Today we’d like to introduce you to Ekaterina Kovaleva.
Hi Ekaterina, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My Story
My journey with Oriental cats began in 2019, while I was still living in Russia. At the time, I could never have imagined how deeply this breed would change my life. My first Oriental cat came into my life unexpectedly, but from the very first moment, I felt a connection that was impossible to ignore.
Oriental cats are not just pets — they are incredibly intelligent, sensitive, and emotionally intuitive companions. During a challenging period in my life, they became a source of comfort, stability, and genuine emotional support. Their presence helped me heal, reconnect with myself, and rediscover a sense of joy and purpose.
That experience naturally led me to a deeper passion: I wanted not only to share my life with these extraordinary cats, but also to dedicate myself to breeding them responsibly and thoughtfully. I became committed to preserving and developing the unique qualities of the Oriental breed — their elegance, intelligence, and deeply human-like emotional connection.
In 2021, I moved to North America and brought my cattery with me, continuing my work on a new level. Since then, I have remained fully dedicated to constant learning and growth. I actively collaborate with veterinarians, communicate with experienced breeders, and continue refining my knowledge in feline genetics, health, and behavior.
Today, I am proud to be among a small group of breeders in USA who focus on developing high-quality Oriental cats with exceptional type, temperament, and health. My work goes far beyond breeding — I stay closely connected with every family, offering ongoing support and guidance to ensure that each kitten forms a deep, lasting emotional bond with their new home.
A significant part of my work is connected to emotional support. A large percentage of my kittens — often between 30% and 50% — are placed specifically as emotional support companions. Many families come to me during difficult life periods, sometimes following recommendations from therapists and psychologists. Oriental cats have a truly unique ability to sense human emotions and provide comfort in a way that feels deeply personal and healing. I have witnessed countless stories where these cats have made a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
For me, this is not just a profession — it is a calling. Every kitten I raise carries not only carefully selected genetics, but also love, attention, and the intention to bring real happiness, support, and connection into someone’s life.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road — but I truly believe that the most meaningful journeys never are. One of the biggest challenges was starting and building my cattery while going through major life changes, including relocating from Russia to North America. Moving internationally with animals is a complex and demanding process, both emotionally and logistically. There were moments of uncertainty, delays, and situations where I had to make difficult decisions quickly and responsibly. Another challenge has been maintaining the highest standards in breeding while navigating a market where not everyone shares the same values. I have always prioritized health, temperament, and ethical practices over convenience or profit, and that path requires patience, resilience, and constant learning. There is also an emotional side to this work that many people don’t see. When you raise kittens with so much care and love, letting them go is never easy. At the same time, I often work with families who are going through difficult periods in their lives. Being part of those moments requires empathy, strength, and a deep sense of responsibility. Of course, there have also been practical challenges — from travel disruptions and unexpected veterinary situations to the everyday demands of running a cattery at a high level. But each obstacle has taught me something valuable and helped me grow both professionally and personally.
Looking back, I wouldn’t change anything. Every challenge shaped the way I work today and strengthened my commitment to what I do. This journey has made me not only a better breeder, but also a stronger and more compassionate person.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am the founder of LuxOrio Cattery, specializing in breeding Oriental cats with a strong focus on health, temperament, and refined type. My goal is to raise not just beautiful cats, but deeply social, emotionally connected companions who become a true part of their families.
I am known for my hands-on approach and attention to detail. My kittens are raised in a home environment, with constant human interaction, which helps them develop strong, people-oriented personalities. I also stay closely connected with my clients, offering support long after the kitten goes to its new home.
What sets me apart is the combination of emotional connection and professional dedication. I carefully match each kitten with the right family and continuously improve my work through collaboration with veterinarians and experienced breeders.
For me, this is not just breeding — it’s about creating lifelong bonds and meaningful connections.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Over the next 5–10 years, I believe the industry will move strongly toward higher standards of ethical breeding, transparency, and education. Buyers are becoming more informed and selective — they are not just looking for a specific look, but for healthy, well-socialized animals raised with care and responsibility.
I also see a greater emphasis on quality over quantity. Responsible breeders who focus on genetics, health testing, and proper socialization will stand out more clearly, while low-quality breeding practices will face increasing scrutiny.
At the same time, technology and global communication are making the industry more connected. It is easier than ever to collaborate with breeders internationally, share knowledge, and continuously improve breeding programs.
Overall, I believe the future belongs to breeders who combine professionalism, ethics, and a deep understanding of the emotional bond between people and animals.
Pricing:
- In general, Oriental kittens from reputable breeders in the U.S. typically range from $2,500 to $5,000, reflecting the cost of proper veterinary care, high-quality nutrition, time-intensive socialization, and responsible breeding practices, in addition to factors such as type, pedigree, and individual characteristics.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/favcatsworld
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