Riley
I love animals, so I'm wanting to be a Vet Technician. I also want to breed cats. Do I need two degrees for that?
I'm asking for a project in my class, and I'm considering choosing this career path. #veterinary #veterinary-medicine #veterinary-technician #veterinarian
4 answers
Charl Moller
Charl’s Answer
Hi Riley,
You will need to study a minimum of a College Degree or Diploma for Vet Technician. You don't need any formal tertiary studies to be a cat breeder. Short courses are a must to enable you to be more prepared and familiar with cats.
Combining the two careers is a great idea, as you may use the experience gained from each to your advantage.
Charl recommends the following next steps:
Thanks so much!
Riley
Courtney Riel
Courtney’s Answer
In Texas, you don't have to have any schooling to be a Vet Tech but you can get a Vet Tech Certificate in 2 years at a junior college through a Associates Degree. You don't have to have any education to breed cats (or dogs), but if you want to be successful at it, you should consider building a reputation in the "cat" world by showing cats. I would suggest you get a pure bred registered cat and start showing it to build your reputation, and then start breeding and selling them.
When my mom was young she used to breed rabbits and sell them. She got a good reputation by showing them and winning a lot of awards so people always wanted to buy her rabbits because they felt like she bred winners.
I will say that in Texas, it's easier to make money as a dog breeder. There are many people looking to buy registered dogs to have as pets, but it seems that the only people looking to buy registered cats are people that show them. That's my experience anyway. Perhaps it's different in South Africa ?
Courtney recommends the following next steps:
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Response:
You don't require dual degrees to become a Veterinary Technician or to breed cats.
For a career as a Veterinary Technician, an associate degree from a recognized veterinary technician program is typically sufficient. This two-year program equips you with essential knowledge and skills to support veterinarians in animal care. As a Vet Technician, your responsibilities would include performing lab tests, giving medications, assisting in surgeries, and providing overall care for animals.
If cat breeding piques your interest, there's no specific degree mandate. However, a comprehensive understanding of feline genetics, breeding techniques, and animal husbandry is vital. You can acquire this knowledge through specialized courses, workshops, or mentorship from seasoned breeders.
Remember, ethical cat breeding involves prioritizing animal health and welfare, curbing overpopulation, and adhering to breed standards established by respected cat associations.
In summary, while a veterinary technology degree equips you for a Vet Technician role, cat breeding doesn't demand a formal degree. Instead, it requires specialized knowledge and experience in feline genetics and breeding techniques.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) - AVMA is a renowned authority in veterinary medicine and education, providing valuable insights into veterinary careers and educational prerequisites.
The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) - As a leading organization committed to feline health and welfare, AAFP's resources on cat breeding practices and guidelines offer invaluable insights into responsible breeding.
National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) - NAVTA standardizes vet tech education and practice. Their information on becoming a Vet Technician can be extremely useful for those contemplating this career.
These sources were pivotal in providing precise and trustworthy information on the educational prerequisites for a Vet Technician and the considerations for cat breeding practices.
GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
Nirah Shomer, DVM PhD DACLAM
Nirah’s Answer
Veterinary Technician requirements vary from state to state. Some states have no required license, others require at least a two year degree plus passing national and local board exams to be licensed. There are restrictions on what licensed vet techs can do, and what unlicensed people (veterinary assistants) can do. (Basically, the latter can clean kennels, walk animals, but not much more).
Your state, Iowa, requires registration, and passing state and national board exams (which requires a degree). https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/aco/agency/811.pdf
Nirah recommends the following next steps: