Ha, I found two of my pets off craigslist that were probably to young and infested with flees.They cost $10 each and then I got them shots and fixed. Probably saved their lives. The other cat I have just showed up one day out of the blue. The CDS (Cat Distribution System) doesn't work like it does in the dog world. I've never bought a pet from a store either.
Before the Internet was so prevalent, we use to just ask friends and family if they knew anyone that was having kittens. Someone always was or would be soon.
Once this batch of cats passes (ages 18, 12, 11), I'll probably get a rescue cat to give one that needs a second lease on life a good home. We'll see when we get there.
P.S. None of them are chipped and the vet hasn't ratted me out to California yet. I can see chipping a dog, but my cats don't go places. They stay indoors, at home or at the vet. Not safe to let them free roam anyway and they would definitely kill other creatures and get who knows what diseases. Best to keep them in doors or at most, let them use their catio that they can access via an partially open window. Balconies are good too, as they can be screened in easily to keep everyone safe.
Chipping sounds like rent-seeking behavior, at least in the USA. Next, you'll require pet insurance as well. Screw you nanny state folks.