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Purchasing a kitten can be an exciting time, but it’s important to be aware of potential scams. Unfortunately, the rise in online pet sales has led to an increase in fraudulent sellers. Since 2020 I have seen a significant rise in scams and backyard breeders. Here’s how to protect yourself from scammers when searching for a new feline friend.


1. Research the Breeder

Before making any decisions, thoroughly research the breeder.

Look for:

- A Professional Website: Legitimate breeders often have detailed, professional websites with information about their breeding practices, kitten care, and contact details.


- Reviews and Testimonials: Check for positive feedback from previous buyers. Genuine breeders will have a trail of satisfied customers.


- Social Media Presence: Authentic breeders often share updates and interact with buyers on social media platforms.


2. Beware of Red Flags

Certain warning signs can indicate a scam:


- Too-Good-To-Be-True Prices: If the price of the kitten is significantly lower than the market rate, it’s likely a scam. It’s very expensive to raise a litter of kittens without cutting corners.


- Stock Photos: Scammers often use generic or stolen photos. Reverse image search the photos to see if they appear on multiple websites.


- Poor Communication: Scammers may avoid phone calls, video calls, or in-person visits. Genuine breeders will be open to communicating through various channels. Their language seems off usually they are in another country.


3. Spotting Backyard Breeders


Low prices can sometimes indicate a backyard breeder. Here’s what to look out for:


- Very Low Prices: Extremely low prices can be a sign of a backyard breeder trying to make a quick profit without proper care for the kittens.


- Sick Kitten: Backyard breeders may not provide adequate veterinary care, leading to health issues in the kittens.


- inbreeding: To save costs, some backyard breeders inbreed their cats, leading to genetic health problems.


-Allowing Kittens to Leave by 8 Weeks Old: Reputable breeders keep kittens until they are at least 12 weeks old to ensure proper development and socialization. Allowing kittens to leave at 8 weeks is a red flag. From 8 weeks on the cost of care of the kitten rises significantly which is why they let them leave. You will not get a well adjusted kitten and will have many issues.


4. Ask Detailed Questions


Engage the breeder with specific questions about the kitten:

Health and Vaccination Records: Ask for documentation of vaccinations, health checks, and any medical history.


Parent Information: Inquire about the kitten’s parents, including their health and temperament.


Living Conditions: Ask about the environment the kittens are raised in.


5. Verify Documentation

Request and verify all necessary paperwork:


Pedigree Papers: Ensure the kitten is registered with a reputable cat registry.


Contract and Guarantees: A legitimate breeder will provide a contract outlining the terms of sale, health guarantees, and return policies.


6. Use Safe Communication and Payment Methods

Even though some breeders, like us, operate closed catteries, you should still ask for video calls or FaceTime sessions to interact with the breeder and see the kittens in real-time if you feel unsure if the breeder is legit.


Deposits and Payments: Breeders usually ask for a deposit and the final payment upon delivery. Be wary of those asking for full payment upfront.


Payment Methods: Never send prepaid cards.


Delivery Offers: Avoid offers that promise doorstep delivery for a suspiciously low cost. Legitimate shipping costs are often higher. Never are they included in the cost of the kitten. Avoid companies called "international company". That would only be used if importing a kitten.


7. Avoid Risky Social Media Groups


Be cautious with social media groups:

Scammer Groups: Avoid groups on social media with names like “Ragdoll Kittens for Sale” and “Rehoming.” These are often hotspots for known scammers.


8. Protecting Breeders

Scammers target breeders too. This is why breeders must also protect themselves. We ask for payments via friends and family methods because people sometimes try to get their money back after receiving the kitten they want, attempting to get a free kitten.


9. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your gut and be prepared to walk away if anything raises your suspicion. Don’t fall for tactics to make you feel guilty of the kittens well being. No kitten is kept in a warehouse nor stuck in a cage in transport if you don’t pay more money.


Conclusion

Finding the perfect kitten requires diligence and caution. By following these steps, you can protect yourself from scammers and ensure that your new furry friend comes from a reputable source. Happy kitten hunting!

Feel free to share your experiences or additional tips in the comments below. Let’s work together to keep our community safe from scammers!

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Welcome to our Ragdoll blog! We're so excited to share our love for these gentle giants with you. Ragdoll cats are known for their affectionate nature and striking blue eyes, making them a popular choice for families and cat lovers alike.

History and Characteristics of Ragdoll Cats

Ragdolls started in the 1960s in California, thanks to a breeder named Ann Baker. They're a relatively new breed but have quickly become favorites because of their calm demeanor and stunning looks. Ragdolls are large, muscular cats with semi-long fur and those vivid blue eyes we all adore. Adult males typically weigh between 15-20 pounds, while females weigh between 10-15 pounds. They come in various patterns, including colorpoint, mitted, bicolor, lynx, and tortie, and a range of beautiful colors such as seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, and cream.

Colorpoint

Colorpoint cats have a darker coloration on their ears, face, paws, and tail, contrasting with their lighter body color.

Mitted

Mitted Ragdolls have white mittens on their paws and a white chin, which can extend to their belly.

Bicolor

Bicolor Ragdolls have an inverted V-shaped marking on their face and white on their legs, chest, and belly.

Lynx

Lynx Ragdolls have a tabby-like pattern in their points, giving them a striped appearance.

Tortie

Tortie Ragdolls have a mix of two colors, creating a unique, patchy appearance that is always eye-catching.

Why Choose a Ragdoll?

Affectionate Nature

Ragdolls are famous for their gentle and loving temperament. They love being around people and often follow their owners from room to room. Their friendly nature makes them perfect for families with children and other pets.

Family-Friendly

Ragdolls are incredibly patient and tolerant, making them excellent companions for kids. They're known to be laid-back and rarely show aggression, even in stressful situations. This makes them a safe and reliable choice for any home.

Low Allergen

While no cat is completely hypoallergenic, Ragdolls produce fewer allergens than many other breeds. Their low-shedding coats and minimal dander production make them a better option for people with mild allergies.

Raising a Ragdoll Kitten

Early Care

Caring for a Ragdoll kitten involves providing a safe and loving environment. Make sure they have a cozy bed, toys, and lots of interaction. Socializing them early with different sounds, people, and environments will help them grow into well-adjusted adults.

Training and Socialization

Ragdolls are smart and can be trained to do basic commands and tricks. Positive reinforcement, like treats and praise, works well with this breed. Socializing them with other pets and people will enhance their friendly nature.

Health and Grooming

Preventative Care

Regular vet check-ups are essential to keep your Ragdoll healthy. Like all cats, they should be vaccinated, dewormed, and checked for common health issues like heart disease and kidney problems.

Grooming Tips

Ragdolls have semi-long fur that needs regular grooming to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Brushing them a few times a week will keep their coat shiny and tangle-free. Regular dental care and nail trimming are also important.

Finding the Right Breeder

Importance of Choosing a Reputable Breeder

When looking for a Ragdoll kitten, it’s crucial to choose a reputable breeder. A good breeder prioritizes the health and well-being of their cats, providing a clean and nurturing environment.

What to Look For

Ask for health clearances for the kitten's parents and ensure the kittens are well-socialized and healthy. A responsible breeder will be happy to answer your questions and provide ongoing support


Ragdolls make wonderful pets because of their affectionate, gentle nature and stunning appearance. Whether you're looking for a companion for your family or a new addition to your home, a Ragdoll kitten could be the perfect choice. We hope this blog has given you valuable insights into raising and caring for these beautiful cats. If you have any questions or are interested in adopting a Ragdoll, please feel free to contact us.

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Contact us

www.casablancaragdolls.com | Located near Lampasas, TX | TICA Certified Breeder
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