Commonly Asked Questions

Please read below for information on declawing and early spay and neutering at Crystal Catzz Ragdolls.

Q- Why purchase a purebred Ragdoll?

A- With any purebred cat comes the traits that have made that cat desirable. Ragdolls are large cats with large blue eyes, medium length non-matting fur and are gentle and fun loving. They are very friendly, playful cats that want to be with the family, other pets and guests. While slow to mature a Ragdoll from Minnesota will have the same personality and body traits as one from Europe.

Q- How do I know I’m buying a purebred Ragdoll?

A- Ask if your kitten can be registered. With show/breed quality kittens you should receive the registration papers when you pick the kitten up. You can expect to pay more for show/breed quality kittens as they will normally have the best color markings, size or body shape of the litter. Pet quality kittens can also be registered but the breeder will not release the papers until the kitten has been spayed or neutered. You may also ask to see the stud and queen to help determine what your kittens background is.

Q- How old should the kitten be to come home?

A- Usually breeders will make the kittens available when they are 10 to 12 weeks old or older. This gives the kitten time to learn social skills, receive the necessary inoculations and to develop physically for a change of environment, showing or being transported by air.

Q- Can my Ragdoll go outdoors?

A- Of course...but for your pets well being we recommend it be kept inside. Allowing your pet to " roam the neighborhood" is an invitation for your pet to contract parasites from other animals, run the risk of bodily harm, upset your neighbors as well as endanger other animals and birds. A cats natural instinct is to hunt and even though your cat is well fed if given the chance it will kill or cripple song birds, rabbits, chipmunks and other animals for sport.

Q- At what age should I have my cat spayed or neutered?

A- Many Vets spay or neuter at 5 to 7 months although there is a growing trend to earlier spay and neutering of kittens, generally before they go out to their new homes.   It has been found that kittens heal faster and suffer no ill effects.  We have adopted this practice for our pet kittens.

Q- How can I choose a quality breeder?

A- Do your homework at the library, bookstore, cat magazines or Internet. Ask any friends who may have Ragdolls what breeder they used. Talk with the breeder. Do they show cats? Do they have one or more breed of cats? Can you visit their cattery? Is it clean and well kept? How long have they been in business? Don’t be surprised if they interview you as well. Reputable breeders want to see their kittens placed in the best homes possible!

Q- Should I declaw my Ragdoll kitten?

A- In a word "NO!"  The Ragdoll personality is such that the cats are non-aggressive and easily trained to scratching posts.  We have a no declaw policy in our contract and will not place our kittens where the owner feels they need to be declawed.

Links to other Ragdoll sites:

Ragdoll connection Network
HiBorneRags Ragdoll Cattery
Cat Fanciers: Ragdoll FAQ