Ask US Anything: 2nd Ragdoll Cat?, Colour Changes in a Seal, Long Lasting Itch

Post Published on August 7, 2018 | Last Updated on July 8, 2021 by Jenny

Our “Ask US Anything” is a series of posts on the site where I share the questions/concerns/ideas that readers have sent in and then the responses from our readers about those questions/concerns/ideas.

Advice on Getting Second Ragdoll

Laura wrote in saying, “I have a 9 month old Blue Colourpoint ragdoll. He was the last of the litter from the breeder so an only cat.

We’d like to get him a playmate. Are we best getting another male? Is a different breeder ok? How do we ensure they accept one another ok? Any other considerations?

Teddy has spent a day a week with other cats and loves their company. He goes to a Cattery and shows never responds poorly to any other cats there, he is a typical lovely mannered ragdoll.

Any advice, gratefully received.”

I replied:

Hi Laura,

How would you have replied?

Colour Changes in a Seal Ragdoll

A reader wrote in, “My 7 month old seal Ragdoll as gradually increased in darkness, especially on her face since coming to us at 13 weeks. About a month ago I noticed some thinning on her ears and tummy. We had a trip to the vets who gave her a good once over and said he wasn’t concerned and that she appeared to be in perfect health.
A month later and she is still molting a fair bit and as two really thin patches on her tummy and identical lines on both ears where the fur is missing. No redness, itching or over cleaning. She eats well, uses the litter tray fine and plays with our other kitten and is
a very loving, lively girl.
The other thing I’ve noticed after looking through early photos of her is that her face is actually lightening rather than darkening.
Now we have had some very hot weather of late and despite having fans everywhere the house at times as been hot.
Could this hair loss/coat lightening be weather related? I’ve read a few posts which say that seasonal changes can cause a ragdoll to molt and lighten in colour?
Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance.”

I replied:

Assuming there are no health issues going on, yes, Ragdolls are colorpointed cats – which means that their color changes at their points due to body temperature.

Hopefully these two articles will help:
Ragdoll Cat Color Change Charlie
Change of Hair Color in Cats

How would you have replied?

Ragdoll Cat with a Long Lasting Itch

Nancy wrote in saying, “I have a 3 year old Blue Mitted sweet Ragdoll. My problem for the past 9 months has been itching, biting and extreme licking of a few spots on her coat. Basically they are around the tail area. Breeder said to try Ivermectin which we did last week. Dr has her on Prednisone. I am worried about long term effects. Diet: Royal Cannin wet and dry. I am at my wits end!! If you or readers have any suggestions please let me know. Also lately switched to Fancy Feast wet Seems a little better. HELP!! Ps we tried food elimination diet.”

I wrote her back saying:

Many things can cause allergies. It’s always smart to start with food – but then you have to look at things like air fresheners, detergents used in the home, detergents used on your clothes and more.

• Allergies in Ragdolls: Ragdoll Cat Leo’s Cat Allergies
• Toxic Air Fresheners and Cats

I have posted your situation on our Facebook page, hoping readers might be able to provide more insight.

Here is the dedicated link to your post – please do check it again in 24 hours as more people respond:

Please let me know how else I might be able to help.

Enjoy reading common reader inquiries?  Check out more of our Ask US Anything here: Ask US Anything