Ragdoll Kittens: Pictures, Adoption Tips, and More!

Although this breed hasn’t been around as long as others, ragdolls have managed to capture the hearts of millions of people across the globe! These sweet little cats make a perfect addition to any family because of their docile nature and relaxed temperament. If you’ve decided to add a ragdoll kitten to your family, here are some tips that will make the adoption process much smoother.

An Introduction to the Ragdoll Breed

Ragdolls are one of the friendliest, most “dog-like” cat breeds out there. These cats are relaxed, gentle, sociable, and affectionate. Because of this, they do well in households with young children and other pets. Many people seek them out for these exact qualities and it’s easy to see why they have gained widespread popularity in recent years.

For all their good qualities, ragdolls can be a little labor-intensive. These cats have long, fluffy coats that require routine brushing. According to Ragdoll Care, “The frequency with which your Ragdoll cat needs grooming depends on how long and thick his coat is and how much grooming he does himself. Older cats and cats with mobility problems often struggle to groom themselves effectively and may need grooming every day. Younger cats and cats that do not shed as much hair will benefit from grooming two or three times a week.”

History of the Ragdoll

Back in 1963, a woman from California named Ann Baker bred the first ragdoll kittens. Ann Baker was a long-time Persian cat breeder. The ragdoll breed was started by a simple street cat named Josephine. Josephine was a long-haired white cat of no particular breed, although some say she resembled an angora. Ann took her in as a neighborhood stray and began breeding her with various other street cats until she noticed a pattern in some of the kittens’ behavior and appearance.

Some were exceptionally beautiful and had unique markings that we know today as seal point, mitted, and bicolor. In addition to their striking appearance, they were gentle and sweet. These kittens enjoyed being handled and cuddled. Additionally, they spent most of their time socializing with their families. These bundles of love get their name from a unique characteristic. If you pick them up, they’re known to flop over much like a ragdoll!

The Importance of Finding a Reputable Ragdoll Breeder

The average cost of a ragdoll kitten will vary depending on factors like location and the pedigree of the cat. On average, you can expect to pay between $500 and $2,500 for a purebred ragdoll. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable route, adoption is always an option. This will cost between $50 and $150. Although this breed is a bit less common to see up for adoption, it’s not unheard of by any means. However, these kittens are popular, so keep an eye on your local shelters closely as they’re sure to go fast.

Although purchasing a ragdoll kitten directly from a breeder will be more expensive, it is always worth the additional cost. Ragdolls that come from backyard breeding operations are more likely to suffer from genetic diseases due to lack of testing. These conditions are painful for the animals that they affect and expensive to treat.

How to Properly Vet Breeders

Ensuring you get your ragdoll kitten from a reputable breeder is the most important step in the process of purchasing. Word-of-mouth recommendations are one of the best ways to gauge a breeder’s reputation. Reach out to people you know who have ragdoll cats and ask where they purchased them. Be sure to ask questions about their medical history and discuss whether the breeder offers a health guarantee. Health guarantees are a promise from the breeder to the buyer stating that their cats have been genetically tested. In the event the cat becomes diagnosed with a disease covered by the agreement, the buyer will be eligible for a replacement or refund.

If you don’t know anyone in your personal life you can reach out to, try joining groups on social media dedicated to ragdolls. Owners and enthusiasts discuss and share their love for the breed on these online forums. Often, people in these groups are more than happy to answer questions and provide recommendations. Finally, try to steer clear of new breeders or those without reviews. A long history of customer satisfaction is key when choosing a breeder. Because it’s so crucial to be sure that your breeder is ethical, it’s important to take your time doing your research. Don’t rush this process!

How to Prepare

If this is the first cat in your household, there are certain easily forgotten expenses that you should be prepared for. It is important to purchase food and water bowls, a collar, toys, a bed, and a travel crate before bringing your ragdoll kitten home.

In addition, consider setting up an appointment to microchip your cat. Although it isn’t as common with cats as it is with dogs, microchipping can save a lost cat. In the event that someone finds them, scanning their microchip will give them your contact information. In this way, you’ll be able to reunite with greater ease. It’s relatively affordable at about $40, and it provides invaluable peace of mind!

Final Thoughts

The ragdoll cat is a wonderful breed that is able to mesh well in almost any household. It’s no surprise at all why so many people seek these bundles of love and joy. Although it might seem overwhelming at first, adopting one is easier than you think. If you follow these tips, you’ll be sure to secure the healthy, happy ragdoll of your dreams in no time.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © PHOTOCREO Michal Bednarek/Shutterstock.com