How much ?

Understanding the True Value of a Ragdoll Kitten

To those who inquire about the price of a Ragdoll kitten and express surprise at the cost, or who seek a "cheaper" option elsewhere, it's important to convey a deeper understanding of what you're investing in. A purebred kitten is far more than "just a pet."

Behind Every Kitten: The Role of a Breeder

A BREEDER—distinguished here in capital letters to set them apart from mere pet mills or factories—is dedicated to preserving and enhancing the breed. This commitment involves not only the physical well-being of each kitten but also the integrity and health of the lineage. A reputable breeder meticulously documents the lineage of their cats, ensuring that potential genetic issues are identified and managed. This careful documentation, often dismissed by those uninterested in "papers," is crucial for the health and future of the breed.

The Responsibilities of a Breeder

A responsible breeder's work goes far beyond just pairing cats to produce kittens. They undertake a rigorous process that includes:

Health Testing:

Comprehensive genetic tests and screenings ensure the breeding pair is healthy and free from inheritable conditions.

Emergency Care:

Being prepared for the unpredictable, including emergency surgeries and round-the-clock care during and after births.

Routine Care:

Includes vaccinations, deworming, microchipping, and regular health check-ups for all kittens.

These breeders also make significant investments in:

Specialized Housing:

Secure and comfortable accommodations for male cats, ensuring their well-being and reducing stress

.

Nutrition and Care: High-quality food, supplements, and litter, often tailored to the specific needs of the breed to ensure optimal health.

Environment Enrichment: Providing cat trees, toys, and other forms of enrichment to promote physical and mental stimulation.

- **Maintenance and Upkeep**: Regular replacement of worn-out toys and the use of advanced litter management systems like Litter Robots for hygiene and convenience.

In addition, importing new genetic lines to maintain and improve breed standards often requires substantial financial investment. Such imports can cost upwards of $6,000 per kitten, ensuring the diversity and health of the breed.

The Emotional Investment

A breeder's work is not just a business; it's a passion and a calling. Each kitten sold is not just a transaction but an extension of their family. They carefully select new owners, ensuring that their kittens go to homes where they will be loved and cared for. This process is meticulous because a breeder's concern extends beyond the sale—they remain invested in the well-being of their kittens for life.

Breeders often experience joy and heartbreak. They share in the milestones and challenges of the families that adopt their kittens, sometimes welcoming kittens back into their care without hesitation if circumstances change.

Choosing a Family: The Breeder's Perspective

A reputable breeder does not sell their kittens to just anyone. They are selective because they care deeply about the future of each kitten and the continuation of their carefully nurtured bloodline. This selective process is not about elitism but about ensuring that each kitten finds a home where it will be loved, well-cared for, and appreciated.

Breeding is a lifestyle choice, a commitment to nurturing life in a way that honors the cat's natural grace, health, and temperament. It's not a pursuit for financial gain but a labor of love and dedication.

A Kitten is Never "Just a Pet"

Each Ragdoll kitten represents the culmination of careful planning, extensive care, and emotional investment. They become a legacy, a best friend to a child, a companion to the elderly, and a beloved member of the family. The value of a Ragdoll kitten extends far beyond its initial cost, embodying a breeder's commitment to the breed and the joy it brings into the lives of those who welcome these beautiful cats into their homes.

This was taken from another breeder, I’ve changed some of it but all very true.

"BREEDER'S PRICE LIST"

of any type of animal (dog, cat.....) and why every breeder hates when they get an inquiry for their baby that only says "price?" Or “how much?”

1. Procurement of uncastrated healthy breeding animals (the prices are not very low, they are usually twice the prices for pets)

2. Going to get the same breeding animals or paying for shipping to get them to the breeder

3. Payment of the necessary documents for the registration of the cattery and eventual nostrification of the pedigree.

4. Care, quality food, supplements, vitamins, toys, climbing frames, litter boxes for cats, litter for the boxes, possible veterinary expenses if the animal falls ill approximately one year before the first possible mating...and throughout its life.. ..

5. Genetic tests, ultrasound, X-ray, veterinary examinations before mating...

6. The cost of exhibiting animals at exhibitions

7. Possible construction of separate areas of the cattery, because the breeding males must mostly be separated from the females in order to avoid unwanted mating... also the breeding males very often mark the area, so they must be separated, so that the breeder and his family do not lose their minds cleaning and scrubbing marked parts of the house (breeders will understand)

8. When the first mating finally occurs, with a male owned by the same breeder (so all this was invested in him before) or with a male from another breeder (so you pay the mating price)

9. Even better food and a little more supplements and vitamins for pregnant moms

10. If you're lucky...mom will deliver and take care of the babies herself..if you're not, she might need vet help or a c-section, which again is a big expense

11.Also if you are lucky, there will be a larger number of completely healthy babies in the litter... and it can also happen that you lose the entire litter... or that you only have one or two babies in the litter.

12. Maybe those same babies will need to be supplemented with a bottle, so you will also need powdered milk...they may also need heating....

13. When babies start eating on their own, which is usually at 3-4 weeks of age, they will need quality food, and again supplements and vitamins. Don't forget that all this time mom needs all this too. 14. They will also need toys for socialization

15. When the babies grow up, they should be vaccinated, microchipped, examined by a veterinarian, paid for the pedigree and transfer and any other papers and vaccination against rabies if the baby is going to a new home somewhere across the border....

16. The cost of a possible website, payment for advertisements for the sale of kittens

17. Take into account everything mentioned above and the fuel used for the car for every trip to the vet, going to get food at the pet store (or paying for delivery) and going to get other necessities.

18. Heating/cooling separate quarters.

What has no price is care, the enormous love of every ethical, caring breeder for their animals, sleepless nights, patience, ruined walls and floors from intact cats, ruined furniture in the house from scratching or peeing, ruined vacuum cleaner when you accidentally pick up cat urine or poop with it....

19 Wear and tear on washer from hair. Clogged pipes from hair.

20 Compare, most reputable breeders practice ESN with kittens, no family should have to endure spraying, calling, and fighting intact cats. Intact cats can and will destroy your home. It’s definitely a labor of love with a lot of work involved 24/7.

Who wouldn't go crazy when, after all this, you only get the question "Price?" on your ad.

Why I have a Closed Cattery

Running a closed cattery is a decision I made with a lot of thought, care, and love for both my furry family and the kittens we bring into the world. While the term "closed cattery" might sound a bit strict or uninviting, the reality is quite the opposite. It’s about creating the safest, healthiest, and most comfortable environment for my mama cats, kittens, and my human family. Here are all the reasons why a closed cattery is the right choice for us.

1. My Home is Their Home

First and foremost, my cattery is not just a business—it's my home. This is where my family lives, where we eat, sleep, and create memories. It's where my cats roam freely, lounge in sunbeams, and bring joy into our everyday lives. Opening up our home to visitors may seem like a friendly gesture, but it also introduces risks that can affect both our pets and my family. By keeping our cattery closed, I’m able to maintain a peaceful, safe, and clean environment that benefits everyone living here, both human and feline.

2. Protecting My Mama Cats

One of the main reasons for keeping our cattery closed is to protect our mama cats. Pregnancy and motherhood are demanding enough without the added stress of strangers coming in and out. Cats are sensitive creatures, and new smells, sounds, and people can create anxiety, which isn’t ideal for expectant or new mothers. Stress can impact their health, their ability to carry to term, and their capacity to care for their newborns. By limiting outside visitors, I can ensure they remain calm and comfortable throughout their pregnancy and while caring for their kittens.

3. Safety of Our Kittens

Our kittens are born into a world where their immune systems are still developing. They’re unvaccinated during their first few weeks of life, which means they’re especially vulnerable to germs and illnesses that could be brought in from outside. Visitors can unknowingly carry viruses on their shoes or clothes from other cats or from the environment, which could cause serious illness or even death to our vulnerable kittens and cats. A simple cold that might be nothing to us can be deadly to a young kitten. By running a closed cattery, I’m taking every precaution to ensure that my kittens grow up strong, healthy, and happy, free from preventable illnesses.

4. Protecting My Family

In addition to the health and safety of my cats, the safety of my family is also a top priority. We live in different times now, and inviting strangers into our home comes with certain risks. While I’d love to welcome everyone into my home to meet our kittens, I have to consider the safety and privacy of my family. I want to protect my loved ones from any potential dangers, and the reality is that we must be cautious about who enters our personal space. Keeping our cattery closed allows me to protect my loved ones while still providing the best care and attention to our cats and kittens.

5. Preventing the Spread of Germs

It’s not just the kittens who are at risk. Bringing germs into the cattery can affect the entire cat family. Cats can be susceptible to various viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens that can be transmitted from person to cat or even from one cat to another. Visitors can unknowingly carry these germs on their shoes, clothes, or hands, even if they don’t directly handle the cats. I’m dedicated to maintaining a clean, healthy environment, and that includes minimizing the risk of any potential infections. A closed cattery allows me to control what comes in and out, significantly reducing the chances of anything harmful being introduced to my cats.

6. Ensuring a Stress-Free Environment

Cats, particularly Ragdolls, are known for their gentle and relaxed temperament, but they are still sensitive to changes in their environment. Frequent visitors, especially strangers, can disrupt the calm atmosphere that is essential for the well-being of my cats. Stress can lead to a variety of health issues, including weakened immune systems and behavioral problems. By maintaining a closed cattery, I can ensure that my cats live in a stress-free environment where they feel safe, secure, and loved.

7. Nothing to Hide, Everything to Protect

I understand that some people might think a closed cattery means I have something to hide, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. My decision to keep our cattery closed is not about secrecy but about safeguarding the well-being of my cats, kittens, and family. I’m more than happy to share pictures, videos, and updates of our kittens with you, and I’m always available to answer any questions. I believe in transparency, and I’m committed to maintaining open communication with those who are interested in welcoming one of our kittens into their lives.

8. Maintaining a High Standard of Care

Running a closed cattery allows me to focus on what truly matters: providing the best possible care for my cats and kittens. Without the distraction or disruption of outside visitors, I can dedicate more time and attention to the daily needs of my animals. This includes monitoring the health and development of the kittens, ensuring that the mama cats are well cared for, and keeping the living environment clean and sanitary. By maintaining these high standards, I can ensure that every kitten leaves our home healthy, well-socialized, and ready to thrive in their new homes.

9. Building Trust Through Communication

While our cattery is closed to visitors, that doesn’t mean we’re closed off from communication. I believe that building trust with potential kitten owners is essential, and I’m committed to providing all the information, updates, and support you need throughout the process. Whether it’s through photos, videos, or detailed conversations, I’m here to help you feel confident and excited about welcoming one of our kittens into your home. My goal is to ensure that you have a positive and reassuring experience, knowing that your new family member has been raised with love, care, and the utmost attention to their health and well-being.

10. Peace of Mind for Everyone

At the end of the day, running a closed cattery gives me peace of mind, knowing that I’m doing everything in my power to protect my cats, my family, and the future owners of our kittens. It allows me to provide a safe, healthy, and loving environment where my cats can thrive and where my kittens can grow into the wonderful companions they are meant to be. I appreciate your understanding and support as we continue to provide the best care for our beloved Ragdolls.

In conclusion, being a closed cattery is a choice made out of love and responsibility. It ensures that my cats and kittens are raised in the safest, healthiest environment possible, free from unnecessary stress and risks. I appreciate your understanding and support as we continue to provide the best care for our beloved Ragdolls.

How to Bond with your Ragdoll kitten

Tips for New Cat Owners

Ragdolls are renowned for their affectionate, loving nature, often described as one of the most endearing and "clingy" breeds among domestic cats. While their inherent lovability might suggest that bonding is a breeze, Ragdolls, like many animals, often form a special bond with one person in their household. This doesn’t mean they won’t be affectionate towards others, but a deeper connection tends to develop with one individual.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you become that special person for your Ragdoll kitten.

Understanding Ragdoll Personality

Ragdolls are not typically "one-person cats" in the same way some dog breeds are, such as the Doberman Pinscher. Instead, they share their affection generously, though one person often becomes their primary attachment. Building a strong bond with your Ragdoll begins early, ideally when they are still a kitten, just learning the house rules and litter box training.

Learn to Speak Your Ragdoll's Language

Ragdolls communicate in their unique way, using a combination of body language and vocalizations. They are not the most vocal breed, but they do have a repertoire of sounds and signals. Pay close attention to your kitten’s ear and tail movements, posture, and facial expressions. Understanding these signals is akin to learning a new language and is crucial for building a strong, trusting bond.

Playtime: The Key to Connection

Ragdolls are often compared to dogs for their playful and affectionate nature, earning them the nickname "puppy-cats." Play is a crucial aspect of bonding. Engage your Ragdoll with interactive toys that you can control, such as feather wands or laser pointers. This interaction not only provides physical exercise but also strengthens the emotional connection between you.

Incorporate treats into playtime as rewards for good behavior or successful play. This positive reinforcement helps build trust and makes the play more enjoyable for your kitten.

Grooming: A Time for Bonding

Grooming is not just about keeping your Ragdoll’s fur in good condition; it’s also a bonding activity. Unlike some cats, Ragdolls generally enjoy being groomed. Spend five to six minutes each day brushing your kitten. This routine helps manage shedding and prevents matting, especially since Ragdolls have medium to long fur.

Keep grooming sessions gentle and calm. Most Ragdolls will relax completely, often becoming limp as you groom them—a trait that gave the breed its name. This daily ritual fosters a sense of security and strengthens your bond.

Feeding: Establishing Trust

Feeding time is another opportunity to strengthen your bond. If you’re the primary person feeding your Ragdoll, they will associate you with nourishment and care. Consistency in feeding times helps establish a routine, further cementing their trust in you.

After meals, consider spending quiet time together. This can include gentle petting or simply sitting together, reinforcing the positive association with mealtime and your presence.

Create a Safe Space: The Importance of Hideouts

Ragdolls appreciate having a space they can call their own. Whether it’s a cozy cat bed, a special box, or a dedicated cat house, providing a safe hideout is crucial. Ragdolls are not big climbers, so ensure their hideout is accessible and comfortable at ground level. This space serves as a sanctuary where they can retreat and feel secure.

Incorporate toys and play into their safe space to encourage them to use it and feel even more comfortable. Even though Ragdolls love being near their humans, they also appreciate having a private area to relax in.

Getting Down to Their Level

Interacting with your Ragdoll on their level is especially important when they are kittens. Physically lowering yourself to their height can make you seem less intimidating and more approachable. This can be particularly helpful during playtime, feeding, or when offering treats.

Consistency: The Foundation of Trust

Consistency in your interactions, routines, and responses is vital in building a lasting bond with your Ragdoll. They are intelligent and perceptive cats, and any inconsistency, especially in feeding or play routines, can be unsettling for them. Strive to maintain a consistent daily schedule to foster a sense of security and trust.

Final Thoughts

Bonding with your Ragdoll kitten is a rewarding journey that involves patience, understanding, and consistent care. By being attentive to your Ragdoll’s needs and maintaining a consistent routine, you can develop a strong, lifelong bond. Whether you are in a single-person household or a bustling family environment, being the primary caregiver will significantly influence your bond with your Ragdoll. Remember, the key is to be attentive, consistent, and loving, ensuring your Ragdoll feels secure and cherished in your home.