CHAPTERS

Chapter Three: Ragdoll Requirements

Are you now thinking of getting a Ragdoll cat? Excellent! After knowing what they are, their behaviors, and how to deal with them, it’s time to give you practical tips on what you need to know before buying one.

In this chapter, you will get a whole lot of information on its pros and cons, its average associated costs as well as the licensing you need so that you will be well on your way to becoming a legitimate Ragdoll pet owner – should you decide to be one! It’s up to you! Read on!

Pros and Cons of Ragdoll Cats

The information listed below is the advantages and disadvantages of owning a Ragdoll cat:

Pros

• Personality: They are gentle, docile and sweet
• Appearance: Has fluffy coating, smooth and silky

      skin, and very pleasing to the eyes.

• Behavior: Not aggressive and gets along with other cats or pets if properly introduced
• Impact on Humans: Loves children and people in general, entertaining and very loyal. A truly great companion.

Cons

• Hygiene: Due to their long coats, these cats shed a lot. You may be required to brush them several times a week.
• Behavior: Does not do well in isolation, needs lots of attention
• Health: Prone to some health issues and has a short life span

License Requirements

If you are planning to acquire a Ragdoll as your pet, there are certain restrictions and regulations that you need to be aware of. Licensing requirements for pets varies in different countries, regions, and states.

In the United States there are no federal requirements for licensing either cats or dogs – these rules are regulated at the state level. While it is true that most states do not have a mandatory requirement for people to license their cats, it is always a good idea to do so because it will not only serve as protection for your pet but also for you.

Here are some things you need to know regarding the acquirement of Ragdoll cats both in United States and in Great Britain.

United States Licensing for Cats

The average annual license cost is $10.00. Cat licenses for senior citizens are $5.00. Costs may vary depending on state.

When you acquire license for your cat you will be given a cat number that can then be linked to your contact information. If your cat gets lost and someone finds it, its license can be used to track you down so that they’ll be able to return to you your pet. Of course, this information will only be available if your cat wears a collar with an ID tag.

It is also ideal that four month old cats and up as well as indoor cats should still have a license because it is required by municipal law. Even those cats that never leave the house have a way of getting out through accidentally open doors, gates, or windows. Also, a natural disaster like an earthquake or fire may cause your pet to flee the safety of your property; having your Ragdoll cat licensed, will help reunite your lost pet with you.

If you want to apply for a cat license, you can search the website of your municipal or state government online. You will be able to download the application form and just follow the procedure. After filling up the form, you can mail it to their office together with a fee, in some states there is currently no fee for a cat license so make sure to check first and find out how much it cost.

Documentary requirements must be submitted before permanently getting a pet license. They are as follows:

• Residents must include the current rabies certificate,
• Proof of spay and neuter, and microchip (if applicable) to make the license current.

In most states, these are the main documents needed to get a cat license. There might be additional requirements that need to be submitted in other states. The license will be considered temporary status until all documents are received.

If you don’t want to put a collar on your cat a good alternative option is to have it micro-chipped. A microchip serves the same function but they can be embedded under your cat’s skin so that it won’t be lost. The procedure for having your cat micro-chipped is very quick and painless.

Great Britain Licensing for Cats 

In Great Britain, licensing requirements for pets are a little different than they are in the United States. There are no overarching licensing requirements for cats in the Great Britain but you will need to get a special permit if you plan to travel with your cat into or out of the country.

Your cat may also be subject to a quarantine period to make sure he isn’t carrying a disease like rabies – rabies has been eradicated from Great Britain through safety measures like these so it is important to maintain them.

Ragdoll Cats Behavior with Children and Pets

Generally, Ragdoll cats are lively and very interactive, that is why it’s a perfect choice for families with children. There is actually no general rule when introducing your pet with other types of animals, sometimes they’ll get along, sometimes they won’t.

Fortunately, Ragdoll cats are such friendly creatures, they tend to get along with other cat species as well as other pets like dogs. You can expect your cat to accept others but do so with caution so that they could easily warm up with their new animal friends.

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