If you’re considering adding a ragdoll cat to your family, one of the biggest deciding factors will be cost (and whether it fits into your budget).
Ragdolls are known for their large size, gentle temperaments and beautiful blue eyes; they make the perfect companion for any home, whether it’s a small apartment in the city or a large five-bedroom residence in the country.
But how much do ragdolls cost to buy?
The cost of buying a ragdoll cat will vary based on the age, gender and quality of the breeding lines. Generally, ragdolls cost between $400-$2,000 USD for kittens or fully-grown cats from reputable breeders in the United States. Prices may also vary depending on whether you are purchasing a show-quality cat or pet-only companion.
For example, a fully-grown purebred award-winning brood cat may fetch a price at the higher end of the scale compared to a kitten, based on the mother’s ability to produce high-quality litters.
Because ragdolls are an increasingly popular breed with high demand from would-be owners, this also drives the price up compared to some other breeds.
Read on to learn more about the price of ragdoll cats and what factors influence it.
Cost overview of buying and owning ragdoll cats
Ragdoll cats are known for their striking blue eyes, soft fur coats and affectionate personalities. They make great indoor pets and are relatively low-maintenance compared to other cat breeds. However, before committing to buying a ragdoll cat, it’s important to understand the costs associated with owning one.
The most significant cost when buying a ragdoll cat will be its initial purchase price, which can range from $400 to $2000 USD depending on factors such as where you buy it from and whether or not your ragdoll has champion bloodlines (which will likely drive up the price).
If the mother of the litter you’re buying from was previously used as a show cat in competitions and is purebred, you can expect to pay significantly more than your average ragdoll.
It’s also worth considering that if you buy your ragdoll from a breeder, then they’ll likely require an additional fee for vaccinations and treatments prior to bringing them home with you (unless they’ve already factored this into the upfront price).
Once the initial sale has been made there will be ongoing costs associated with looking after your new ragdoll kitten or adult.
This should include food, carrier bags/boxes, litter boxes/scoops/litter itself, toys for entertainment, comfortable bedding materials or cushions/blankets, veterinarian visits and checkups as well as regular flea/worming medication dosages throughout their lifetime.
All of these items must be factored into your budget when planning on getting yourself a ragdoll cat.
What is the average price of a ragdoll kitten?
The average price of a ragdoll kitten from an established and reputable breeder ranges between $800 and $1200 USD. Prices may go up if you’re looking for specific colors, patterns or generations (such as traditional lines). Purchasing from a breeder is typically more expensive than adopting from a shelter or rescue organisation due to these kittens usually being purebred rather than crossbred.
When choosing your new ragdoll kitten, it’s important to find out whether they’ve been tested for feline diseases such as FIV/FELV and if they’ve had their initial vaccinations.
Usually breeders will have proper documentation signed by a vet to verify their health and vaccination status.
Purchasing a ragdoll kitten is a significant investment when you consider the ongoing costs as they develop into adulthood (such as vaccination boosters, regular check-ups, buying toys and food), so it’s important you do your research to ensure your breeder is reputable and legitimate.
Factors impacting the cost of a ragdoll cat
One of the key factors impacting the cost of a ragdoll cat is their pedigree. Purebred cats will be more expensive than those with mixed heritage, and certain traits such as colouring and size can also add to the price tag. For example, blue-eyed ragdolls will usually come at a higher cost than other varieties.
The age of the cat is also a factor in determining its cost; kittens are generally more pricey because they require specialised care and have a full life ahead of them, while adult cats may be less expensive but need medical attention for any pre-existing conditions they may have had before adoption.
Also, as explained earlier, if you’re purchasing an adult show-quality mother for breeding (if you have the licence to do so) then this will also likely bump the price up.
Additionally, some breeders may offer discounts or special pricing depending on how many cats you’re looking to adopt at once.
Finally, location plays an important role in how much you should expect to pay for a ragdoll cat; prices in urban areas tend to be higher due to demand when compared with regional or rural areas.
These same cities can also have additional costs associated with registration or shipping fees if necessary when bringing your new ragdoll home from another state or country.
How to save money when buying a ragdoll cat
When it comes to buying an affordable ragdoll cat, there are a few tips to keep in mind.
I’ve listed three things to consider if you’re looking to save a few dollars on the purchase of your new cuddly companion.
1. Do your research and understand the breed
Ragdolls require lots of love and attention, so be sure you’re prepared for that commitment before making a purchase.
Understanding the cost of not only buying, but maintaining a ragdoll cat over the course of their life (which can be anywhere from 12-20 years in some cases) can help you budget properly.
You don’t want to buy a ragdoll cat only to find out later that you’re in way over your head and financially stretched.
2. Adopt rather than buy from a breeder or pet store
There are many cats, even ragdolls, available through animal rescues or shelters who need forever homes.
Adoption fees are typically lower than purchasing from a breeder which can help with affordability.
It’s important to remember that adoption isn’t just about saving money – it helps provide discarded ragdoll cats with essential care and keeps them out of overcrowded shelters.
3. Buy from a reputable breeder
If you’re set on buying and not adopting, make sure you look for a breeder who offers health guarantees on their ragdoll kittens as well as provides proof of vaccinations/registrations when applicable.
Ask questions about the parents’ history (health issues etc.) and insist on seeing each kitten in person prior to sale as this will help confirm good health at time of purchase while ensuring the kitten meets your expectations.
Final message
In summary, the cost of buying a ragdoll cat will vary anywhere from $400-$2000 USD depending on whether you’re buying a kitten, a fully-grown adult or a female to be used as a breeding mother.
Often, location will be another factor; city breeders are likely to charge more than those in rural areas.
If you’re getting your ragdoll flown in from another state or even country, this will also push the price up.
It’s important to do your research before committing to buy a ragdoll to make sure you can afford it – not just the up-front purchase fee, but also the ongoing costs associated with owning a cat.