Are Ragdolls Lap Cats?

A Look at Their Behavior

Ragdoll cats are renowned for their affectionate nature, often labeled as "lap cats." However, while many Ragdolls do enjoy sitting on laps, this isn't a universal trait across the breed. Like all cats, Ragdolls have unique personalities, and their affinity for laps can vary. If you're a proud owner of a Ragdoll kitten, there's a good chance it will become a lap cat, but this isn't guaranteed.

Understanding Ragdoll Behavior

Ragdolls are highly affectionate and family-friendly cats. They are known for their calm demeanor and strong bonds with their owners. However, this doesn't necessarily mean that every Ragdoll will constantly sit on your lap. It's especially worth noting that female Ragdolls can sometimes be less inclined to be lap cats compared to their male counterparts.

What Defines a "Lap Cat"?

A "lap cat" isn't just a cat that sits on your lap all the time. It broadly refers to cats that enjoy spending time close to their owners, seeking out companionship and affection. Ragdolls typically meet this description, often following their owners around the house and settling near them.

As kittens, Ragdolls are more active and playful, often engaging in energetic activities. They start to calm down and show their true "lap cat" tendencies around the age of three. Male Ragdolls, which can weigh between 15 to 20 pounds, tend to be more affectionate and insistent on lap time compared to the generally lighter and slightly more independent female Ragdolls.

Signs Your Ragdoll Wants Lap Time

Ragdolls have various ways of showing they want to be close to you:

Rubbing against your legs:

This behavior can indicate a desire for attention or affection.

-Grooming you:

A sign of deep affection, showing they consider you part of their family

Eye kisses:

Ragdolls often give a loving gaze, especially when they feel relaxed and secure.

Exposing their belly:

This indicates trust and comfort around you.

Head bops or nuzzles:

Even if they can only reach your shins, this is a clear sign of affection.

These behaviors are typical of Ragdolls, who enjoy being close to their human companions. They may not always jump into your lap, but they will often be nearby, ready for some quality time.

Do Ragdolls Become More Lap-Centric with Age?

Yes, Ragdolls, especially males, tend to become more settled and affectionate as they mature. While young, they are more playful and active, but this energy often diminishes with age, giving way to a more relaxed and cuddly demeanor. Female Ragdolls also mellow with age, though they may remain more reserved compared to males.

Final Thoughts

Ragdolls are often considered lap cats, but this label doesn't fully capture their diverse personalities. They are affectionate, loving, and companionable, traits that may or may not manifest as lap-sitting. Understanding and appreciating your Ragdoll's unique personality will enhance your bond, whether they prefer your lap or simply your company.

INTRODUCTION OF YOUR NEW Ragdoll Kitten

Welcome to Your New Home, Little One!

Bringing home a new kitten is such a joyful experience! We know you’re excited to start this new chapter with your furry friend. To ensure a smooth transition, it’s important to introduce your kitten to their new home and any existing pets slowly and carefully. Here’s a loving guide to help you and your kitten adjust comfortably, focusing on setting up a base camp and the 3-3-3 rule.

Introducing Your New Kitten

I cannot stress enough the importance of a slow introduction of your new kitty to your home and other animals. Nine times out of ten, if you think you can just put your kitten down In the living room and everything will be fine, it probably won’t be. The kitten has just left the only home and people they have known and is now with new people and possibly other pets. Smell is a big thing for cats, and they need to be able to rub their scent glands on things to know it is their home. If you have other pets, they will smell them, too. I highly recommend getting a Feliway plug-in or a calming collar to help reduce stress.

Setting Up a Base Camp

Your kitten needs a safe and secure space, which we call a “base camp,” that will be their home until they feel safe and comfortable.

Why a Base Camp?

A base camp allows your kitten to slowly adjust to their new surroundings. It provides a sense of security and minimizes stress, making the transition smoother for both your kitten and your other pets.

How to Set Up the Base Camp:

Choose a Quiet Location: Pick a quiet room where your kitten can relax without too much noise or foot traffic. This room should be off-limits to other pets initially.

Comfort Essentials:

Make sure the base camp has all the essentials like a cozy bed, litter box, food, and water. Familiar items like a blanket or toy from their previous home can help ease their transition.

Use Pheromone Diffusers:

Consider using a Feliway plug-in or calming collar( for your adult never the kitten). These products release calming pheromones that can help reduce anxiety and make your kitten feel more at ease.

Spending Time in the Base Camp:

Spend lots of time in the base camp with your kitten. If possible, set up the base camp in your bedroom so your kitten can be near you. They do not like to be alone and are used to being with their siblings. The first few nights they may cry, but this will pass soon with lots of love and reassurance. This will help them get to know you and start building trust. Watch for signs that your kitten is starting to feel comfortable—ears up, tail up, and confidently exploring. This might take days or weeks, so be patient.

The 3-3-3 Rule

The 3-3-3 rule is a helpful guideline to understand the different phases of your kitten’s adjustment period:

1. First 3 Days

Settling In:

Your kitten will likely feel overwhelmed and may be shy or hide. Allow them to stay in their base camp and explore their new environment at their own pace.

Routine and Comfort:

Establish a consistent routine for feeding, playing, and litter box usage. Spend time with your kitten in their base camp, offering gentle interactions to build trust.

2. First 3 Weeks:

Exploration:

After the initial adjustment, your kitten will become more curious and start exploring beyond their base camp. Gradually allow them access to other areas of your home, one room at a time.

Introduction to Pets:

If you have other pets, begin introductions during this phase. Start by allowing them to sniff each other through a closed door. Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to create positive associations.

3. First 3 Months:

Full Integration:

By the end of three months, your kitten should feel more comfortable and confident in their new home. They will have developed routines, bonded with you, and started forming relationships with other pets.

Ongoing Monitoring:

Continue to monitor interactions between your kitten and other pets. Ensure all pets have their own space and resources to prevent territorial issues.

Introducing Your Kitten to Other Pets

If you have other pets, introducing your new kitten to them should be done slowly and carefully.

Steps for Introduction:

Scent Exchange:

Begin by swapping bedding or toys between your new kitten and your existing pets. This helps them get used to each other’s scent.

Visual Introduction:

Allow your pets to see each other through a baby gate or cracked door. Observe their reactions and provide positive reinforcement for calm behavior.

Controlled Meetings:

Arrange short, supervised meetings in a neutral space. Keep the first few interactions brief and gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable.

Resident Cat Reactions:

It might be harder on the resident cat, and they may hiss or swat at the kitten. This is normal behavior as they establish boundaries. Never force interactions; let them approach each other at their own pace.

Supervised Time with Dogs:

Never leave the kitten alone with dogs until you are absolutely positive they have accepted the kitten. Supervise all interactions closely and ensure your kitten has a safe space to retreat if needed.

Positive Reinforcement:

Reward all pets with treats, praise, and affection during introductions to create positive associations.

Patience and Observation:

Every pet is different. Some may take longer to adjust than others. Be patient and watch for signs of stress or aggression. If necessary, seek advice from a veterinarian or animal behaviorist.

Helpful Resources:

To make the process easier for you and your kitten, here are some helpful articles and videos:

- [Introducing Your New Kitten or Cat](https://youtu.be/_Mr2uOdZj9c)

- [Introducing an Adult Cat to Your Cat](https://icatcare.org/advice/introducing-an-adult-cat-to-your-cat/)

- [Helping Your New Cat or Kitten Settle In](https://icatcare.org/advice/helping-your-new-cat-or-kitten-settle-in/)

With patience and love, your new kitten will soon feel at home, forming strong bonds with you and your other pets, bringing joy and companionship to your family. Enjoy this special time with your new furry friend!

How to Spot Kitten Scammers: Protect Yourself When Buying a New Furry Friend

Purchasing a kitten can be an exciting time, but it’s important to be aware of potential scams. Unfortunately, the rise in online pet sales has led to an increase in fraudulent sellers. Since 2020 I have seen a significant rise in scams and backyard breeders. Here’s how to protect yourself from scammers when searching for a new feline friend.

1. Research the Breeder

Before making any decisions, thoroughly research the breeder.

Look for:

- A Professional Website: Legitimate breeders often have detailed, professional websites with information about their breeding practices, kitten care, and contact details.

- Reviews and Testimonials: Check for positive feedback from previous buyers. Genuine breeders will have a trail of satisfied customers.

- Social Media Presence: Authentic breeders often share updates and interact with buyers on social media platforms.

2. Beware of Red Flags

Certain warning signs can indicate a scam:

- Too-Good-To-Be-True Prices: If the price of the kitten is significantly lower than the market rate, it’s likely a scam. It’s very expensive to raise a litter of kittens without cutting corners.

- Stock Photos: Scammers often use generic or stolen photos. Reverse image search the photos to see if they appear on multiple websites.

- Poor Communication: Scammers may avoid phone calls, video calls, or in-person visits. Genuine breeders will be open to communicating through various channels. Their language seems off usually they are in another country.

3. Spotting Backyard Breeders

Low prices can sometimes indicate a backyard breeder. Here’s what to look out for:

- Very Low Prices: Extremely low prices can be a sign of a backyard breeder trying to make a quick profit without proper care for the kittens.

- Sick Kitten: Backyard breeders may not provide adequate veterinary care, leading to health issues in the kittens.

- inbreeding: To save costs, some backyard breeders inbreed their cats, leading to genetic health problems.

-Allowing Kittens to Leave by 8 Weeks Old: Reputable breeders keep kittens until they are at least 12 weeks old to ensure proper development and socialization. Allowing kittens to leave at 8 weeks is a red flag. From 8 weeks on the cost of care of the kitten rises significantly which is why they let them leave. You will not get a well adjusted kitten and will have many issues.

4. Ask Detailed Questions

Engage the breeder with specific questions about the kitten:

Health and Vaccination Records: Ask for documentation of vaccinations, health checks, and any medical history.

Parent Information: Inquire about the kitten’s parents, including their health and temperament.

Living Conditions: Ask about the environment the kittens are raised in.

5. Verify Documentation

Request and verify all necessary paperwork:

Pedigree Papers: Ensure the kitten is registered with a reputable cat registry.

Contract and Guarantees: A legitimate breeder will provide a contract outlining the terms of sale, health guarantees, and return policies.

6. Use Safe Communication and Payment Methods

Even though some breeders, like us, operate closed catteries, you should still ask for video calls or FaceTime sessions to interact with the breeder and see the kittens in real-time if you feel unsure if the breeder is legit.

Deposits and Payments: Breeders usually ask for a deposit and the final payment upon delivery. Be wary of those asking for full payment upfront.

Payment Methods: Never send prepaid cards.

Delivery Offers: Avoid offers that promise doorstep delivery for a suspiciously low cost. Legitimate shipping costs are often higher. Never are they included in the cost of the kitten. Avoid companies called "international company". That would only be used if importing a kitten.

7. Avoid Risky Social Media Groups

Be cautious with social media groups:

Scammer Groups: Avoid groups on social media with names like “Ragdoll Kittens for Sale” and “Rehoming.” These are often hotspots for known scammers.

8. Protecting Breeders

Scammers target breeders too. This is why breeders must also protect themselves. We ask for payments via friends and family methods because people sometimes try to get their money back after receiving the kitten they want, attempting to get a free kitten.

9. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your gut and be prepared to walk away if anything raises your suspicion. Don’t fall for tactics to make you feel guilty of the kittens well being. No kitten is kept in a warehouse nor stuck in a cage in transport if you don’t pay more money.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect kitten requires diligence and caution. By following these steps, you can protect yourself from scammers and ensure that your new furry friend comes from a reputable source. Happy kitten hunting!

https://youtu.be/zOi8BxcGAiA?si=9LzKyQYcP6QxOS-L

Feel free to share your experiences or additional tips in the comments below. Let’s work together to keep our community safe from scammers!