If you have decided that a Ragdoll cat is right for you, the next step is to find a reputable breeder. A good starting point for finding a reputable Ragdoll breeder is to contact a local Ragdoll club or association. They will be able to provide you with a list of breeders in your area. The Ragdoll Fancier Club is one such organization and there is a link in our “resources” section.
Cat shows are another way to find good breeders; by attending a cat show you will get to see the breeder’s cats and talk with other Ragdoll owners. You can also find Ragdoll cat breeders online; however, the downside about the Internet is that if the breeder is in another state you will probably not be able to visit the cattery in person.
Always purchase a registered Ragdoll kitten; never buy a Ragdoll from a pet store. This is the first step to ensure your cat is truly a Ragdoll and has received the proper care. Kitten mills are notorious for producing sickly or abused cats.
Always visit the breeder in person before purchasing a cat. Just because a breeder is registered with an association does not necessarily mean they are a good breeder; this is why you want to visit their home and see the conditions the kittens are born into. It is extremely important that your Ragdoll kitten spend the first ten weeks of his or her life with its littermates. This is important to ensure you receive a well socialized kitten.
Make sure the kittens are healthy and energetic. Pay close attention to their living conditions. The kittens should not be afraid of humans; it is a bad sign if they are terrified of you when you visit the cattery. Ask to see the parents; this will give you a good idea of how your cat will turn out. Breeders should always keep their litters for at least ten weeks and provide them with their first set of immunization.
Make sure the kitten has papers. It is not necessary for you to register your cat; however, ensuring that the kitten has papers will ensure your cat really is a Ragdoll. Expect to pay between $400 and $600 for your Ragdoll kitten. If the price is unusually low you might question the breeder’s motives for selling the kittens that low.
All reputable Ragdoll cat breeders use a purchase contract when selling kittens. Make sure the purchase contract you sign includes a health guarantee. Your breeder may require neutering or spaying the cat unless you pay an additional fee. The best advice you can hope to receive when shopping for a Ragdoll kitten is to be careful and shop around. Contacting members of the Ragdoll community in your area will help you locate reputable breeders and ensure you receive a healthy, well-adjusted Ragdoll kitten.
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