kcoast : Meeeeee! I have a completely gorgeous lady named Chloe. She just turned 14 on April 1st! I’ve had pets my entire life, 47 years, and hands down, bar none, she is THE BEST PET I’ve ever had! She is a Blue Mitted.
I met her breeder through the Cat Fanciers Assoc like 16 years ago at a cat show. Both of Chloe’s parents were show cats and absolutley to die for gorgeous pampered animals. I kept in touch with the owner and eventually when the timing was right, I adopted Chloe from her Queens last litter. Her parents were retired from shows and breeding after Chloe’s litter was born. Off to live a pampered, sheltered life!
I fell in love with the breed very early on, in the 80s when it was just surfacing, and, the controversy was on if was even going to be a recognized TICA or Fanciers breed for show. I was fascinated by the mysterious history of the breed and ultimatley, that the animal itself is so darn gorgeous and congenial. I mean, a cat that plays dead?! Chloe did this when she was a baby. It is truly a strange phenomenon! She outgrew doing it…but has remained extremely passive.
I have had pets my entire life. Mostly farm animals and rescues. Chloe is my one indulgent acquisition and I’ve never regretted her, or her origins. I know, as fact, her parents and littermates were treated better than most any animals I’ve ever seen.
My best suggestion is to start researching breeders in your area and surrounding states. Do NOT acquire a kitten from somone willing to ship their animals. Gross. (IMHO) Find a cattery that you can visit, then visit again, and a breeder who is tolerant and welcoming of your questions and concerns. Understand the lineage of the parents and their family roots, and how did the cattery come to be? Do your research and understand the breed itself. Because nowadays there are LOTS of cats called “ragdolls” and believe me, they really aren’t! Markings & Colors, is where you’ll find the greatest divergence from the breed standards.
Personally, if given the option of a true, unadulterated Ragdoll breed over any other, I’d do it again, no doubts. My Chloe has been a DREAM and is truly a child to me. So affectionate, so friendly, loving, social, truly a Poster Child for the breed. Gosh I just LOVE her!!!
Very best of luck in finding the perfect Raggie for your family!