Why are some breeders charging more for “rare” mink and solid colored Ragdolls?
I dont have an answer for that. I personally know over 30 Ragdoll breeders who sell non-traditional, colored Ragdolls. I think there are several hundred breeders working with these colors. Here we dont charge more for a Blue Eyed Solid White, a Mink or a Solid. They are the same kittens as their traditional litter mates from one traditional parent. Some colors only come around once a year, but I dont believe people should be charged more for a color preference. We do charge more for show quality kittens.
I do know an answer to your question! These Breeders are claiming a "Rarity" factor within their pricing structure because most ethical Ragdoll Breeders adhere to the Ragdoll Breeding Standard which states all Ragdoll cats are Blue-eyed and Colorpointed. Mink Ragdolls are "Rare" and therefore more costly because all "true Ragdoll Breeders" refuse to Breed them! All ethical Ragdoll Breeders also know that the sepia color gene which produces the "Rare" Mink coloration was obtained by outcrossing to the RagaMuffin Breed. Mink Ragdolls are unaccepted and unacceptable Ragdoll Breed Variants colors.Outcrossing to other Breeds IS also NOT ACCEPTABLE within the written Ragdoll Breed Standards.The question should be "Why pay more for a Breed Variant"? Please follow the provided link for a clearer unstanding about these ‘Rare" Mink Ragdoll Breed Variants.
http://www.eiserblew.co.uk/ragamuffin.htm
Curt Gehm
