Ragdoll cat - breeder advice

[Chihuahuacat]

Hi,

I’m currently looking to get a ragdoll cat and given I’ve never had a pedigree before, I’m after some advice as it seems a bit of a minefield in finding a reputable breeder.

I met with a breeder last week who on paper looks excellent, she’s bred grand champions and has been breeding for 20 years plus. The kitten seemed lovely and healthy, albeit a little shy.

She asked us not to make a decision there and then, and to go away and think about it. So far all good!

I then messaged her the next day to ask if I could see photos with mum and dad, copies of health certificates and whether the kitten is usually shy and she seemed super offended by these questions and that perhaps I wasn’t the right owner.

Does this seem like a red flag as I thought good breeders should accept these types of questions? She has since sent the info through and it seems as though Dad has been flown in from Germany - is this normal?

I really want to get it right and she does know her stuff having won lots of shows. However, are we better going for a smaller breeder for a family pet?

I've never bought a pedigree cat, but certainly good dog breeders would welcome lots of questions from prospective owners. Seems a bit weird that she's offended to be honest.

Yes that’s what I was thinking! I almost feel now that I’m walking on eggshells around her and even though she is a good breeder (I think) it’s kind of soured the interaction?

On the other hand though, she does seem to have lots of experience and maybe I’m over thinking and I shouldn’t let it get to me? I’m not buying her , I’m buying the kitten!

I think it's natural to feel a tad offended that someone thinks you don't breed kittens well enough, especially if you have been doing it for 20 years and have bred champions. It's just human nature I think.

Ragdolls are a lovely choice however 😁 If you feel it's a bit soured, then find another breeder I guess?

PS yes, normal to fly dad in to breed. I guess she is after a particular kitten for showing.

@Sunbelievable that’s really helpful thank you. I do understand why she might feel a bit put out, but I’m very very new to this world and although she is famous in those circles, to me I was asking the same questions of everyone.

The point about flying the dad in being normal is very reassuring xx

My friend shows poodles, and one of her dogs went on loan to Spain for a year for use as a stud dog. Another friend (GSDs) took one of her bitches to Germany to be covered.

I would thank her very much for the info, explain about you being new to pedigrees and say how much she's reassured you. Then - assuming you do really like the kitten - carry on with buying it.