Bringing a Ragdoll kitten into your home is a big and exciting decision. Ragdoll cats are gentle and affectionate. They are often called puppy cats or dog-like cats. They are popular for their striking blue eyes, soft semi-long colorpoint coat, and massive size. They are incredibly docile and people-oriented. For a first-time buyer, it can be difficult to choose the right Ragdoll cat. That is why it is essential to do your research before you buy a kitten. So you can ensure you are bringing home a happy and healthy Ragdoll cat.
Here are the essential tips to buy a Ragdoll cat for your home.
Choose a Registered, Reputable Breeder
Choosing a reputable breeder is the most important step when buying a Ragdoll kitten. Look for a good breeder registered with well-known cat associations like TICA or CFA. When you contact a good ragdoll breeder, they will always let you visit their home or cattery. The place should be clean and safe. The kitten should be living inside the house as a part of their family. A reputable breeder will show you the mother cat and the father. They will also give you complete papers, including vaccination records, registration papers, and deworming details.
Do Not Fall for Cheap Prices
When you start looking for a Ragdoll kitten, you will see many different prices online. It can be tempting to choose the cheapest one. A healthy, purebred Ragdoll kitten from a good breeder usually costs between $1,200 and $3,000 for a pet kitten. This is because they spend a lot of money on good food, health tests, and proper care. If you see someone selling a purebred Ragdoll for only $400 or $600, it is a scam or a kitten from a bad breeder. It is much better to pay a fair price from an honest breeder than to buy a cheap kitten.
Ask for Health Testing and Guarantees
Before you buy any Ragdoll kitten, you must ask the breeder for health tests and a health guarantee. Ragdoll cats can have two serious health problems in their genes called HCM and PKD. A good breeder will do a DNA test on both the mother and father cats. It will help make sure they do not have these diseases. Ask for a written health guarantee. The breeder should also provide you with a vet checkup paper. It will be proof that the kitten has had its first shots and deworming medicine.
Check the Kitten’s Age and Socialization
When choosing a Ragdoll, ask the kitten’s age and how friendly it is. A Ragdoll kitten should be at least 12 to 14 weeks old when you buy it. In the first 12 weeks, the kitten needs to stay with its mother and brothers and sisters. During this period, they learn how to play and how to use the litter box. When you meet the kitten, it should be playful and curious. Try to hold them in your arms gently. A healthy and well-socialized Ragdoll will be soft and calm. Also check its body. Its fur should be soft and shiny.
