Getting a Kitten for the first time

[Eleanorsummer]

So, after lots of research I have decided to get a ragdoll Kitten. I have had dogs before but not cats, so just wanted to ask a few questions.
I have read that it is better to get two kittens. I am open to the idea, but worried if two turn out to be twice as hard work. Can people give me some advice and their experiences on one vs two kittens .
Does anyone have ragdoll cats and anything I should bear in mind specific to that breed?
Did you find a difference between Male and Female ragdolls?
I am at home most of the day, so will be able to give them lots of attention, as I know ragdolls don't like being left on their own for long periods of time.
Thank you

[Grumpyoldpersonwithcats]

Two kittens are much easier than one because they keep each other amused.
Why a ragdoll by the way? Rescues have plenty of moggy kittens.
If you are set on a ragdoll - worth an internet search on health problems in the breed (heart and kidneys) and make sure the breeder has taken appropriate steps to avoid these.

[eurochick]

Following as we have a pair of kittens coming soon. We tried for months to adopt rather than shop but kept getting turned down by rescues - mainly because we have a child (one calm five year old) and in the case of one rescue because of the road we live on, even though we said we would be happy with an indoor cat. I want my child to grow up with household pets, so with some regret we have gone for a carefully chosen breeder instead.

Anyway, I've lived with adult cats, puppies and adult dogs before but never kittens.

We chose to get a sibling pair as we both work, so they will have company when we are out.

[Eleanorsummer]

Thank you for your replies. I have a disability, spend a lot of time at home, so want an indoor cat that likes affection. My friend had a ragdoll and it was very loving and gentle.
I have contacted 3 breeders who are all registered and do testing.
Eurochick I am leaning towards getting 2 so that they'll have company when I do go out. Keep me updated on how they settle in

[Wolfiefan]

Kittens aren’t loving and gentle!
Honestly you’d be better with an adult. That way you know what the temperament will be. You also miss the bitey stage.

[Eleanorsummer]

I don't know where I would get an adult ragdoll from

[madcatladyforever]

I've had 6 cats to date and quite honestly only one of them enjoyed the company of other cats. Cats are by nature singular and prefer all the attention for themselves.
You'd be an ideal cat owner, at home a lot of the time, ability to give the cat your attention and ragdolls are adorable.
My friend had two and they were so lovely.
I think you'd be ok with a kitten, they soon grow out of the kitten stage, far too soon in my opinion and following on from that they sleep for 15 hours a day

[AlpacaP1cnic]

Just get one. Adult cats are solitary by nature and although they'll tolerate their companion in adulthood, their preference is usually to be the only cat. So kittens will play and sleep curled up together but given the option, they'd be alone once fully grown. Not all of course, but most

One cat also means no rivalry behavioural issues such as spraying and also one lot of costs and one litter tray

Ragdolls are adorable

[Wolfiefan]

Why does it have to be a rag doll?
Contact a breed specific rescue?
Just because you met a couple of cats of this breed and liked them doesn’t mean they are the best/only breed for you.

[Eleanorsummer]

Okay, maybe one is best. I want a ragdoll. Why is it bad to want a specific breed? I have done lots of research, not just going from ones I've met.
Can't someone want a specific breed anymore? Some people are Labrador lovers etc. Don't see why it is a bad thing to know what kind of Kitten I want

[Eleanorsummer]

Also, ragdolls are rarely in rescues. I have already looked. Thank you for the helpful responses. I didn't start this thread to get questioned on why I only want a ragdoll.

[Wolfiefan]

It’s not. But a kitten may not be the best choice for you. We had cats for years but got an almighty shock when we got our kittens. They were a nightmare. Not the calm pet you say you want.

[Walkamileinmyshoesbeforeujudge]

Our 2 adults dcats are brothers and at 7 are still as close as dkittens!
2 = less soft furnishings damaged ime...? And less mangled human hands /arms /legs!

[TeddiesAreEverywhere]

I’m also getting a ragdoll kitten in 2 weeks. I’m only getting one, I’m home almost all day and even when I do pop out, my teenage son is home. We’re getting a male, no specific reason why we’re getting a male though. Really excited to get him! There’s nothing wrong with wanting a specific breed, there’s always judgement though if you don’t rescue. I’ve had rescue cats in the past, I currently have rescue guinea pigs but I would just like this breed this time.

[TastingTheRainbow]

I have Ragdoll’s, they are amazing and I honestly wouldn’t own anything else. If getting a kitten definitely get 2 unless you are around all the time as they are very sociable and get lonely. Ragdoll’s are generally more dog like people say, one of mine plays fetch!

Main thing to be prepared for is hair EVERYWHERE, they moult a lot and you will be covered in fluff forever. Also make sure the breeder you get your kittens from has tested the parents for HCM. It’s a generic heart condition that Ragdoll’s are prone to.

[TastingTheRainbow]

Those saying that cats are solitary and don’t choose to spend time together as adults have never met Ragdoll’s! My girls are never apart, sleep together every night and cry for each other if one goes the vet etc.