Ragdoll cats, with their striking blue eyes and sweet, docile personalities, have become incredibly popular pets. Often called “puppy cats” because of their affectionate natures, it’s no wonder so many families are eager to welcome one into their homes.
If you’re in Florida and dreaming of finding a Ragdoll kitten, you’re not alone! Many Florida families are searching for reputable Ragdoll breeders to find their perfect furry companion. Keep in mind that health, socialization, and ethical breeding practices are important factors to consider when searching for a Ragdoll cat in Florida.
What are Ragdoll cats like?
Ragdolls are large cats with semi-long fur and bright blue eyes. They come in a range of colors and patterns. But what really makes them special is their personality.
Ragdolls are docile, gentle, and super affectionate. They’re usually very patient and good with children and other animals.
Many people call them “puppy cats” because they love to play and interact with their families.
Finding Reputable Ragdoll Breeders in Florida
When you’re ready to welcome a Ragdoll cat into your family, it’s important to find a good breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, and ethical practices.
Local Breeders vs. Out-of-State Options
Choosing a local breeder can be convenient, especially if you’d like to meet the kittens and their parents in person. However, don’t limit yourself to breeders in Florida. Many reputable breeders outside of the state will deliver or offer pickup options.
For example, Belle Ami Ragdolls delivers to Florida, and you may be able to arrange flight delivery or in-person pickup from other breeders as well.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Breeder
- Health testing and guarantees are essential. Make sure the breeder performs DNA testing for common genetic diseases like HCM, PRA, PkDef, FeLV, and FIV. They should also offer health guarantees for their kittens.
- Socialization and a positive home environment matter. Kittens raised in a home environment with plenty of handling and interaction are more likely to be well-adjusted and friendly.
- Ethical breeding practices are a must. Look for breeders who are registered with TICA and/or CFA. Experience, ethical treatment of the cats, and a clean, enriching environment are all important signs of a responsible breeder.
Avoiding kitten scams and ensuring a healthy kitten
Unfortunately, online kitten sales are rampant with scammers, so you’ll need to be extra vigilant during your search. It’s also vital to ensure your kitten is healthy and comes from a responsible breeder.
Red flags for kitten scams
Be wary of online kitten sales that involve:
- prices that seem too good to be true
- payment by wire transfer only
- lack of phone contact
- absence of references
Ensuring kitten health and well-being
Here are some things to look for to ensure you’re getting a healthy kitten:
- Florida State Health Certificate from a veterinarian
- age-appropriate kitten vaccines
- negative feline leukemia/feline AIDS test
- negative fecal test and deworming
- microchip implantation
Also, it’s a good idea to find a breeder who genetically tests Ragdolls to ensure they’re free of the mutations that cause hereditary diseases such as HCM (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) and PKD (polycystic kidney disease).
Spotlight on Florida Ragdoll breeders
If you’re looking for a Ragdoll kitten in Florida, here are a couple of breeders to start with:
SunnyShores Cattery
Located in Daytona Beach, SunnyShores Cattery is run by a registered vet tech who is active in several cat associations. SunnyShores is committed to health, socialization, and genetic testing. Kittens receive extensive socialization and enrichment from a young age, and each one comes with a five-year genetic/health guarantee.
ClassicDolls
ClassicDolls Cattery, located near Sarasota, focuses on breeding traditional Ragdoll cats.
In Conclusion
When searching for a Ragdoll kitten in Florida, it’s vital to choose a breeder who prioritizes the kittens’ health and socialization and follows ethical breeding practices. Whether you choose a local breeder or one from out of state, be cautious and aware of potential kitten scams.
Finding the right Ragdoll cat can bring immense joy to your life. These gentle giants make wonderful companions for families and individuals alike, offering endless love and affection.