Tips for caring for your Ragdoll

 

Ragdolls are large cats that have a beautiful coat, calm disposition, very docile sweet natured who love their families. They are often considered the cat dog because of their personality.

 

 

1.  Attention
   Ragdolls love their humans and are attention seekers. While many breeds of cats are independent and are fine being alone, Ragdolls are not. They love being with their families and will follow you every where. If you work long hours it is best to get two ragdolls to keep each other company. They love to be in the middle of all activities and expect your attention.
    

2. Grooming 
   Ragdolls have longer fur than many breeds of cats and although they do a good job of cleaning themselves, they do require brushing at least once a week. They have bunny like fur and it doesn't mat as easy but it can mat if left unattended. it also provides a way of connecting with your cat.
    

3. Feeding
   Unlike most breeds, they grow until age four and will need extra food during growth spurts. High Protein foods are important and avoid high grain content. I can provide recommendations on food brands if desired. It is also important to feed your kitty wet food for the extra moisture, as some cats don't drink a lot. I also put a small amount of canned pumpkin and probiotics in their food. It's a great source of fiber and nutrients. It also helps with diarrhea and constipation. Ragdolls love fountains, it is another way to get them to drink more to avoid kidney issues.
    

4. Toys
   Ragdolls are like children, they love toys. It's funny to watch them when new toys are brought in the house. They can't wait to get to it. They love cat trees, wands, tunnels, lasers, anything they can chase and bat at. But I think their all time favorite is a box.( simple) 
    

5. Indoors vs Outdoors
   Ragdolls are inside cats and shouldn't be allowed outside. They aren't very good about defending themselves against danger and animals that may harm them. They aren't defensive cats and have a very trusting nature, which can put them in danger. Keeping them inside also prevents diseases, parasites, worms and fleas. If you do decide to take them outside PLEASE monitor them at all times.
    

6. Kids
   Monitor your kittens around kids. Little ones don't always play gentle with pets and need guidance on how to handle a kitten. Some cats are defensive and will protect themselves against rough handling. But ragdolls, due to their extremely gentle and passive nature, are more apt to get injured by children. We also don't want children to get scratched by the kitten.
    

7. Pets
   With a new kitten or cat, allow them time to adjust to their new environment first. Keep the kitten separate from pets and slowly introduce them. First, by smelling each other through a door, then place the kitten in a kennel where they can see each other. Eventually they'll be able to meet with you present, when you are sure older pet has accepted the kitten. Before you know it, they will be best buddies.
    

8. New Environment
   All kittens react differently to new environments. Some take to it right away, others need time and patience to adapt. But I promise they will adapt. They have been taken away from their mom and siblings, old family and home and plopped in a new home with new smells, sights and a new family. Give them space if needed, they will come around after they trust you. I expose my kittens to soft classical music to sleep and it works wonders to calm them down. My husband didn't believe me until one night I was at work and he texted and said the kittens wouldn't calm down and sleep. I told him to put on the music and like magic, out they were. Diffuser pheromones is also very helpful.
    

9. Vaccinations
   Ragdolls are sensitive to vaccinations, always only get one at a time. Never get the feline Leukemia, as many ragdolls have died from it. This vaccine is for outdoor cats that could be exposed to this deadly disease. Rabies vaccine also should be given alone, as it can be hard on them. We sometimes have to be the voices for our fur babies. Some vets aren't aware of these issues with ragdolls. It's okay to say NO!!!
    

10. Nails
    Clip the kitten's nails at least once a month. the earlier you start this the easier it will be. Pick a time when they are sleepy to cut their nails. I find it works wonders wrapping them in a towel or blanket with only the paw exposed that you are clipping. Make sure to provide a scratching post or pad for kittens to use to prevent scratching of furniture.
     

11. Litter
    Kittens should start with non-clumping litter, they are babies and everything goes in their mouths (yuck, I know). Clumping litter can be very dangerous since it swells in their belly and causes a blockage that can be life threatening.  Keep litter boxes near where the kitten will be so they quickly learn where to go to the bathroom.
     

12. Beds
    They love to snuggle and kneed in soft fluffy beds. Cat coves and round beds are great.
     

13. Danger
    Young kittens don't sense danger. Keep them away from stairs with opening because they will jump. Or high cat trees until they are older (short ones are great.) Keep blind cords and electric cords out of reach, they can chew on them and electrocute themselves. Keep laundry doors closed and make it a habit to check the washer and dryer before turning them  on, as  I have know of some awful accidents. Keep the toilet bowl lid down in every bathroom. They are small and may get caught in the bowl.