ABOUT NORD VELET
MEET OUR FAMILY
We’re Thad and Stephanie Unkefer, and this is our daughter, Addison. Together, we’re the family behind Nord Velet Maine Coons in Northeast Ohio.
Our cats live in our home with us, so raising kittens quickly becomes part of our normal family routine. There’s feeding, cleaning and veterinary care, of course—but also a lot of playing, taking pictures and stopping whatever we’re doing because one of the kittens is being especially funny or cute.
We started Nord Velet because we love the size, appearance and personality of the European Maine Coon. These cats have an incredible presence, but they’re also affectionate, intelligent and happiest when they’re involved in whatever their family is doing.
WHERE IT BEGAN
ZEUS AND ZARYA
We were originally drawn to their black smoke coloring and strong European features, but their personalities are what made us fall in love with the breed.
Zeus is confident, affectionate and curious about everything happening around him. Zarya is playful, attentive and a wonderful mother. They’re our foundation cats, but first and foremost, they’re part of our family.
A FAMILY EFFORT.
Who Does What
Stephanie handles most of the daily kitten care and socialization. She arranges their veterinary appointments and takes many of the photographs you see on our website and social media. Since she spends so much time with them, she usually knows their personalities before anyone else does.
Addison helps Stephanie with kitten care, socialization and photography. Spending time with Addison also gives the kittens experience interacting with another member of the family and becoming comfortable with different people.
Thad helps with kitten care, socialization, veterinary appointments and photography when he can. He oversees the breeding program and manages the website and social media.
We each have different responsibilities, but caring for the cats and kittens is something we do together.
Addison helps Stephanie with kitten care, socialization and photography. Spending time with Addison also gives the kittens experience interacting with another member of the family and becoming comfortable with different people.
Thad helps with kitten care, socialization, veterinary appointments and photography when he can. He oversees the breeding program and manages the website and social media.
We each have different responsibilities, but caring for the cats and kittens is something we do together.
LIFE AT NORD VELET
Raised in Our Home
Our kittens are born and raised inside our home—not in a separate commercial facility.
Because they live with us, socialization happens throughout the day. They become familiar with people, normal household sounds, grooming, play, being photographed and being handled regularly.
Living with the kittens also gives us time to learn who they are. Some are ready to explore as soon as they can walk. Some want to be held. Others would rather turn a photography session into a wrestling match with their siblings.
Knowing their personalities helps us give families an honest description of each kitten and helps us find the home that fits them best.
Health is always our first priority. Our breeding decisions consider genetic testing, veterinary care, temperament, structure and pedigree. Every kitten receives age-appropriate veterinary care and leaves with health records and the information its new family needs.
Nord Velet is registered with both TICA and CFA, but our reputation will ultimately be built by how we raise our kittens, how honestly we communicate and how we treat the families who choose one of them.
Thank you for taking the time to meet us.
