TICA Registration and Why It Is Important
TICA registered breeders follow defined breed standards. This practice helps preserve the breed's quality and integrity, ensuring that their cats exhibit the expected physical and behavioral characteristics of their breed. Cookie, pictured here, was born all white with pink noses, a signature of the Ragdoll breed. As the kittens mature, each develop unique markings. Cookie has developed white ‘gloves’ or mitts and darker limbs and a dark nose. Those blue eyes, another hallmark of the Ragdoll breed.
TICA Registration and Why It Is Important
Purchasing from a TICA (The International Cat Association) registered cat breeder matters for several reasons:
Breed Standards and Quality: TICA registered breeders adhere to specific breed standards, ensuring that the cats meet the physical and behavioral traits expected of their breed. This helps maintain the quality and integrity of the breed.
Health and Genetic Screening: TICA breeders often follow guidelines for health and genetic screening. They are more likely to provide documentation that the kittens and their parents have been tested for genetic diseases common in the breed, reducing the risk of hereditary health issues.
Ethical Breeding Practices: TICA registered breeders are expected to follow ethical breeding practices. This includes not overbreeding their cats, ensuring proper veterinary care, and raising kittens in a healthy and humane environment.
Documentation and Pedigree: When purchasing from a TICA registered breeder, you receive proper documentation and a pedigree certificate for your cat. This is important if you plan to show your cat or if you want assurance of the cat's lineage.
Support and Resources: TICA breeders are often part of a network of knowledgeable cat enthusiasts and can provide valuable support and resources. They can offer advice on care, feeding, and health concerns, as well as assist with any issues that may arise as your kitten grows.
Accountability: Being registered with TICA means the breeder is accountable to a larger governing body. If any issues arise, there is a formal organization to report to, which can offer recourse and assistance.
Contribution to Breed Development: Purchasing from a TICA breeder supports efforts to improve and develop the breed. These breeders often participate in shows and contribute to the advancement of breeding programs that focus on health, temperament, and conformation to standards.
Overall, buying from a TICA registered breeder provides assurance of a well-bred, healthy cat and supports ethical and responsible breeding practices.
