It's always worth spending time carefully checking your prospective pet, to ensure that they get off to the best possible start in life.

Here's what to look for:

Eyes should be clear and bright. No discharge and no sign of the third eyelid.

Nose should be slightly damp but no discharge.

Teeth should be straight and meet top and bottom.

Ears should be clean and free from discharge.

Coat glossy with no signs of dandruff or flea dirts.

Bottom should be clean with no signs of diarrhoea.

Tummy should be slightly rounded, not bloated or hard.

The kitten should be alert and friendly, happy to be handled.

If he is a pedigree, ask about any breed-related problems.

A caring, knowledgeable breeder will not allow a kitten to go to his new home until he has had his vaccinations. This will be at around 12 to 13 weeks.