sucks to lose a pet but how long is the breeder responsible? Someone really needs to tell me that. And i sincerely hope she sues anyone that is being slanderous because its so easy for people to talk ### and remain anonomous. If you really believe she is neglegent and you can prove it then take her to court instead of talking ### . I would if i paid that kind of money and could prove she was a bad breeder otherwise its slander. So back it up or back it off. Simple You have to really be ignorant if you think anyone would invest that much time and energy and not care i wouldnt tolerate half the ###s she does.

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johnny978
lowell, US
Mar 01, 2014 4:05 pm EST

DONT ALWAYS BELIEVE WHAT PEOPLE SAY. MEET HER IN PERSON AND MAKE YOUR OWN JUDGEMENT. I MET HER, SHE IS EVERYTHING YOU WANT IN A BREEDER. IF YOU DONT BELIEVE ME, YOU SHOULD TAKE A TRIP TO HER CATTERY.

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LLLT
Account Killer, US
Feb 15, 2014 10:26 am EST
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I had posted on 1/30/2014, since then I have not made any comments. I am not clear as to why Donna keeps ruminating on my conversation with her. Yes, Donna asked me to trust her again, and made an offer of a kitten in the future. I thought that we may have worked out some sort of agreement, an older cat. I even offered to pay for the spay and blood work. I had e-mailed Donna a couple of times with no response. After careful thought, I believed it may be best to pass on her offer. There are many reasons why, The primary being the inability for clear communication and a special situation in reference to the health of my other sphynx cat. I want my relationship with the breeder to be positive and I would like to trust that we have a good and honest agreement and not in the shadow of a threat for legal actions. I am moving forward, our family would like to put this behind us. Best of luck to you Donna, I wish your cattery a healthy future.

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Sleekts Cattey
Boston, US
Feb 05, 2014 8:37 pm EST

I did offer Laurie three times to get the cat and Laurie Tucker refused. Why should i pay for the vet bills when the cat was clearly mis diagnosed as a "food allergy" and not a reaction to a Rabies shot that Laurie Tucker herself told me on Jan. 28, 2014. A couple of months means two. Stella was born 02/22/2012 which you took home at 12 weeks of age and died after Christmas 2013. Do the math ...you had the cat for over 8 months not two months. You always leave important information out to make your "Stella's" story more plausible for you. You also neglected to tell everyone that you wanted to get a third cat from me. hhmmm odd you forgot to write that statement although I do have it in an e-mail that you sent me on Jan. 30, 2014. "Any more thoughts on Lux? I know she may be promised". Your now saying I said you poisoned your cat?
MLTC you NEVER purchased any dogs off from me for I do NOT breed DOGS. I guess you need to be included in the defamation and libel suit as well. I will go file a complaint tomorrow in Civil court.

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LRRG
West Warwick, US
Feb 04, 2014 6:58 pm EST
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MLTC
Your comment is so very true.
Whether it be a dog, cat or horse all animals are indeed loved by the persons who purchase them. (Hoping their pet lives a long and healthy life) only to live a couple of months is devastating. No money can bring our beloved pets back.
As you commented, half the money or monies towards vet bills would be helpful, but not even a (I'm so sorry for the loss of your kitten) was given! She yelled at us accusing we had poisoned our babies! Cruel and so untrue accusation!
I think about my baby everyday and some days I ball my eyes out wishing I could hold him one more time.
The above breeder just can not except that (corona) NOT (FIP) is in her cattery.
No one has slandered her.
People who have dealt with her are baffled at the way she handled and continues to handles clients.
#We the people who have dealt with her are getting the message out to future clients, so they don't have their hearts broken.#

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MLTC
, US
Feb 04, 2014 3:07 pm EST

I am sorry But I am a dog owner and have bought 3 dogs from the same breeder. When my 1st Puppy came his dew claw had grown back a bit, which for a hunting dog is not good, we called and he offered to pay to have it removed or discount us on another pup. We opted to wait, which worked out and we indeed bought a 2nd pup which we got 2 discounts. When the 2nd pup came with a bug from the warm area we purchased them He immediately thanked me for letting him know about this, and offered to pay our vet bills in full.I recently purchased #3 I know it is a cat complaint sight, but the difference between a "REAL BREEDER" & a person who OVERBREEDS! It seems like at $1200 a kitten with 6 kittens she has gained more and the families have lost their babies, their money, not to mention countless vet bills. A GOOD breeder would at least reimburse half of the kitten price or vet bills! Just my opinion, I have seen so many bad breeds come from over breeding I do volunteer at a shelter. I am sorry for those of you that have lost Kitties/family members MLT!

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Sleekts Cattey
Boston, US
Feb 04, 2014 7:19 am EST

I did send Laurie Tucker from New York an e-mail asking her to call me. Laurie did call and we spoke for 2.1/2 hours. I told her that all my future kittens will be tested and that way no one will say FIP initiated in my cattery. No one has proved FIP by any narcropsy, not even you Laurie Tucker. By the way, when Calyssi had the narcropsy done after death, it did "NOT "come back positive for FIP. We now think there is a connection w/this Rabies vaccine. Laurie told me you were going to have a narcropsy done but you did not. I knew at that point you had something to fear. I think you were afraid that this test would not have a positive to FIP and all your statements now would have proved to be libel. All along this horrible journey you told me this cat just got sick and had never been to a vet prior. You just admitted to me on Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2014, "that after the cat's Vet visit where the vet gave the cat a Rabies shot that the cat got ill with fever, rash and was scratching her face and neck". You told me something about "egg being in the rabies vaccine". You also told me your very own "Vet told you that her cats all have corona virus" and you told me that "90 percent of cats carry corona". You told me that Lori, a client of mine in Rhode Island, who she and her partner own two of my cats, when test for corona virus that it was "NEGATIVE to any corona virus". Why would all of you would keep this from me. Not one of you have publicly apologized for this slander and loss of my reputation as a breeder.
I am currently searching for a Pro Bono attorney to file Declamation of Character, Libel and Mental Anguish law suit to try and prevent this from happening again to other people. No one should have the right to destroy one's reputation prior to a court of law saying that those statements were proved to be true. I was publicly lynched without a trial.

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LLLT
Account Killer, US
Jan 30, 2014 12:16 pm EST
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Dear Readers,
In reference to my previous post on the subject relating to my kitten Stella, I want to further report that Donna from Sleekats Cattery has gone out of her way to contact me recently to give her apologies to our unfortunate situation . Donna has been forthcoming to inform me of her changes and great attempts to go through and over her cattery to insure the health of her future kittens and breeding program. I am more than moved by Donna's sincere sacrifice in time and hard work that has brought her to the realization the need for change. The sphynx is a very special breed of cat and in the life of a breeder that deals with instilling health and integrity of the sphynx, this is a great undertaking. To have problems arise as such that had happened, is not uncommon, what sets a breeder apart from another in this case is how the problem is dealt and managed. Thank you very much Donna for what you have set out to do. I know that you will be successful with your new start, I will continue to support efforts for a future free of FIP and to hopefully be a voice for those that may need guidance. I will place hope for other breeders that they may follow your example (with less pain) to find a way to overcome this adversity. Peace

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slynn1
Orange, US
Jan 24, 2014 8:13 pm EST
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I find what you say Mark Hall suspect since this is the only post you have posted on. When I got my cats from a breeder they were healthy and did not have health issues, besides my silver Bengal's allergies! I got a discounted price because of that! A ethical breeder would not even answer on a complaint board, or in the very least show some compassion for the loss the customer's felt. Which she did not! There is no cure for this disease, and eventually the cat will die from it. It is heartbreaking! The kittens were under the care of a vet, which is an expert at the best way to handle this disease. She should look into her breeding program if 5 or 6 kittens have died of this disease and stop breeding her females! It is sad when a breeder is just in it for the money!

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mark_hall
Cranston, US
Jan 23, 2014 9:11 am EST
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I totally agree with this breeder for he is the one who truly knows his breed. I have been to the website and it is by far the most informative website i have seen. The things i do notice is that what few complaints this breeder has. How 2 people can put such trash about this breeder without proof is total slander and a defamation of character suit should be filed. Where does this LLLT who never says her name or address, get her information from. Had she listened to this breeder perhaps her cat would be alive. How selfish of you not to let the breeder take that kitten back the three times this breeder asked. You were not an expert on this cats care now were you. Your story changes repeatedly. It also looks like this Laurie Tucker has made dummy accounts which she is complimenting herself. shame on you. You also write that fip did not initiate in this cattery. So what are you complaining about. If your cat died it died under your care with the choices you made and you made alone and no one else. A food allergy is not fip.

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LRRG
West Warwick, US
Jan 19, 2014 9:42 am EST
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Good morning to the complaint board,
I have a few questions that I would like correct answers to. First question is for Calyssi: as a DVM, do you see a (connection, pattern, problem) regarding the cattery mention in all of the above posts? FIVE beloved kittens known to have died from FIP. You did not give a time frame when your kitten/cat pasted from FIP. Since August 2013 starting with Zeke,
1 in September/ October, 2 in December. (I known there is 1 other but do not recall the month) If your baby died this year that is 6! Way to many for coincidence!
Corona is a virus that is known to be found in catteries and houses that have more than 6 cats. The kittens and cats become stressed, whether it be from neuter/spaying or stress from getting immune i.e.: rabies vaccine. In regards to Clindamycin it might help at the start of the corona virus, masking what the cat is going to succumb to which is the fatal disease FIP.
My bad for not realizing the Cattery we r speaking of, was missing KEY guarantees within the contract! A hard lesson I've learned.
As with LLLT I too was knocked out by the wrath from the owner of the Cattery we speak of. Her behaviors r unacceptable, inexcusable and down right nasty! Professionalism is not a word that describes this owner.
We the people that lost our beloved kittens r devastated beyond grief. No money or another kitten (which was offered by her) will bring our babies back to us. : (

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slynn1
Orange, US
Jan 16, 2014 2:33 pm EST
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Bengals are a handful! I love mine! I have a brown girl as well as a silver girl. My silver has allergies, but besides that very healthy. I have been lucky because they do not have stomach issues as some seem to. Both are well socialized and friendly to our family. I hope LLLT that your kitty gives you as much enjoyment as I have with my two. I am sorry your experience was so horrible. The breeder I used for the Bengals was wonderful and after reading all the complaints about breeder, I realize how lucky I was to find an ethical breeder. I am sorry for your loss, I have lost kitties also, and I know how heartbreaking it can be. I cannot believe how unprofessional this breeder has treated you on these post. If any potential clients read this, and choose another breeder. How she can be so compassionless is beyond me. I hope your experience with your new kitten was positive.

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LLLT
Account Killer, US
Jan 16, 2014 2:16 pm EST
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slynn1- No, I do not have another kitten, Bengals are beautiful

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LLLT
Account Killer, US
Jan 16, 2014 2:15 pm EST
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Thank you Calyssi, You have been most informative, I am actually stumped. I have spent a tremendous amount of time trying to understand what happened. Truthfully, exhausted. Right now I really want to heal. Is there an explanation as to 5 plus cats dying from this cattery within a short period of time with similar lab work and symptoms suggested FIP? may be not. Stella had been diagnosed with IBD and she had unfortunatly developed sensitivities to poultry. Clindamycin had not done a darn thing for her. The end result, she had succumbed to FIP.. I do not wish to rehash all that transpired (it was very difficult to watch this happen)and the the test results that had lead to that conclusion. Her records have been reviewed by a couple of feline internist, all the same conclusion, FIP unles proven otherwise.I opted no necropsy, I wanted to bring her home then and bury her, no more poking her, I was stricken with grief. I would be happy to forward her records to you for review, I did everthing possible. There are alot of emotions involved, it does not help that the person with whom I once trusted became obscene and inappropriate in her behavior. Again..there are many things I refuse to share, I can also copy and paste conversation, I will not go there as it would never end. What I can say right now, my efforts at this point will be to help raise funds and awareness for FIP research. I also have done my homework, when you go through this, you do become well informed. I do not believe Donna had a malicious intention, no doubt she loves these kitties yet there is a problem that has arose and I will stand my ground, the breeding program may very well need adjusting. Other catteries have had this happen, they also recover.I too have had at one point a good rapore with Donna. There was at one point a SNAP. details are not needed. I will pass along to those who I am in contact with your experience with clindamycin as a "barrier of defense" . Maybe it will be helpful? There is very recent findings in reference to FIP research. As a DVM, you may want to check this out. Peace, I am glad your kitties are well.

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calyssi
Wilmington, US
Jan 14, 2014 9:18 pm EST

As a DVM and having spent much time and research on FIP and the Coronavirus it should be noted that much is still an unknown on WHY cats, dogs and yes people contract the Coronavirus and even more research is needed on exactly WHY this mutates into FIP in cats (Side note; the [protected] outbreak of Sars-CoV virus in humans which caused a pandmic outbreak is a Cornavirus) ...I have had a kitten die of FIP after receiving it's first rabies shot...only a few months passed then I lost her. I contacted her breeder at the onset of her illness and conferred with her...we tried an unusal approach not commonly reconized in the VM field ... the antibiotic Clindamycin. She did extremely well...as I handed her over to her breeder to treat her in a manor which I could not, 24/ 7 care. ( I am receiving Chemo once a week for my own health issues and had to take a short term leave of absence). While in the breeders care she thrived! Only by bringing her home ( on my own decision) was her health comprised again (stress)... she was too weak .
Yes there is no cure for FIP. The Coronavirus however can be somewhat managed with Clindamycin and the right care for your cat (depending upon the breed), this does not mean your cat will NOT develop the FIP virus. Right now there is no clear reason why one cat develops it an another does not... I also have the twin brother to my kitten that passed from FIP and he is healthy, happy and beautiful almost a year later...titer count on his blood work 1/400... A very good count. Yes he was treated with Clinamycin early on after his sister became ill... it may not be a cure but does seem to provide a barrier of defense against the futher mutation into FIP...not a cure. I have 3 healthy and beautiful Peterbalds
all from the same breeder...Donna DiGiovanni ...Sleekats Cattery.
Donna loves all her cats and takes what she does very seriously...and has been a great help in my research. For those who have found her rude and defensive... I have only found her to be gracious and very helpful...perhaps it could be in the approach to the subject matter... emotions run very high when someone loses a beloved pet. I personally know as a fact that Donna takes full pre-cautions (as much as any breeder could) to insure that all her cats are healthy...nor do I believe that she would sell a kitten that she thought in any way could have a health issue.
To claim that Donna is a bad breeder is like trying to say that one can predict who will or will not get cancer in their lifetime...right now we do not have that full capability Donna is an excellent breeder with a great record over many years. So before passing judgement please try and learn as many facts as you can... before buying or adopting any pet.

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slynn1
Orange, US
Jan 08, 2014 8:22 pm EST
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LLTL have you gotten another kitten? I am sorry for the loss of yours. I hope so and it is horrible the breeder would attack you after you lost your cat to such a horrible unreadable disease. My experience was wonderful with my two bengals. I hope your next experience is better. God bless and I hope there is a special place in he'll for unethical breeders.

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Sleekts Cattey
Boston, US
Jan 07, 2014 8:14 pm EST

OMG sociopath which is it a Food allergy, FIP or Lymphoma or all three? as you can tell I read just bits & pieces of your ###!

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Sleekts Cattey
Boston, US
Jan 07, 2014 9:47 am EST

Laurie your statement above - "It is unfortunate that this has to continue, I will hold my ground as you well know. I understand your dispute and I know all about FIP, It did not initiate from your cattery." -
Laurie not only did you send me an e-mail stating "FIP initiated in my cattery", but you also filed a complaint with TICA stating that as well.
And now you know all about FIP really Laurie? Once again, your the expert. Not even been diagnosed up until days prior to Stella's death. Get off your high horse and stop thinking you know it all for you are not a GOD of any sort...Nor am I
Bottom line is, beautiful loving Stella died and your vet did not know how to save her.
IF ONE TAKES THEIR TIME AND READS ALL THE COMMENTS THAT HAVE BEEN WRITTEN, THEY WILL FIND THAT I HAVE BEEN CONSISTENT AND TRUTHFUL IN MY WORDS AND YOU HAVE DANCED AROUND AND CHANGED YOUR STORY REPEATEDLY.
THANKFULLY I HAVE E-MAILS, FB MESSAGES and now this SLANDER SITE TO PROVE ALL THIS.
i am deeply sorry this has happened. I feel your pain so much greater than you will ever know Laurie. This has turned you into a crazy woman. Surely not the woman I once knew and trusted my children with. It does show me how much you Loved my baby and for that I will always be grateful. I am ending all of this now and will not respond to any more any comments. May peace be with you my dear.