Adopt a Retired Ragdoll Cat
Ragdoll Adoption
The information contained in this page covers the basics if you are considering adopting a retired Ragdoll cat.
What is a Retired Ragdoll Cat?
A retired Ragdoll is a cat that has been part of a Ragdoll breeding program and is now spayed/neutered (or retired) and ready to find a loving home. This process can bring up mixed feelings for breeders, as they have nurtured these spirits from kittenhood to adulthood. We are very selective about their placements, as we want them to enjoy the best and happiest lives possible.
Reasons a Ragdoll Cat is Retired
If you are considering a retired Ragdoll, it is essential to inquire with the breeder about the reasons for retiring the cat from their breeding program. This will help you understand the cat's health, history, and behaviors better. Here are some potential reasons an adult Ragdoll may be retired from breeding:
Reproductive Issues: A Ragdoll may be retired due to unforeseen reproductive issues or being unable to produce offspring. Reproductive issues are always unexpected and do not impact the cat's long-term health.
Replaced by Offspring: Sometimes, breeders choose to keep offspring from their breeding cats, which can make it unnecessary to retain both the parent and the kitten since they share the same lineage.
Breeding Timeline Is 5-6 Years: The most common reason for a Ragdoll's retirement is that its breeding goals have been met. The cat may have produced the desired number of litters or contributed to the breeding program as expected.
Unhappy as a Breeding Cat: At Danu Ragdolls, our priority is the health and happiness of our cats. Occasionally, a breeding Ragdoll may not thrive in a multi-cat environment and some females may not take to motherhood.
Health Issues: Although less common, a Ragdoll might be retired due to health concerns. A breeder might bring in a cat from another cattery that turns out to be unsuitable for breeding due to health reasons, or a later-developed issue might arise in the cat's offspring. We offer these cats to loving homes at a discounted price, with full disclosure of any health issues.
Adult Ragdoll Cats for Sale
Occasionally, we may have a retired Ragdoll available for adoption at Danu Ragdolls. We request that they be placed in homes without other cats. This ensures they can be the focus of affection and enjoy a calm, stress-free atmosphere after their years of devoted service.
Benefits of Adopting a Retired Ragdoll
Depending on your living situation, an adult Ragdoll may suit your lifestyle better than a young kitten. Here are some benefits of bringing home a retired Ragdoll from Danu Ragdolls:
Lower Adoption Fee: The adoption fee for a retired adult Ragdoll is typically lower than that of a Ragdoll kitten, making them an excellent choice for individuals on a tighter budget.
Stability in Appearance: When you adopt an adult Ragdoll cat, you’ll know exactly what to expect in terms of their appearance, as they have already grown and developed.
Highest Quality: Ragdolls in breeding programs are usually of exceptional show quality, adhering to the Ragdoll Breed Standard. Ethical breeders select only the best Ragdolls concerning health, temperament, and appearance.
Stability in Personality: Ragdoll kittens are still developing their disposition. With retired adult Ragdolls, their personality is already established, and you can adopt them knowing their full temperament history.
Lounging Vibes: Retired Ragdolls have matured beyond the energetic “kitten phase.” They are generally much calmer and more relaxed compared to a young kitten, making them a better fit for some households. While they still enjoy playtime, they often prefer lounging and cuddling.