Last Updated on October 14, 2021 by Jenny
This page on our site covers the Ragdoll breed description – but after having this website since 2008, I have come to learn you can’t always rely on breed descriptions. So, be sure to keep in mind if you adopt a Ragdoll cat, s/he could have all these traits, some of them or none at all.
Aren’t sure you have a Ragdoll Cat? Review our Ragdoll Cat Breeds guide this will help.
Breed Summary
| Weight | Females up to 15+ lbs (6.8 kg) Males up to 20+ lbs (9.7 kg) |
| Height | 9-13 inches |
| Length | 17-21 includes (not including tail) |
| Coat | Semi long coat, plush and silky |
| Traditional patterns | bi-color, van, mitted and colorpoint |
| Traditional colors | seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, and cream |
| Traditional points | solid, lynx, tortie, or torbie (tortie and lynx) |
| Origin | Developed in the 1960s by Anne Baker, a breeder in Riverside California |
| Eye Color | Blue eyes [controversial Minks and Solids might not have blue eyes] |
| Life Expectancy | 13-15 years |
| Qualities | Breed Score * |
|---|---|
| Gorgeous | 🐈 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
| Kid-Friendly | 🐈 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
| Pet-Friendly | 🐈 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
| Shedding | 🐈 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
| Grooming Needs | 🐈 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
| Independence | 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
| Attention Needs | 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
| Affection Towards Owner | 🐈 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
| Exercise Needs | 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
| Playfulness | 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
| Vocalization | 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
| Trainability | 🐈 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
| Intelligence | 🐈 🐈 🐈 🐈 |
Jump to:
- Breed Summary
- The Meaning Behind “Ragdoll” Cats
- A Little Ragdoll Cat History
- Ragdoll Cat Breed Characteristics
- Ragdoll Cat Health
- Ragdoll Cat Colors, Points & Patterns
- A Few Tips on Getting a Ragdoll Cat
- 60 FAQs About Ragdoll Cats!
- ❓ General Ragdoll Information
- ❓Ragdoll Health & Lifespan
- ❓ Ragdoll Cat Care
- ❓ Ragdoll Colors & Patterns
- ❓ Owning a Ragdoll Cat
- ❓ Feeding Ragdoll Cat
The Meaning Behind “Ragdoll” Cats
Ragdoll cats are known colloquially as “floppy cats”, they did, after all, get their name, “Ragdoll” from being floppy. Many Ragdoll cats are known to litterally “flop”. They adore being handled and often go limp when picked up – hence, its name and its nickname, the floppy cat (and the reason for our site name – Floppycats).
A Little Ragdoll Cat History
The History of Ragdolls is not that extensive because Ragdolls are a relatively new breed of cat compared to others. The first Ragdolls were bred in California in the 1960s by Anne Baker.
Baker bred a white Angora Persian type cat queen, Josephine, who had a Himalayan coat pattern (Siamese) to beautiful longhaired Burmese sire and Birman sire males. The breeding resulted in cats of substantial size, non-matting coat and a very equable disposition.
The kittens with the desired looks were kept and carefully line bred to keep the strain pure. In fact, all Ragdolls must be descendents of Josephine. No other strain of Persian, Birman, or Burmese has been introduced. The traits of the Ragdoll cat can only be found in Josephine’s descendents where the history of Ragdolls exists. The looks may vary slightly as to pattern or color, but the disposition must remain the same to be a Ragdoll. No one, not even the originator, can add to the lines at this time, and still have a purebred Ragdoll.
For a deeper dive into the history of Ragdolls check out this post.
Ragdoll Cat Breed Characteristics
The Ragdoll cat is probably most famous for their calm disposition compared to most cats. However, Ragdolls have a more dependent personality than other cats do. Ragdolls prefer to be near people as much as possible and enjoyed being doted on. Ragdolls are also a great breed for children. Many don’t mind being hauled around and being dressed up. The Ragdoll is an all around ideal cat.
Ragdolls, on average, are larger than most cats. The average female Ragdoll is between 14 or 15 lbs, and male Ragdolls average closer to 20 lbs, however, some males can be as big as 30 lbs. According to multiple sources, Ragdoll does not reach full maturity and size until it is 3-4 years old. Since Ragdolls have an extremely mellow disposition, they do not possess the fighting instincts of other cat breeds and therefore should not be left to roam outside.
Ragdoll Cat Health
Usually, most Ragdoll lines are free of most major health risks. Ragdolls are normally a good breed for lower health risks.
Just like any other cat breeds, Ragdolls can be prone to developing health conditions. Health starts with diet, and these websites are great at explaining cat nutrition – CatInfo.org and Feline-Nutrition.org. For a more comprehensive understanding of your Ragdoll’s health, be sure to read the cat health advice given by veterinarians ebook.
Ragdoll Cat Colors, Points & Patterns
While there are not multiple Ragdoll cat breeds, there are multiple Ragdoll patterns and colors. All Ragdoll cats are born white, but as they grow, they develop a wide variety of colors and patterns. They are colorpointed cats, which means that their bodies are lighter in color than their extremities. As for the patterns they can develop, Ragdolls can be colorpointed, mitted, bicolor, lynx point, or tortie point, as per the Ragdolls Fanciers Club International (RFCI) & Cat Fanciers Association (CFA).
If you want to see more fun photos of Ragdoll kittens changing colors as they age check out our Colorpointed Cats Transition: Ragdoll Cats
Traditional Ragdoll Colors
| Color | Description |
|---|---|
| Blue | The body of the cat is a very light gray and the extremities are a darker shade of gray – various color patterns. |
| Seal | The body is creamy white and the extremities are a very dark shade of brown. |
| Chocolate | A combination of a light-colored body and light brown extremities. |
| Lilac | The body is very light in color and the extremities are gray and cream-colored. |
| Cream | A combination of an ivory colored body and creamy extremities |
| Flame | The body is very light in color and the extremities are red or orange |
Traditional Ragdoll Points
| Points | Description |
|---|---|
| Solid | With this pattern, the cat will have colored markings on its points – the paws, ears, tail and face. Nose leather and paw prints are also pigmented, matching the points. |
| Lynx | Lynx is a variation of other patterns. It includes lynx markings – stripes or ‘pencil lines’ – within the colored points. |
| Torbie | The Torbie pattern is a combination of the tortie calico colors, with the tabby striping of the lynx pattern. |
| Tortie | Short for tortoise shell, which the pattern is said to resemble – these cats are calico-colored, which is a mix of three colors with patches of various size. |
Traditional Ragdoll Patterns
| Patterns | Description |
|---|---|
| Bicolor | This pattern has a symmetrical inverted V in the mask. The whole back will be colored, while the front and back legs will be white with a white strip on the cat’s underside. |
| Colorpointed | With this pattern, the cat will have colored markings on its points – the paws, ears, tail and face. Nose leather and paw prints are also pigmented, matching the points. |
| Van | Cats with a van pattern will only have darker points across the ears, mask and tail, which will be well defined from the rest of the white fur. Pads and noses will be pink. |
| Mitted | Ragdolls with a mitted pattern have well-defined color on the legs, ears, mask and tail. However, the front feet and back legs around the hocks will be white, as will the belly. |
More Controversial Ragdoll Color Patterns
| Color | Description |
|---|---|
| Mink | Mink Cats are just darker versions of their lighter counterparts–like Blue, Lilac, Red, Seal, Solid, and Tortie. |
| Solid | Solids come in the same three patterns and same colors as the pointed, except Seal (dark brown) is Black on solid cats. |
| Black | This color variation for Ragdolls is yet to be accepted by The International Cat Association (TICA) |
A Few Tips on Getting a Ragdoll Cat
There are a few different options you can pursue if you are looking for a Ragdoll cat for sale.
Rescuing a Ragdoll Cat
One option is Ragdoll cat rescue. There is no one go-to place for Ragdoll cat rescue, but there are a variety of smaller or regional organizations that specialize in Ragdolls to look into, or you can go for more general options like shelters. If you are looking at local shelters, be aware that Ragdolls are often mistakenly grouped under Himalayan and/or Siamese. You might also ask a breeder if they have an older Ragdoll breeding cat who needs to be retired to a permanent home.
Adopting a Ragdoll Cat
Another option is to adopt a kitten directly from a breeder, but be aware that it does take some research to find good Ragdoll cat breeders. Even breeders who are hardworking and invest a lot of time and energy into their business can still have quite a few problems. Some ways to evaluate a breeder are to check and see if their cats look healthy and happy in pictures, find out more about their reputation, for example, whether they were raised in the breeder’s home and if they were exposed to children and/or dogs. If you have children or dogs, a cat bred in this environment might be better prepared for your home. Look into multiple breeders so that you can compare these and other factors.
The breeder will present you with the official documents of the parents, including their medical background (and vaccination status). Another way to get your very own Ragdoll cat is to adopt one from a cat shelter. Even if this breed is one of the most popular ones in the world, pet abandonment is still a big issue. This way, you can save the life of a Ragdoll in need. You will be getting a companion in return.
If you’re looking to adopt Ragdoll kittens, you might be interested in our book, A Ragdoll Kitten Care Guide: Bringing Your Ragdoll Kitten Home.
Buying a Ragdoll Cat
If you are looking to buy a Ragdoll cat, then you should begin by searching for authorized catteries in your area. It is absolutely essential that you get your cat from a breeder because that is the only guarantee that you will get a purebred Ragdoll cat. The kittens in this breed look a lot like kittens of other breeds, which means that it is quite easy to get scammed, unless you seek your cat in a well-reputed cattery. You should take the time to talk to the breeders to find people with whom you connect with. You should also request to see the parents of the kittens because this should give you an idea of what the kittens will grow up to look like.
A Ragdoll cat price varies based on the quality of the cat in terms of breeder quality and show potential. With their calm and pleasant dispositions, generally good health and potentially hypoallergenic qualities, a Ragdoll cat makes a great pet, and there are plenty of rescue options or breeders out there if you are interested in giving one a loving home. There are many more resources on Floppycats about Ragdolls, a few are listed below. But you are also welcome to use our search bar at the top of the site on the right hand side. Also, you might be interested in reading stories about Ragdolls written by their owners.
Ragdoll Cat & Kitten Pricing Suggestions
A Ragdoll cat price does vary quite a bit depending on the potential show and breeder quality of the cat in question. I thought it would be fun to show the prices of the Ragdoll cats my family has purchased:
- Rags, purchased in 1989 with his brother Cosby – $350/ea
- Caymus and Murphy, purchased in 2004 – $600/ea (reduced by $50 each because my parents were buying 2)
- Charlie and Trigg, purchased in 2009 – $800/each (reduced by $50 each because I was buying 2)
Here is a break down of the prices of Ragdoll kittens that I have found (please leave comments below to let me know if prices are much higher than these):
| Quality: | Approximate Cost: | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pet (Alter) Quality | USD$850+ | (some breeders charge more for females due to the fact that spaying costs more than neutering, also some breeders will charge more for rare or non-traditional color patterns, like Torties , Creams, Lilacs and Flames) |
| Show (Alter) Quality | USD$1200- USD $2300+ | This is a Ragdoll cat that is perfectly marked to be shown at cat shows, but is spayed or neutered. |
| Breeder Quality | USD$1500- USD $2500+ | This is a Ragdoll cat that is fit for breeding and should also have been tested to be free of genetic diseases. |
| Show/Breeder Quality | USD$2300- USD $2700+ | This is a Ragdoll cat that is perfectly marked to be shown at cat shows, and is also fit for breeding. |
60 FAQs About Ragdoll Cats!
We’ve prepared a list of the most commonly asked questions about Ragdoll cats. We hope you find the answers you need right here:
❓ General Ragdoll Information
Are Ragdoll cats quiet?
Yes, they are. While they do engage in social activities and spend time with their human parents, most Ragdoll cats are not vocal. So, if you are looking for a cat to have conversations with, this may not be it. However, their quiet nature makes them ideal for apartment living
Are Ragdoll cats deaf?
No, they are not. This is one of the common misconceptions about this breed, particularly the lighter-color members such as lilac points or blue points. Their lightly-colored coats and their blue eyes have made many question their hearing, but it is not the case for Ragdoll cat
Are Ragdoll cats playful?
Energetic, curious, and engaging, Ragdoll cats have a surprising dog-like personality which will immediately show once you start living with them. This is why they actually tend to be playful and very resourceful in spending their time around the home. They can simply enjoy being by themselves by finding something to play with, and they typically relish playing with their human companions just as well.
Regardless if you’re engaging in simple physical games with your Ragdoll, such as playing catch, or if you’re stimulating it with puzzles and other specially created games, you can immediately notice how your cat becomes interested and thrilled. Having said this, here are 5 of our favorite toys for Ragdoll cats:
Yeowww! Yellow Banana Catnip Toy
Ripple Rug Cat Activity Mat
Bergan Turbo Scratcher Cat Toy
Blackhole Catch The Tail Cat Toy
Felix Katnip Tree Company Scratching Beam
What does it mean that Ragdolls have dog-like personalities?
Their dog-like personality is aimed to hint that they are very social animals that will greet you by the door and spend a lot of time with you, preferably engaged in activities. Ragdolls are also very playful cats. They are famous all across the World Wide Web for playing fetch with their owners
Are Ragdoll cats affectionate?
Yes, they are. Ragdoll cats are more interested in their human companions than other cat breeds, so you will have a friend in your Raggie. They usually spend their time in the same room as their owner, they will stay close, but they will not hover or become insistent to get attention.
Are Ragdoll cats intelligent?
Yes, they are and they are also very interested in spending time with their masters. Their intelligence is above average and it makes them very fun to be around. If you spend time with them and train them, you can get excellent results with this breed.
Are Ragdoll cats smart?
Yes, they are. Ragdolls are very smart, in fact, especially when it comes to emotional intelligence. They are very capable of communicating, offering and asking for affection from their human companions. They are astute in social intelligence and are great at communicating their needs.
Ragdolls are also quick learners – you can easily see this if you offer them interactive games that require them to use their memory and mathematical intelligence. However since they were bred to be mainly indoor cats, Ragdolls do not have great survival skills. Leave them outside for too long and they may not find a way to manage, as many other cats eventually do.
Having said this, just as with humans, intelligence is a muscle and you can always train your Ragdoll to become even smarter.
Do Ragdolls Like to Be Held?
It depends. Ragdolls have made quite a reputation for themselves in being affectionate and cuddly, but every single cat is different, just like us humans are. Some of them won’t like to be held per se, but they will show affection by following you around the home or sleeping next to you. However, they may be a bit averse to being held.
Having said this, most Ragdolls do like being picked up and held – it’s where their very name came from. When you pick them up, they tend to loosen up and relax so much, to the point that they become as limp as an actual ragdoll toy. If you notice your Ragdoll isn’t particularly fond of being picked up, make sure to reinforce positive interaction, use catnip and establish an affection routine it may come to rely on daily – you may soon notice changes.
Why Do Ragdolls Follow You Around?
Compared to other cat breeds, Ragdolls are known for genuinely loving their human companions. This will often make them eager to spend as much time with you as possible and want to get involved in whatever activity you’re involved in. It’s a well-known fact that Ragdolls have a dog-like personality, which means you can expect them to follow you around the home. If you’re going to the door to greet a guest, they’ll be there. If you’re going to the kitchen to prepare a meal, they’ll most likely accompany you.
They usually want to be around you and they fully enjoy your company, which will prompt them to follow you around the home. This trait of their personality adds to their affectionate and cuddly way of being, making them very popular among cat owners.
Are Male Ragdolls More Affectionate?
It depends. All Ragdolls have their own unique personality, regardless of their gender. Some cat owners claim that male Ragdolls are more affectionate and easygoing, while females are supposedly more aggressive in play. Having said this, both Ragdoll genders are known to be affectionate in nature.
If you’re looking to adopt a Ragdoll, don’t solely base your decision on the gender of the cat. If you can, try instead to get to know the cat and get a feel of its personality – this is a much clearer indicator of how affectionate it will be in the future, while you’re living together.
Do Ragdolls Purr?
It depends. Ragdolls are quite different from one another and there’s not a general pattern you can fit them to. However many Ragdoll owners claim their cat is talkative and highly communicative. This means Ragdolls will often become vocal in transmitting how they’re feeling, asking for their needs to be met and simply engaging with you. Purring is another way they do this and will simply melt you away. Even so, there will be Ragdolls that won’t purr all that much or perhaps not at all. It all depends on your furry friend’s individual personality and you can only discover it in time, by living together.
Do Ragdolls Like to Cuddle?
Just like humans, each Ragdoll has its own unique personality and you may find that some like to cuddle and others may shy away from it. But generally speaking Ragdolls are really fond of cuddling and this trait is a trademark of their personality. In fact, Ragdolls are known for being very affectionate. They will follow you around the house, engage in your activities and simply jump in your lap whenever they want to cuddle. They will straight out ask you to show them love by being affectionate with you and cuddling. The more mature they are in age, the more cuddly they will get – in comparison, Ragdoll kittens tend to divert their attention to whatever sparks their curiosity. These are warm cats that enjoy human companionship, warmth and quality time spent together. Apart from this, their impressive size and beautiful coat makes them extra snuggly and pleasant to hold and cuddle with.
Do ragdolls meow a lot?
Just depends on the cat, not the breed. My childhood cat, Rags, barely ever meowed – until he got older and after he went through chemo did he meow – and that was more of a grumpy meow.
My Charlie meows a lot. So much more than I was ever used to a Ragdoll meowing.
My Trigg’s meow is like a mouse squeak. Check out the video below to see the different types of meows among my parents’ two Ragdoll cats, Caymus and Murphy and my Ragdoll cats’ Charlie and Trigg.
See more Ragdoll cats meowing here.
Do Ragdolls Get Attached to One Person?
Ragdolls are known to be very outgoing and friendly all around, which means they are not prone to get attached to only one person. In fact, they love human companionship altogether and they will prove this by getting along with everyone in the household. They play well with both kids and adults, while also being open towards new people entering your home. This is precisely what gives them that dog-like quality so many cat owners tend to love about Ragdolls.
Cats usually require quite some time to warm up to people and this happens only after you’ve gained their trust. However, Ragdolls have a pretty engaging and cuddly nature, which enables them to approach people equally, without playing favorites. They love family in all its entirety and will blend in beautifully, interacting with every family member with the same amount of affection and attention. They will even play well with children, so you’ll notice them get cuddly with your youngest as well.
Are Ragdolls Dumb?
Ragdolls are not dumb in any way, but they do lack certain skills that other cats have. Although they are great at communicating their needs, asking for and offering affection, engaging with various human activities, they do falter when it comes to surviving outside. Ragdolls are mainly indoor cats and, compared to other cat breeds, they simply don’t have what it takes to survive in the wild. They are snuggly, playful and affectionate – and all these qualities make them a great fit for the home. If you bring home interactive games that put your Ragdoll’s intelligence to the test, you’ll notice how far from being dumb they really are. They have great memory, learning capacity and mathematical abilities that will quickly help them solve any puzzle and make them move to their next quest.
Why Do Ragdolls Follow You Around?
Simply put, it’s because they love your companionship. Ragdolls feel immense joy around their human companions, so they’ll often make sure to follow you wherever you go around the house. You may even find your Ragdoll next to your legs when you go to the door to greet a friend or the pizza delivery person. They are well-known for their dog-like personality, which makes them active and playful with a keen desire to be around you a lot of the time. They are communicative, affectionate and cuddly and will make sure that you notice these qualities in them. Spending quality time with their humans is extremely important to this cat breed, so expect them to be wherever you are in the home. It’s not to say that they hate being alone, but they’d much rather be with you if they can.
Which Ragdoll is the best?
The one that matches your heart’s desire.The fact is that Ragdolls are awesome cats and they can be good companions for dogs, other cats, children, and you, but you must be willing to invest equal time into this relationship. The more time you spend, the more you will receive, and the better the chance you have at finding the perfect cat for your home. Read more about Ragdoll Cat Stereotypes here.
❓Ragdoll Health & Lifespan
Do Ragdoll cats live long?
Yes, they do. Ragdoll cats are considered one of the longest living cat breeds out there. The average lifespan of a Ragdoll cat gets as high as 20 years, which puts them at the top of the list. Naturally, there are plenty of factors that might influence the development and lifespan of a cat, but Ragdolls begin with a good life expectancy, which is certainly in their favor
What is the average life expectancy of a ragdoll cat?
When my childhood Ragdoll cat, Rags was around 14 years old, I remember Googling what the average lifespan of a Ragdoll cat was. I found out that the average lifespan of a Ragdoll is 9-15 years. Of course, with Rags being 14, I wasn’t crazy about reading that! Of course, Rags died at 19.5 years old, so he helped that average grow a little bit. How do they come up with those averages anyway?
Something to remember about averages is that they are taken from a large crop of numbers – in other words, you have cats that die before 9 years of age and you have cats that die when they are older than 15 years old.
Regardless, I would always estimate around 15 years old if you are considering adopting a kitten because that kitty will be with you a long time and if you don’t see stability in your life, then it might not be the right time to adopt a cat. Of course, you can never predict the future, so you might also think your life will be stable and something can happen that alters everything. There’s not an exact to anything in life, but I believe it is important to consider the life expectancy of a kitty when you are adopting one.
Read more about the average lifespan of a ragdoll here.
At What Age Is a Ragdoll Cat Full Grown?
Ragdoll cats are known for their rather impressive size. They will often weigh between 10 to 20 pounds, with females reaching their full weight at around 10-15 lbs, while male Ragdolls can even surpass the 20 pounds mark. They are a large breed and they reach their full size when they’re about 4 years old. It takes a long time to reach full body maturity and once they do, you’ll notice how their weight complements their personality even better. This is because they are very affectionate in nature and their generous size makes them even more cuddly and comfortable to hold
What Is the Oldest Ragdoll Cat?
The usual lifespan of a Ragdoll cat is around 12-15 years, with some cats surpassing this age well towards their 20’s. On record, there is one Ragdoll cat, named Rags, that lived to be 19 ½ years old. Another Ragdoll, ‘Grandma cat’, was last reported to be 23 years old. What is certain is that you can expect your Ragdoll to live quite a lot, especially if you take proper care of it. They need a varied diet, plenty of physical and emotional presence from your part, as well as fun activities that keep them engaged and healthy. If they do go outside, you’ll need to be rigorous with their hygiene when they come back, as there are dangerous viruses they can catch. If you can follow all these care guidelines, you may enjoy a healthy and fulfilling life together with your Ragdoll for many years to come.
Are Ragdoll cats large in size?
Yes, they are. Ragdoll cats are among the largest cat breeds out there. Not only do they have long fluffy coats, but they are quite long. They typically weigh between 15 and 20 pounds, for males, and 10 to 15 pounds, respectively, for females. Their size and their adorable personality has earned them the nickname “The Gentle Giants”.
It’s important to make sure you hold them with both your hands in order to offer the proper support such large cats need. Since their size exceeds that of regular cats, you need to also ensure you adapt your living space to their requirements, by offering them spacious and sturdy napping places.
What Health Problems Do Ragdoll Cats Have?
As any other cat breeds, Ragdoll cats are also prone to certain health conditions that may or may not develop throughout their lifetime: Obesity – Ragdolls are already large in size and they may become even larger if you don’t pay attention to their diet. In order to prevent obesity from occurring, you will need to vary their diet, by switching between dry and wet food. It’s also indicated that you plan their meals, ensuring they get a predetermined food intake at regular times each day.
Bladder and kidney stones – Your Ragdolls may be prone to kidney stones as they get older, especially after, and if they’ve already had other kidney-related infections. This is often attributed to a poor diet that fails to hydrate them properly. Diversity in the diet is also key in preventing bladder stones from occurring in your Ragdoll cats. This condition develops because the body tends to retain and sediment more minerals than necessary, which then painfully block your furry friends’ bladder.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy – HCM is a common heart disease in many cats and it also affects Ragdolls. The cause is mostly genetic and there’s not much you can do about it, except to conduct a DNA test to identify this gene when they’re really young. Feline infectious peritonitis – This is a viral disease caused by a coronavirus that your cat can get from being outdoors. Weight loss, fever and lethargy are the symptoms of this disease. You can best prevent this disease by keeping rigorous hygiene whenever they come back home from freely roaming outside.
Why do Ragdoll cats vomit?
Cats vomiting is not unique to Ragdoll cats. Usually, the number one reason cats vomit is because of their diet. To learn more about feline nutrition, you can visit our page on what cats should eat here.
If you have a chronic problem with your cat vomiting, then you want to see your veterinarian to rule out a more serious underlying medical issue. Daily grooming and the proper diet will also help with hairballs if that’s a problem.
You can learn more about grooming in our ebook – Grooming the Fluff: Tips & Tricks for Grooming Ragdolls and Other Long-Haired Cats eBook
Do Ragdoll Cats Throw Up a Lot?
No, as a general rule they do not. But they may throw up for a variety of different reasons that have to do with the quality of their food, their eating pace, hairballs or emotional distress. A Ragdoll’s stomach is quite sensitive and may reject low-quality food which can result in throwing up, so make sure you prioritize a high-quality diet. They may also gobble down on their food, forgetting to be patient with chewing, so you may find your Ragdoll vomiting afterward. Especially if hairballs were involved as well.
Another reason why your Ragdoll may vomit can come as a symptom of emotional distress. Many cats will throw up when they’ve been left alone for too long, for example. It’s simply their body’s way of dealing with the unpleasant emotional situation that they can’t actually process or understand.
However, if throwing up becomes a regular occurrence, it’s important that you take your furry friend to the vet, just to make sure it’s not a symptom of anything more serious.
❓ Ragdoll Cat Care
Do Ragdolls need to be groomed often?
A good brushing frequency for Ragdoll cats would be twice a week, which is just enough to prevent hairballs from falling and to maintain their thick coat nice and smooth. A good brushing frequency for Ragdoll cats would be twice a week, which is just enough to prevent hairballs from falling and to maintain their thick coat nice and smooth.
Fortunately, despite being semi-long and pretty thick, a Ragdoll’s fur will remain relatively neat and detangled. However it’s still best if you begin grooming your furry friend early on, so that it gets used to the entire process, enabling it to ultimately see it more like a pleasant petting session. For great results, it’s recommended that you use high-quality professional tools. These will help you not only properly groom your Ragdoll cat, but also keep your house hair-free and clean. Having said this, here are 5 of our favorite grooming tools for Ragdoll cats:
Safari® Cat Shedding Comb
Zen Clipper Cat Nail Clippers
EquiGroomer Grooming Tool for Cats
Lilly Brush BE FOREVER FURLESS PET HAIR REMOVER
Jimmy JV 83 Cordless Stick Vacuum
For more tips and tricks on how you can better groom your Ragdoll, read the Grooming the Fluff: Tips & Tricks for Grooming Ragdolls and Other Long-Haired Cats eBook.
Are Ragdoll Cats Hypoallergenic?
Unlike other cat breeds, Ragdolls do not have an undercoat, which is typically the cause for excessive shedding in cats. The Ragdoll cat will still shed. They are also not hypoallergenic cats.
The other advantage of the lack of undercoat is that a lot of people that are usually allergic to cats can have a Ragdoll. Most people are either allergic to cat saliva or to their undercoat. Of course, the people allergic to cat saliva will also be allergic to a Ragdoll, however, those allergic to undercoats could not be allergic to a Ragdoll. Unfortunately, there is not an easy way to know which allergy that you have. It would need to be tested by a dermatologist. Furthermore, Ragdoll coats don’t typically mat like other longhaired cats tend to do. Therefore, Ragdolls don’t require the regular grooming nearly as frequently as other longer haired cats.
Do Ragdolls Need Special Care?
They need regular grooming – Their semi-long fur is thick and although matting does not occur frequently, they still need to be groomed at least twice a week in order to maintain the coat neat and detangled.
They need to be engaged – Since Ragdolls are pretty high-energy and love human companionship, make sure to keep them engaged regularly in games and physical activity. It’s where they shine the most, enabling their beautiful personality to fully emerge. They do manage to keep themselves entertained around the home, but they will love you all the most when you show them the attention they crave for.
Do Ragdolls Like Baths?
It depends. Each Ragdoll is different in traits and personality, but generally speaking, compared to other cat breeds, Ragdolls will be more tolerant of baths and may in fact even enjoy them. It’s important to note they are very clean cats by nature, so bathing them too often is not necessary. Many Ragdoll owners have claimed their furry friends love running water, as it actually draws their curiosity. In order for you to successfully bathe your Ragdoll cats, it’s important to start out when they’re young, so they can get used to the entire process. They also need to be gently accommodated to the bathroom environment. When you prepare their bath, make sure you use lukewarm water with which you can rinse your Ragdoll for a couple of minutes before applying the shampoo.
Can You Take Ragdoll Cats for Walks?
In short, yes, you can take your Ragdoll for a walk. Cats are typically wary of being taken outside, so you will need to go through this process slowly. If you want to take your Ragdoll for a walk in the park, it’s indicated that you take your furry friend on a leash. You may want to train your Ragdoll first, before you can expect it to be at ease with being outside like this. You may want to take a few steps, crouch and then call it to you. If your cat comes, be sure to reward it with some treats. Repeat this step a couple of times more until your Ragdoll feels safe and more relaxed. When you start out with your walks, be sure to choose a route without any distractions that may startle your Ragdoll. Watch your cat’s body language, be in tune to whatever it may tell you about how it’s feeling outside and adapt the process accordingly.
Do Ragdolls Like Water?
It depends, as each Ragdoll will react differently to water. However, it seems that Ragdolls may not be so averse to water as other cat breeds can be. In fact, many owners claim they’ve seen their Ragdolls thrilled with seeing and hearing water running down from the tap. They become curious about it and may touch the water with their paws. When it comes to baths, it’s just the same. Some Ragdolls may enjoy the process from the get-go, while others need to be trained into it with patience and care.
In general, Ragdolls are pretty open cats, they welcome new experiences and they learn quickly, so water may be another one of those realms they quickly befriend. It’s important that you get them accustomed to water at a very young age – this way they may grow up to feel very familiarized with water.
Why can’t Ragdoll cats go outside?
One of the big things about Ragdoll cats is that they are supposed to be indoor-only cats. In fact, many Ragdoll breeders make adopters sign contracts saying they won’t let their cats outside.The answer is more of an answer to “Should they go outside?” The most common reason people give as to why a Ragdoll cat should not go outside is because of their docile and too trusting nature – that they wouldn’t know how to defend themselves against predators. As with many decisions, the decision to let your Ragdoll outside is a subjective one. And also, how you’re going to let them outside. More great information on the topic here. Can Ragdolls go outside?
Why should Ragdolls be kept indoors?
This website was founded in 2008, and I’ve learned that many, many, many Ragdoll cat owners let their kitties outside through various means – taking them for walks on leads/leashes or in a stroller, or they have a catio (a safe and secure patio designed to accommodate the needs of a feline) or they let them stroll in their backyard like I do with mine.I do not endorse or suggest letting your cats outside – I strongly believe it is a personal decision based on what you’re comfortable with given your situation, your beliefs, etc.The dangers of outside vary depending on where you live. More great information on the topic here. Can Ragdolls go outside?
❓ Ragdoll Colors & Patterns
How many types of ragdolls are there?
Ragdoll cats come in a variety of patterns and colors. Each one is absolutely beautiful and elegant in its own right. The Ragdoll cat has a soft semi-long coat that does not require as regular a grooming as many other long-haired breeds. Ragdolls are born white (unless they are minks) and Ragdoll patterns and colors come in slowly.You can tell seal and blue anywhere from a few days to a week, but you cannot determine chocolate and lilac for 3-4 weeks. All color is completely evident by 8-12 weeks but Ragdoll patterns and colors do not come for about 2 years.Any cat that is a color-pointed breed (like a Ragdoll, Birman, Himalayan, Siamese, etc.) will color later in life basically because the point gene reacts to the surrounding warmth. As a result, all point kittens that have been inside their mom, with a constant warm temperature will be born as (almost) complete white.Read more about types of Ragdoll Cat Color Patterns here
How do Ragdoll cats get their coloring?
Ragdolls display a genetic mutation that affects an enzyme in the metabolic pathway between tyrosine and the final pigment, which is sensitive to temperature. This mutation makes a ragdoll’ cat coloration dependent on its body temperature. Most Ragdoll cats are bi-colored and it is all due to this mutation. In the areas of the body where the temperature is lower, such as the extremities – the paws, the edges of the ears – the fur will be darker in color, while the areas where the temperature is higher – the torso – the fur will be lighter in color.More about Ragdoll colors here.
Are all Ragdoll cats born white?
Yes, they are. All Ragdoll cats are born white, regardless of the color they will end up having as adults. In their very first days, all the kittens look alike, and then, day by day, they start to develop pigment and their fur becomes colored. However, it can take as long as two years for some color patterns to be fully developed.
Do all Ragdoll cats have blue eyes?
Do Ragdoll Cats Get Darker As They Get Older?
The most recognizable trademark of a Ragdoll cat is their impressive and luxurious coat. It’s semi-long and it gives Ragdolls the air of gentle royalty so many people have come to love. However there’s a clear difference between how Ragdolls look when they are kittens and how they are as mature cats. This is because all Ragdolls are white when they are kittens and tend to change their coat color as they grow up.
Having said this, in time you’ll notice how their fur gets colored and their pattern intensifies, making the contrast even starker against the remaining white. This change in color happens as a result of a genetic mutation that affects a particular enzyme, making the Ragdoll’s coloration dependent on its body temperature.
What Is a Blaze On a Cat?
When it comes to cats, it’s important to remember they are all unique, but they do have some patterns that can be easily identifiable. One of them is the blaze. A blaze simply refers to a white stripe or spot on your cat’s face.
The blaze may be positioned on the forehead or it can stretch a little bit more, from between the eyes to the nose and sometimes until it reaches the very tip of the cat’s nose.
What Is a Blaze On a Ragdoll Cat?
Ragdolls will often have this recognizable facial feature – the blaze. Your Ragdoll’s blaze can be very discreet or downright visible – regardless of this, you can typically expect the blaze to be white in color. With Ragdolls, you’ll most likely encounter three types of blazes:
– The star – This is a small star shape that you can notice on the forehead of your furry friend.
– The diamond – This shape is a much larger star placed on the cat’s forehead.
– The hourglass – This shape closely resembles an hourglass, displaying itself as an oblong shape running down the Ragdoll’s face, from between its eyes to their nose. This hourglass may sometimes be imperfect or broken in shape, but positioned just the same on the face.
Can Ragdoll Cats Be Grey?
Yes, Ragdolls can be grey. However, the official denomination will most likely be ‘blue’ when they are registered. The grey Ragdoll is a dilute of the stronger-colored seal and chocolate Ragdolls. The seal Ragdoll is typically the most popular Ragdoll type among cat owners, with the blue one coming in close on the second position. The grey coat makes their blue eyes pop even more, making them absolutely stunning.
The seal Ragdoll is typically the most popular Ragdoll type among cat owners, with the blue one coming in close on the second position. The grey coat makes their blue eyes pop even more, making them absolutely stunning. You’ll find this grey coloring around the nose area, the back and on the paw pads. This grey shading gradually turns to white towards the stomach area. These beautiful blue Ragdolls will often come in various patterns, such as Blue Tortie, Blue Colorpoint, Blue Lynx Mitted and Blue Lynx Bicolor.
Are flame point Ragdolls rare?
Yes, red point Ragdolls or flame point Ragdolls are among the rarest Ragdoll cats out there. While blue Ragdolls are the most popular and the most common, red ones are not so easy to come across. So, if you are looking for a cat of this color, then you may have to consult several catteries before you find one. Read more about Red Ragdolls here.
What does Blue mitted ragdoll mean?
“Blue mitted” the color pattern of a Ragdoll cat which means that the body is bluish white, of a cold tone, which shades gradually to white toward the cat’s stomach and its chest. Its points are deep blue but it has white mitts at the end of its legs and its dominant eye color is also blue. As for the nose leather and the paw pads, these are slate-colored. Mitted Ragdolls are supposed to have a white chin – but some will have a dark chin – which is OK too – but not “show quality” by Ragdoll cat show standards.
Read more details about Blue Ragdolls here.
Can a ragdoll cat be black?
This is one of the most controversial subjects in the Ragdoll community – Can Ragdolls Be Black?
While we know that Ragdolls can certainly be black, whether or not they are “legitimate” still remains highly debatable. Black Ragdoll cats can exhibit all the breed-specific features, such as the large size, the silky coat texture, and unique personality, but they do not have the traditional Ragdoll points (mask, legs, ears, blue eyes, and tails). Black Ragdolls are also referred to as solid Ragdolls, precisely due to the absence of the points on their coats. As disambiguation, solid Ragdolls, meaning Ragdoll cats of a single color, are not only black. There are also solid Ragdolls that are of other colors specific to the breed, such as white, blue, or lilac.
Moreover, there are black Ragdolls that are bi-colored. The most frequent combination of colors is black and white. While these do exhibit some points, the full array of Ragdoll-specific points is not present.
The controversy lies in the acceptance of black and other solid Ragdolls for official competitions. While more and more breeders are beginning to include solid Ragdolls, showing them in competitions is still not fully supported. According to the International Cat Association (TICA), non-pointed Ragdolls may only be shown as household pet in competitions. At the moment, they do not have official participation rights.
Can Ragdolls be black? More here.
What does a seal point Ragdoll look like?
Seal Ragdolls can come in a variety of patterns, but their dark brown fur is what makes them all seals.
– Colorpoint
– Colorpoint mitted (or sometimes just known as “Seal Mitted” or “Seal Point Mitted”)
– Mitted with a blaze
– Bicolor
– Lynx
– Tortie or Torbie
And the above patterns can be combined – for example, you can have a Seal Lynx Mitted with a blaze Ragdoll cat.
What is a seal mitted Ragdoll?
The seal mitted Ragdoll is perhaps one of the most magnificent looking felines on earth, in my humble opinion.
The seal color in a cat is one of a dark brown and then the mitted part means, quite literally, that they will have white mitts and usually a white chin. If they are mismarked like Rags, who had a brown chin, then that can happen too. It just means that they are not show quality Ragdolls.
Read more about Seal Ragdolls here.
What is the most popular ragdoll color?
The bicolor Ragdoll is a sought after color pattern and is one of the three accepted color patterns of the Ragdoll Cat breed. When looking at show quality, there are two ideal marking patterns: Minimal white and maximum white.Minimal white marked bicolor ragdolls have the pink paw pads and noses. They have an inverted and symmetrical V in the mask and almost the whole back is colored. There is white on the front and back legs and a long white strip that goes from just under the chin to the underside base of the tail. Some of the point coloration could be visible.
The seal Ragdoll is typically the most popular Ragdoll type among cat owners, with the blue one coming in close on the second position. The grey coat makes their blue eyes pop even more, making them absolutely stunning.You’ll find this grey coloring around the nose area, the back, and on the paw pads. This grey shading gradually turns to white towards the stomach area.These beautiful blue Ragdolls will often come in various patterns, such as Blue Tortie, Blue Colorpoint, Blue Lynx Mitted and Blue Lynx Bicolor.
In the maximum white marked bicolor there is, as the name suggests, more white than color. The color forms what looks like a saddle on the back of the feline. Paw pads and nose is pink and belly and legs are completely white. The mask extends past the eyes.Ragdoll kittens are born white and their colors deepen as they age. There are numerous colors that the bicolor ragdoll can come in: seal, flame, blue, and tortie. They can come in the lynx or non lynx pattern. Read more about Ragdoll cat colors and patterns here.
Do ragdolls get fluffier with age?
It really depends on several things:
Genetics – were their parents fluffy?
Temperature – Where you live and the outside temperature comes into play – for example, a Ragdoll in Minnesota has a better chance of being fluffy than one that lives in Aruba, for example.
Seasons – Some cats have a fluffier coat in the winter and lose the majority of it in the summer. During the colder months of the year, the Raggie gets its winter coat, which is visibly fluffier, but then, when the warmer months arrive, it will begin to shed and it will be left with a smoother and shorter coat.
Diet – What your kitty eats will also dictate how their coat will react/grow/shine, etc.
Read more answers about Ragdoll cat colors and patterns here.
❓ Owning a Ragdoll Cat
How can I tell if my Kitten is a Ragdoll?
Please note that there are only two ways to know for sure if your cat is a purebred Ragdoll:
If the cat has official papers from an authorized Ragdoll breeder stating that the cat is a purebred pedigreed Ragdoll.
If the cat takes a DNA test – this can confirm or deny that the cat is a Ragdoll. If your cat does not have papers from a breeder, then the only way to confirm that it is a Ragdoll is by performing a DNA test.
Aside from these two official methods, you can find out if your cat is a Ragdoll or maybe part Ragdoll by analyzing the cat, which you can read more about here.
Should I Adopt a Male or Female Kitten and Why?
Many people say that male Ragdolls tend to be sweeter, but plenty of owners of female Ragdoll cats would say the opposite. A good rule of thumb is that it’s not about the sex of the cat, but the personality in general, so the best question to ask is whether the Ragdoll cat breeder has any insight into the kitten’s personality. Read more answers on the question should adopt a male or female kitten here.
Is it better to get a male or female Ragdoll cat?
This is a question a lot of people interested in adopting a Ragdoll cat ask. Many people say that male Ragdolls tend to be sweeter, but plenty of owners of female Ragdoll cats would say the opposite. A good rule of thumb is that it’s not about the sex of the cat, but the personality in general, so the best question to ask is whether the Ragdoll cat breeder has any insight into the kitten’s personality.
– Sometimes female kittens take a little longer to transition.
– Visit with kittens of both genders and have some playtime with them, then choose a kitten you have a connection with.
– Female kittens can be a little more aggressive in play, but still strongly bond with their owners.
– Since females can become protective mothers, they might be a bit more careful and aloof.
– Often breeders want to sell male cats first because males can breed as young as 5 months, so this is why it often seems like the females are the last to sell.
– Males are usually bigger, which is what a lot of pet owners are looking for in a Ragdoll cat.
– Females might have fewer issues with UTIs and blockage than males. Do keep in mind though that a proper diet will eliminate the UTI problem entirely. Please read catinfo.org for more info.
While some believe that male cats have better temperaments than females, many owners find that there isn’t much difference once they are altered.
Try to get a pair of kittens if possible. Ragdolls are very social and need company, so a sibling or another kitty might prevent behavior issues caused by loneliness
Overall, the Ragdoll cat temperament tends to be friendly and affectionate in both genders, though it really just depends on the personality of the individual cat and the love and trust they develop with their owner. Try to focus on getting to know a kitten’s personality when you’re thinking about Ragdoll kittens for adoption, rather than relying on gender as an indicator of what they will be like.Read more answers on the question should adopt a male or female kitten here.
What can I expect or what can I plan for when I bring home my Ragdoll kitten?
We have put together a comprehensive guide that will help you know what to plan for, so you can be prepared. You can check out our A Ragdoll Kitten Care Guide: Bringing Your Ragdoll Kitten Home
At What Age Do Ragdoll Kittens Calm Down?
Ragdoll cats are known for being very relaxed and affectionate towards their human companions. However this is not always the case, since they go through different development stages, just like us. Having said this, Ragdoll Kittens are known for being more curious, energetic and difficult to keep in one place. As any other kittens, they want to explore their environments and will often find themselves in trouble, even if unwillingly.
At about 11-12 months of age, they will start to change and you’ll notice a shift in their behavior. As they leave their early childhood behind, they will become more calm and more prone to showing you affection. In time this behavior will only intensify, enabling them to grow into the cuddly personality they’re so well-known for.
Where Should My Ragdoll Kitten Sleep?
As any other kittens, Ragdoll kittens need to get properly acquainted with their new environment and sleeping space. In order for this to happen, you need to create a safe space for them. You can offer positive reinforcement whenever they sleep in their designated space or you can leave them their favorite blanket or a similar item that offers them security and comfort. Depending on what you want as well, you can train your Ragdoll to sleep in its kitty bed somewhere further away from your bedroom, at the foot of your bed or maybe even next to your pillow.
The one thing to remember about Ragdolls is that they need plenty of entertainment, since they are active and playful in nature. So make sure you leave toys around its sleeping space, so your furry friend won’t feel estranged.
Do Ragdoll Cats Scratch Furniture?
It depends. Ragdoll cats are not particularly known to scratch furniture, but they are cats, after all, and they need to sharpen their claws, so the occasional furniture damage may occur.
In order to prevent any scratching episodes from happening on your furniture, it’s essential that you get your Ragdoll a scratch post that can satisfy its needs. Just be sure to get one that’s large and sturdy enough to accommodate your cat’s impressive size. They are good learners, so they will quickly leave your furniture alone and switch to the scratch post. Here are 5 that we love to keep kitties from scratching on furniture.
Necoichi Cozy Cat Scratcher Bowl
PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge
PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge
Felix Katnip Tree Company Tall Cat Scratching Post
Felix Katnip Tree Company Scratching Beam
Are Ragdoll Cats High Maintenance?
It depends on what you understand by high maintenance, but no, Ragdolls are not known for being very high maintenance. There are some aspects you will need to consider when caring for a Ragdoll cat: Although their coat is semi-long and in need of regular brushing, it doesn’t require that much of your attention, since it’s not prone to matting. You can groom your Ragdoll around two times a week with high-quality brushes and wash your cat every once in a while.
Ragdolls are pretty active cats with an active and playful personality, which means they need to be engaged with often. This is why you need to either make sure you can spend quality time with them or give them enough stimulating toys to play with on their own. They also need regular cuddling and if you won’t give it to them, they will most likely be straightforward about asking for your affection. Due to the health conditions they may be prone to, you’ll need to pay extra attention to their diet, by making sure you combine both dry food and wet food with protein-rich raw meats.
Can you leave a ragdoll cat alone?
Every cat is different, and Ragdoll kittens who have minimal interactions with owners or other pets could still be happy and playful. On the other hand, some pet owners report that they didn’t even know their cat was lonely until they brought home another pet, and then the two became inseparable. Here are a few signs that your cat might be lonely:
Aggression – becoming aggressive or dominant with you, particularly when you are getting ready to leave the house.
Anxiety – signs of anxiety could include fear of loud noises or strangers visiting, as well as excessive grooming, which can be a cry for more attention.
Vocalization – communicating unhappiness at your departure with loud vocalizations.
Marking and Destruction – moving or wrecking household objects while your gone, or squatting and spraying – leaving feces and urine in obvious places while you are gone might be your cat’s way of conveying their unhappiness.
If your cat seems a little too sad to see you go and a little too excited for your return, it might be a sign that they are lonely in your absence. If you have asked, “how do I know if my Ragdoll cat is lonely?” This post will help.
How Do I Know If My Ragdoll Is Happy?
As with any other cat breeds, it’s quite easy to tell if your Ragdoll is happy. You’ll need to watch and interpret its body language and the way it communicates to you. First of all, you can see your Ragdoll is happy whenever it’s high energy, in the mood to play or simply following you around, ready to engage with you and other members of the household. Apart from this, your Ragdoll is also happy when relaxed and you can tell this by looking at the way it holds its body. If your Ragdoll sits or sleeps next to you, then it means it’s comfortable enough and feels safe in your presence. If its eyes are half closed and its paws tucked snuggly underneath the body, then it means your Ragdoll is absolutely relaxed and happy. Another way to tell if your Ragdoll is happy is by looking at how vocal they get. When they are happy, they will delight you with their sounds. A Ragdoll may also bring you gifts and may jump in your lap to ask for affection. This is a surefire way to know it’s happy.
Do Ragdoll Cats Need a Companion?
Cats are usually not the kind of pets you can leave alone for indefinite amounts of time and Ragdolls are certainly not any more tolerant of solitude than other cats. In fact, their affectionate nature makes them long for the human companionship they enjoy so much. They love playing, following you around, or simply cuddling with you, so be sure to be able to offer them enough quality time spent together. It’s not indicated that you get a Ragdoll if you know you’ll be away most of the day and there’s no one else that can stay at home.
Ragdolls get along just as well with kids and even with other pets, so companionship actually comes in many shapes and forms for them. Whenever you are away for too long, your Ragdoll may show symptoms such as marking, vomiting, vocalizing or aggressive behavior. Having said this, Ragdolls are a great fit for people with inconsistent and flexible schedules.
❓ Feeding Ragdoll Cat
What Food Is Best for Ragdoll Cats?
Ragdolls are known for their impressive size and luscious coat, which require offering them a proper diet. This needs to be diverse, with a good intake of protein and vitamins.
We have a page dedicated to this topic here.
It’s good to know that ragdolls should not be left outside since they can’t really defend themselves. I have been living alone for the past six months, and I want to adopt a pet to be my companion. Ragdolls seem like a great choice since they are so social and affectionate.
Hi there, i live in cape town, south africa. Adopted a ragdoll kitten. She had major health problems, took her to the vet, the vet confirmed that her body is not producing any enzimes. Is this a major illnees,can it be fixed?
I am trying everything to save her.
Any help would be appreciated.
Kind regards
Hi Valerita – I am not sure – I can ask our community of Ragdoll cat owners on Facebook for you if you email me or you can post in our Group –
Hey There!
We have a 2 year old male ragdoll at home and he is an absolute delight! We love him so much we want to get another and we were also concerned he is alone too much now that we are both working and have moved so our commute is a bit further away.
i have found a pair of male ragdolls needing rehoming that are 1 and 2 years old and was wondering what the general opinion was of bring two adult male ragdolls into the home of another adult male ragdoll and if there are any special considerations.
Our Ragdoll – Moony – was bought from a reputable breeder and had been around a lot of cats as a tiny kitten but has been the only cat in our household ever since.
The two I have found needing rehoming are a 1 year old male and a 2 year old male that the owner does not want to separate.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated 🙂
Are you still needing help with this? If so, please email me – [email protected] – and I can post this question on our Facebook page or you could join our Facebook group to see what those folks thought – fewer people are on the website to respond instantaneously like they are on Facebook.
We moved into a house a year and a half ago, and there is a neighborhood cat that visits all the time. I’m pretty sure it’s a rag doll (at least in part). And is so friendly, my 5 year old daughter loves the cat, and calls the cat Sophia- my daughter has been so silly with the cat, and the cat never reacts. Super soft, and sits on my lap if I’m outside (does the limp thing when picked up… Not sure if its boy or girl, but kitty isn’t very big now, so I’m assuming younger female?) Shocked at how mellow that cat is. Thought kitty was declawed at one point, lol. Sophia has been making quarantine life more bearable. I’ve grown a some respect for this mellow cat. I grew up with cranky barn cats, lol.
Love it – thanks for sharing – glad your daughter gets to experience a mellow cat and you too!
We adopted a rag doll and he (my son named him Sofie) became best friends with my son. He would come when called and just was my sons little friend. We are devastate as he was hit by a car a few days ago and although the vet could fix his fractured hips, he could not mend his bladder/urethra. We are soooo sad, the breeder said it’s not unusual for rag dolls to be run over??? Our friend has been looking after him during this lockdown as we had to move and they are also distraught. He was only 2 1/2 so not even an adult, we had planned for him to be around until my son was an adult! Sooooo so sad!
That is freakin’ horrible. I am so sorry – definitely one of my biggest fears.
Hi,
You seem like a person who can give me a good piece of advice 🙂 Can ragdolls be left alone for around 5-6 hours (probably no more)?I looked for the answer on many pages and some said they can’t be left even for 2 hours and some say they can be alone for 6-7 hours. I don’t know which is right. I am a teenager, I will soon start hight school. My Mom works for 5-6 hours, I will probably end lessons later (7 hours + maybe one extra class in the evening), but that means our cat would be alone just for 5-6 hours. I wrote “just” but I don’t know if it is a long amount of time or not. We consider ragdoll (I would love a white, calm, fluffy and loving cat). Our potential cat would be our only pet. Birman wouldn’t do because there aren’t many birman cat breeders (I haven’t found any yet)here, in Poland. Neva masquerade breed is a little too active (we live in the apartament in big city).
So I was wondering whether ragdoll is a right breed for us. The most important thing is whether it can be left alone (as above).
I have just found your page, but I already love it. I would be over the moon if you answered.
Thank you,
Julia
I would also be grateful for respond from anyone from this community. I love the way you talk about your cats.
Thank you very much,
Julia
Hi Julia, sure they can – many cats are left at home during the day when their owners are at work. Just because you are looking at a Ragdoll, though, doesn’t mean that they will be calm and a kitten is VERY active. Are you getting a full grown cat or a kitten? Also, I respond to emails more quickly – just a head’s up – thanks for writing. Jenny
Hi,
Thank you very much for answering my question.
Of course I don’t mind active kitten, but I heard some breeds are more active than others. I thought more of a kitten. Are there any other important things that I should know about owning a ragdoll?
Thanks,
Julia
Hi Julia,
We have a book on Amazon you might find helpful – A Ragdoll Kitten Care Guide: Bringing Your Ragdoll Kitten Home
I also offer it for free once a quarter – so be sure to subscribe to our Newsletter – I announce it there when it’s free.
Other than that, you can always read through Ragdoll of the Week stories to see what other Ragdoll cat owners have to say.
Thanks,
Jenny
Hi! 🙂
I bought my ragdoll when he was 8 months old… I contacted the breeder and she put him on a plane 1-2 days later… she was very insistent on it as she was going into hospital and I agreed because I didn’t want him to be moved around so much. The breeder told me that he was in and out of catteries, and it seems like he was also going from house to house for a while prior to me as she later mentioned that the kittens she still has are staying with different friends of hers or have been left at home alone while people come and feed them and give them water every day. She has also told me that some of the boys have pulled their coats out from stress? The reason she told me he hadn’t been sold, along with two siblings, is because they had a problem with their microchips and 2 of the kittens had their microchips switched so they had to be redone? I don’t know… it all seems really weird.
He is the gentlest kitten ever, he is 10 months old now, so I have had him for 2 months now. He loves to snuggle and loves to be pet. He has never hissed and never scratched, except for when we try to pick him up and he’s not trying to scratch but he tries to get away from us by pushing his legs against us. He becomes very panicked and I’m scared that he’ll break his neck or a leg… he will hide for such a long time afterwards and he’ll run away and hide as you walk towards him for a few days to a week afterwards… I’m not sure what to do 🙁 I feel like something could have happened in the first 8 months of his life that we haven’t been told about… being picked up, it’s not that he doesn’t like it… he’s absolutely terrified of it.
Hmmm…probably does have to be with not being handled as a kitten, but a few of ours hate to be held – but my Trigg does that launching thing. Check out our video on how to hold a Ragdoll cat to see what I mean – Trigg is at the end.
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDi4nPDM2YM%5B/embedyt%5D
Hello everyone I’m new to this site but not new to my favorite ragdoll cat named Nubs on account that he doesn’t have a tale longer than an inch. I’m was wondering if anybody has had any trouble with breathing problems such as kind of a wheezing when they’re sleeping if so any input or information on the subject would be greatly appreciated because I’m kind of worried about him
Can you take him to the vet? Or have you taken him to the vet with your concern? I am not sure anyone on here can give you advice, especially from a written message. Wouldn’t be morally sound to do so.
Hi, I have a question. Is it possible for “regular” cat to have this “floppy” behaviour? I have stray cat named Voltaire and he behaves a lot like Ragdoll, despite it don’t look like one. He’s super friendly, cuddly, welcome-at-door, forever kitten type of cat. We sometimes make jokes that he just thinks he is a dog :-). He’s big cat (about 13-14lbs) but looks more like Siberian Cat if they come with a short hair. He is kind of athletic cat, long body, long, muscular paws. He’s fur is still about half inch longer than on my other cat, and certainly double coated (he shedds like hell), but no fluffy tail or something like that. Someone told me that’s Siberian and common domestic cat mix, but he’s almost 4yo and still growing. I wonder if it is possible that he has some ragdoll/ragamuffin ancestor too or this behaviour is just a coincidence?
Sure it is – many Ragdolls do not have a floppy behavior! So in other words, being floppy isn’t a Ragdoll thing only. You could always have his DNA tested through BASEPAWS Cat DNA Test Kit to find out for sure –
My rag doll, Handsome Tazewell, just passed away June 29, 2018. He was over 21 years old. Born February 26, 1997. He was from Julia’s Dreamdolls in California. He was by my side as my daughters grew up and moved away, saw me through 2 divorces, 3 marriages, 5 houses and 7 jobs. He helped me through so many life changes and helped me celebrate milestones. He was my best friend and I miss him dearly. I miss his blue eyes, loud purr, the way he loved his chin scratched, and how he greeted me every day. I will always love him and hold him in my heart.
I am so sorry for your loss. Sounds like he was wonderful – you might consider sharing his story as Ragdoll of the Week – here is a link to the guidelines for submission: https://www.floppycats.com/ragdoll-of-the-week.html
I bought my first Ragdoll, a blue mitted, in December of 1997. I bought him as a show kitty and we did that for a few years. I was addicted and decided to breed them. That,unfortunately, was short lived due to a divorce and needing to the care of my family. I only kept my show baby. His name is KimsDolls Silver Sugarbearof Uneedarag. He was born October 4, 1997 and is still alive today. I was curious what is the oldest Ragdoll ever? Does anyone know? Does TICA have a record?
So happy you re-posted this information, Jenny! All the great information about practically anything you need to know about This Awesome Floppycat Breed in one location…PAWESOME!!! I’m so glad we opened our home and hearts to our beautiful Miss Pink Sugarbelle back in January 2013. We have not had any regrets, as she continues to delight and improve our lives on a daily basis!!!
THANK YOU for your love of Ragdolls and creating Floppycats.com! I would literally be lost without my Floppycats.com fix for the day!!!
Big hugs & Happy Holidays to you and all the Floppycatters and everyone’s furry babies!
Patti & Miss Pink Sugarbelle 🙂 <3
Yours, is one of my favorite blogs. Wonderful source of info, tips, humor and love of a beautiful breed of cats. I am so blessed to have cats in my life.
Thank you, Becca! What other blogs do you visit?
hi jenny. I recently adopted a ragdoll cat male. He is now 1 year old plus. The previous owner has advised me to keep him in the cage for 5 days. At the same time we can pamper him frequently. is that a rule to be a new keeper or owner? they said the process is to let the cat easy to control later instead of the cat control us. is that true?
whoa!! that sounds really sad to me. how big is the cage? i have never heard of this before – sounds mean, almost. what i do know is to have a safe room for him for usually 1-2 weeks – depending on the cat and depending on whether or not you have other animals in your house. the safe room allows him to have a place where he feels safe, but at the same time he can get used to the smells and sounds of your home. usually a safe room is a bedroom with a bathroom attached, so that he can go the bathroom, eat, etc. all in one spot. i have also posted your question on facebook to see what others had to say – here’s a link to that thread: https://www.facebook.com/floppycats/posts/10151804576638038
Hi I have a 4 and 1/2 month old ragdoll and i feel he’s still small. I have seen so many ragdoll who are 4 months and so big. My kitten weighs 7 pounds but look small. I feed him fancy feast, is that good. I had seen a 5month old kitten and he was way bigger that my kitty.
I had a ragdoll kitten show up under my camper shed (I didn’t know at the time that it was a ragdoll). I have two dogs (a border collie and a mix terrior). I tried to find a home for it because I was afraid my grown dogs would hurt it. But I ended up keeping him and I LOVE HIM! The dogs do also. My daughter has a Morkey she brings home every weekend and they play constantly…I have never really been a cat person, but I have been so lucky (this is what we named him) to have him in my life.
Just a note of follow up: Kaos with Early Kidney & Hyper Thyroid
He is doing REALLY WELL with 1/4 tablet of 5 mgTapazole / Methimazole per day.
He’s gained weight, his coat is soft, his eyes are clearm, he is walking, talking and stretching on the floor as usual.
He eats a variety of dry food Hill’s and MediCal – Royal Canin plus same wet food.
We still watch him for outward changes as Cat’s are masters of hiding pain.
But so far he’s doing well and we;re happy.
I am pleased he is doing well and glad that the thyroid issues are under control. is he easy to pill?
i am surprised to hear he’s on dry food with kidney issues.
Hi Jenny,
I think all animals hate pills …. like a child he sticks his tongue to the roof of his mouth !! So I just wait for the moment he drops his tongue and pop the pill in, give him a little squirt of water from the syringe to help him swallow …credit to my vet Dr. Ron Torrence, a wonderful, country type vet in the city.
It is most important that a cat with early kidney failure and Hyper thyroid eats to keep his energy up, especially as a Senior cat he needs protein like kittens.
He has been eating dry food and some wet food all of his life – Today – I tend to offer him more variety especially if I see he’s not eating.
MOST importantly I have 6 BLOOD / URINE tests over 5 years on a spread sheet so I can see what is happening by each area – this is the most critical action anyone can take … don’t just go by well it’s normal … what is the Number? How ha it changed over 6 months or 1 year?
If at any time, you’re really concerned – take your blood / urine tests for a 2nd opinion.
Along with his current behavior is the best guidance on how to care for him for longevity, with lots of love and a watchful eye. None of us live forever, but we do the very best.
This is my experience and maybe it will help someone else struggling with a similar health issue affect their baby and if you’re concerned, get a 2nd opinion of the bloodwork/urine.
I only wish the very best for everyone who have 4 legged friends in their life!
That’s great that you give him a squirt of water – I didn’t think of that when I was going through the pill popping process with my old man, but have since read of it’s importance.
Dry food makes his kidneys work harder and usually wet food has more protein – just food for thought. Have you read http://www.catinfo.org?
I had hyperthyroidism, so I understand the disease well.
Hi…I have a 3 year old Rag…..He is a beautiful boy for sure..he is a very independent boy…really doesnt want to be held…he sleeps with me but down on the foot of the bed…He is happiest if I leave him alone..LOL…occasionally he wants to be loved on and will follow me around until I stop and love on him, but that is rare….he is super sweet to me and to my little dogs…however,…he is very agressive to my other two cats…he is the baby of the cats and when I got him I was worried the other two would pick on him, but they didnt they accepted him right away…he has never warmed up to them….he will attack (usually right after all the lights go out at bedtime) and has actually scratched a big gash in my middle cats belly… Just wanted to know if anyone else’s Ragdoll is agressive like my Bailey…or if I have an exception to the rule… When I was researching the breed before I got him, I read many times that you couldnt let a Ragdoll out because they wont fight and are submissive so if confronted by another animal they could get hurt…My Bailey definitely does not fit this description at all..
Hey Debbie,
First of all congrats on your new family addition!! We had many cats that loved to be carried like a doll, in fact I have wonderful memories of Mary who we would dress in doll clothes and lay in our doll carriage to walk around when I was a little girl… OMG!!!
Ragdolls are known to have:
vivid blue eyes,
very soft skeletal system, they will lay on the floor lke a star fish ..all spread out … another mark is the the M in the fur on the forehead
hind quarter is far higher than front
huge, thick shoulder collar
usually they’re very quiet – no meows
(I thought mine had their voice box removed!)
very gentle nature
don’t shed a lot hair – but love to be brushed & held
love to be with people (mine absolutely hate to be held on their back – hissy fit!)
… there must be more characteristics but these are representative of mine – brother & sister … Kaos & Mischief ( I had to say goodbye to her, due to a tumor)
he has always been an indoor cat – they were too gorgeous to be left alone outside!! I adopted both when they were ~ 5 years old and Kao is now 16 years, with early kidney failure for last 6 years and hyper thyroid diagnosed at Christmas … he is doing well on the proper diet for EKF and a 1/4 tabliet for hyperthyroid … love him dearly and expect him to live for a long time!
Regardless of what your cat is …. love, love, love and totally enjoy him or her!!
Best of cat love, life and luck to you!
Sandra
Hi, I’m writing to ask if this could be a Ragdoll cat. No one can tell me if he is…but he seems like one. We just adopted a 2 years old fixed, fluffy long haired cat. Hes sweet and just lets my daughter carry him around without even getting mad at her. He has a sweet little meow and is just totally laid back. He’s ok with my dogs and is very lovey with a young fixed female cat we also adopted with him. Always cleaner her and doesn’t mind when she lays right on top of him. I’m wonder if if he’s not ALL Ragdoll, could he be part. He looks like a black stripped tabby….not like the “pointed” cats that I guess Ragdolls tend to be.
I’m thinking to get a ragdoll when I’m older because I’m a young teen and my parents don’t like cats of course 🙁 but I will defiantly get one since I’m very interested in this type of breed 🙂 but I’m not sure to get a boy or a girl? Are boys more affectionate than girls or are they the same?
Thanks
Sima xx
My family prefers males, but it really depends on the kitty itself – you can always ask the breeder for the sweetest kitten!
Thanks 🙂
how often do you brush them ? can you use plain baking soda?
one of my cats is fat and my other cat had tarter buildup. have tried them both on chicken necks with not much success.
at least I think jemma is fat , she is twice the size of Lucy and their only 4 months apart. but ragdolls are quite big. There is a photo of the 2 of them I posted on your facebook page today , my name on there is Jemma Lucy. what do you think ?
I brush them nearly every day. I do it right after I brush my own in the morning because they are both around. https://www.floppycats.com/how-to-brush-cat-teeth.html I cannot figure out Facebook with the new timeline stuff – I cannot find the photo. Could you please just respond directly to the email address that sends you notifications that I have responded with the photo. I probably won’t be able to tell unless you have a bird’s eye photo of them.
Hi ! I have recently adopted 2 four yr old ragdolls. What do you think is the best food to feed them for their health and stools ? and how much? currently ive been giving them hills science indoor formula dry food during the day and half a whiskers satchel morning and night. sometimes i will mix some raw cat mince with the wet food.
A lot of people say you should only feed your cats a raw diet , and so I tried this but one will not give up the dry food. others say its fine to just feed a good quality dry food only (there previous owner fed them only dry Iams) and to always keep fresh water nearby, and some will say only feed wet food or a mixture of both.
im so confused ! 🙂
hi michelle – i would recommend no more dry – EVER. i am very opposed to dry food and if you want to learn more, then you might be interested in reading catinfo.org which is a site written by a vet. if you want to learn how to get your kitties off of dry food, you can read how i did it with my Ragdoll cats. If you are having stool problems, it’s the dry food. If you are wanting healthier cats, then also get rid of the dry food – cats weren’t meant to eat dry food – in fact, it’s the furthest thing from what they would eat if they were to fend for themselves. please let me know if you have any more questions.
Hi jenny , thanks for your advice. I will read that article. how do you keep their teeth clean if on wet/raw food only ?
I brush them. It’s a fallacy that dry food helps keep their teeth clean. My vet put Charlie on Science Diet TD dry food to help clean his teeth – did just the opposite – made them worse and he became fat! you could also give them raw meat as a “treat” with bones in it to help clean their teeth that way – you might have to ask the raw food people about which meat to give to them.
I am looking for a RELIABLE, nurturing, responsible ragdoll Breeder in California.
I have a roommate, a long time friend who is allergic to cats, but we have lived with a Siberian, and he had not allergic reaction. Would like to visit a Ragdoll Cattery, to see if he is comfortable.
Thanks,
Naomi Blum,
m[email protected]
2/7/2012
213-448-3720
Hi Jen!
Bloodwork UPDATE for Kaos on Hill’s y/d – good news and not so good news
This is such a highly emotionally charged subject, because it is our dearly loved pets and they don’t speak English!
There’s a LOT of info that is meant to educate, yet it is also inflamed, conflicting, ambiguous and critical – without offering any food suggestions that WOULD HELP both the Kidney and the hyper-thyroid issues.
Futhermore, although the above issues are quoted to originate ~ 1979 when pet food became more commercialized – why hasn’t more than one company offered a pet food solution … in 30 years?
Here is my experience – December 13, 2011 to January 20, 2012 – 2 blood tests costing a few hundred dollars EACH
From what I’ve read, it seems that Hill’s y/d is for those cats which are caught at the very early stages of HyperThyroidism.
My Vet told me it is NOT A SOLUTION for Renal issues and only the bloodwork would determine that, so here it is:
In ~ 5 weeks Kaos was on Hills Y/D:
Thyroid Level – DROPPED by 50% (from 61: the very early range of HyperThyroid to 28.5) he’s still sick – not cured!
BUN levels – INCREASED by nearly 50% (from 15: just over the normal range to 27) … this is the blood urea nitrogen aka BUN
The bloodwork must be done regularly and YOU must understand your Cat (or Dog’s) results to realize if (s)he is in the early stages or higher levels – critical.
This is the only way way to determine your pet’s health status and it is costly: $200 per test and in the next 5 to 6 weeks he will have a 3rd test.
The Hill’s Y/D did exactly what they claimed it would – for Hyper Thyroid cats – it is not designed for Cats with Renal issues and my Kaos is at the early stages … we have been managing this issue for nearly 5 years – we are taking him off it and returning to a k/d and also putting him on methimizole (sp?) I did read about a natural product called L-Carnitine
I hope this helps anyone out there … just remember each pet is unique and will react differently – just like people.
take care
Sandra
btw How is Murphy??
Glad to hear you have a chinese herbal vet specialist and wishing you great success for Murphy!
Jenny,
Thank you for your note, but I’m sorry to hear of Murphy’s higher levels and in emergency care. I will send out a prayer for his immediate improvement.
btw the Holistic Vet here does have a Vet acupuncturist and chiropractor in addition to the Vet Chinese Herbal specialist … http://www.calgaryholisticvet.com/
Helen is the Manager – let her know Ralph and I were in, speaking with her Thursday about kaos’ renal and hyper thyroid condition … they have a great amount of info on their site.
Maybe a google search could help you find a Vet Herbalist close to you quickly.
If not … maybe with Murphy’s bloodwork analysis, they could prepare a Chinese Herbal remedy specifically for him that will address his levels.
My strongest prayers for you, your mom and Murphy from Ralph, Kaos and me!
xoxo
sandra,
we have found an awesome acupuncturist here – Pat Perkins – she does chinese herbs and acupuncture among other things – Charlie and Trigg have gone to her and so has Caymus, but not Murphy – he will be going now, though!
murphy came home tonight and ate like a champ. wanted more food, but my mom wanted to take it slow.
jenny
Hi Jenny,
Thank you for offering to do the video – but don’t worry right now.
Saturday morning and I just returned from the Vet .. I was concerned about his poop being so dried out and his bum, that I thought it best not to leave it, since they have such small bodies and they can’t speak.
My vet was very pleased to see him looking good and especially that he gained weight in a month!
He checked his stomach – said there was some poop inside, but it didn’t feel like a lot; checked his bum – in good shape and said he isn’t dehydrated.
To address the dry poop – ADD a SMALL AMOUNT OF OIL to his wet food, or ~ 2 cc of Lactulose per day, until it softens, then 1 time per week, you mntioned on site.
I asked what to do about addressing his renal issues – since Kaos’ levels – for the past 5 years are just on the outside of normal – low 200’s. We really did catch him at the EARLY stages, vs being in the critical 600 to 800 ranges.
We will test his blood again in late February and he feels the levels should drop, but I will keep you posted on his progress and hope that whatever we exchange, will help someone else.
Thank you!
Sandra
sounds like great news! thanks for sharing! my mom’s cat, murphy, is at the emergency vet and has been over night. if you follow us on facebook, i have been giving updates. his kidney values were high and they are recommending a kidney diet – but we will be going to the acupuncturist first!
Our cat has been on Laculose for U4 months and it’s stools are still rock hard.We have changed his diet from normal cat food to the more expensive tins but without success. We had the vet enema him in February but constipation returned within a month. Any suggestions. ???
Hi Jenny,
Thank you for sharing what must be some very bittersweet memories. I held my dear Spike, as she had her last breaths and it was the most extra-ordinary experience, she was 19 years old and I was so blessed to have had that privilege, as difficult as it was.
re: Sub Q – acknowledged your suggestion.
Kaos is not weak, but I do recognize the constipation is a problem when I’m cleaning his litterbox and he isn’t pooping … urinating yes, some vomiting yes, but very little poop … not good – toxins build up in the system … just like humans. I see now, problems that were experienced with Kaos’ sister Mischief – with the tumor – maybe not … but the vet should be stating this issue of constipation has HIGH!!
I’m unsure of how you expelled it and I felt around his bum, which he (nor I for that matter) was that comfortable … but all day, he hasn’t pooped and he did have a good amount to eat … what goes in, must come out! I did see your enema post, but couldn’t figure out what you did on the manual aspect.
thank you
Ok, then don’t worry about how to push it out – it only works when there is some stuck- so it’s in the colon, not in the large intestine. happy to do the video (and piss off Charlie in the process), if it gets to that point.
You might try iFlora to see if that helps him. iFlora can do no harm either way.
aha .. I shall add constipation to my list for the vet – never thought about that for cats, although I know Kaos has had a fit of hicups on a few occasions!
ok Sub Q very important for added moisture – do you know of any remedies to help that? I will also add that to my Holistic Vet visit list.
ok cat enemas and pushing poop – is that the anal gland to squeeze? I’m sure they don’t care for you squeezing their a$$ … just a guess 😉 I’ll read your post and may have to try it.
My vet’s friend had them and due to some changing family circumstances, had to give them up. I had said goodbye to my dearly loved Goober, a brown tabby and after 2 years was ready to find a buddy for Spike, a Balinese. One visit to my vet, the when I asked the girls about a cat for adoption on their board. They were so excited, because when Kaos and Mischief came in, they immediately thought of me with Spike and when I saw them and they saw me it was love at first sight! Although it was not so with Spike … ever, but story I should save for your weekly story 🙂
Where are you?
Kansas City, USA.
Does your holisitic vet offer acupuncture? I tried acupuncture on Rags, but in hindsight I think it was the acupuncturist not the acupuncture. In other words, it might have worked if I knew more about finding a quality acupuncturist.
Not sure what you mean by this – “ok Sub Q very important for added moisture – do you know of any remedies to help that?” – Sub Q is how you get the added moisture.
Yes, they don’t appreciate – although Rags didn’t care because he was too weak to push hard – I tried it on Charlie (he’s 2) before I sent you the email and he looked at me like I was out of my mind – but it’s the right spot. I can take a video and show you, if that’ll help.
How you acquired them is a neat story and would make for a great Ragdoll of the Week submission.
When Rags was about 2 months from dying (didn’t know he was that close at the time, but it was towards the end), he was put on Clavamox – it’s an antibiotic, but for some reason it made him feel like a million bucks. The animal communicator that I talked to on a regular basis during that time told me that he had infection, so I just told my vet and she was up for trying it out.
I also gave him iFlora made by Sedona Labs – it’s a probiotic and helps with digestion. I am not sure if it helped, but you never know.
I do have more information on this site I could give you – but it is more like the final days and my emotions, so might be too much?!
aha .. I shall add constipation to my list for the vet – never thought about that for cats, although I know Kaos has had a fit of hicups on a few occasions!
ok Sub Q very important for added moisture – do you know of any remedies to help that? I will also add that to my Holistic Vet visit list.
ok cat enemas and pushing poop – is that the anal gland to squeeze? I’m sure they don’t care for you squeezing their a$$ … just a guess 😉 I’ll read your post and may have to try it.
My vet’s friend had them and due to some changing family circumstances, had to give them up. I had said goodbye to my dearly loved Goober, a brown tabby and after 2 years was ready to find a buddy for Spike, a Balinese. One visit to my vet, the when I asked the girls about a cat for adoption on their board. They were so excited, because when Kaos and Mischief came in, they immediately thought of me with Spike and when I saw them and they saw me it was love at first sight! Although it was not so with Spike … ever, but story I should save for your weekly story 🙂
Where are you\?
my entire post just disappeared!
Hilarious warm mouse comment!!
I have a list of questions for the Vet, including the Sub Q and also possibly constipation.
Agreed – the litterbox is on my daily entry list with times.
After 1 month on the Hills y/d and I do not work for them or receive free food, but I have to be honest about my experience, as I have read some very disturbing comments that freaked me out, no one wants to know they hurting their pet, vs helping!
Since writing on Wednesday and after 1 month on Hill’s y/d
he has gained weight for a hyper thyroid cat – this is GREAT news! He’s also liking the “warm mouse food” (warm water mixed with the wet)
his blue eyes are bright again – not dark and hollow
he’s doing his BIG forward and back stretches
he’s sleeping in a relaxed curl vs tight curl
he’s talking to me, his head is up and those beautiful Ragdoll tails are swinging full and high again
his fur remains – as always – soft and silky.
I’m not giving anyone false hope or under any illusion he is healed, I know he has issues that require careful watching and health care – which I intend on doing. I’m only reporting that his condition which was so worrisome, has progressed positively.
I am also reporting my experience with Hill’s y/d as some others have villified the company – I feel so sorry for their pet loss, but cannot concur that feeding of Hill’s y/d led to their deterioration.
The y/d only addresses the thyroid – not the renal matter.
As stated previously, I will seek the Sub Q &/or Chinese herbal remedies for that side – as soon as we see the results of the new blood tests (which are bloody expensive, $200 in Calgary, but the only means in measuring the progress.)
Thank you Jenny!
Sandra
I am pleased he is doing well. Yes, constipation definitely happens because their kidneys don’t help keep everything moist – therefore my comment about Sub Q.
I gave Rags Sub Q fluids and enemas! https://www.floppycats.com/cat-enem.html
Talking about all of this brings back some memories!! I could tell you something about Rag’s constipation that was so gross – I could literally help push out his poop by pinching slightly under his tail – the part still connected to the body.
I just tried it on Charlie to see if it would work! Ha!
I didn’t know you were in Calgary. Did you get your kitties from Chatandolls?
Hi Jenny,
The holistic vet said they believe in all the Hills R&D and had toured the facility for both dogs and cats, in addition to having a rescue operation for other animals.
I have the Hill’s y/d dry out but he doesn’t care about it, he’s had the odd nibble over 1 month. The Wet Hill’s y/d he eats ~ 1/2 to 2/3 of a can per day.
I called Hill’s 1-800 line and they suggested to add water to the dry food to make a gravy mixed with the wet. I tried this, but Kaos was indifferent to it.
BUT, After reading your site and others, about the need for more water with eating the food, on Wednesday I began to mix hot water to the wet or pate food. This has had an enormous effect – he is eating more. It seems that its much softer consistency, similar to a human’s “cream of wheat” is much easier for him to eat.
Nothing was mentioned about vaccinations, but she did suggest Sub Q fluids to address the kidneys, but I will ask my Vet when we RETEST at the 4 WEEK MARK.
I also asked the Holistic Vet Clinic, if there were ANY conflicts of feeding Hill’s y/d (hyper thyroid) and supplementing it with Chinese herbs (renal) and it was emphatically no.
I will keep you posted, as I know the other site I visited was so alarming to me, that I freaked out about possibly accelerating the illness of my dearly loved Kaos!
I want to remain calm, educated and watchful for symptoms that may indicate change that isn’t favourable for him. I am not a vet, just a cat lover who wants the best, healthiest life for my indoor cat.
I will keep you posted and thank you for inviting me to participate.
Sandra
I am glad he doesn’t like the dry as much.
Don’t think I would wait on the Sub Q fluids…
Glad he likes the warm water in his food – yes, it’s like a cream of wheat! And makes the food “mouse body” temperature.
Another great website about cat diets is http://www.catinfo.org
Kaos’ litter box will be a big indication of his kidney’s state. Increased pee amount and frequency will show where the kidneys are.
I would just say no to vaccinations – but I am not a vet. It’s just what I experienced with my Rags.
Thanks for keeping us in the loop.
Hi Jen,
Thank you for your warm welcome and the work on your site for Ragdolls.
I read a few sites, which freaked me out about the Hill’s y/d, HOWEVER, I calmed down after we weighed him and he gained .6 lbs! plus from Wednesday night.
His body movements, demeanor and energy seemed to have increased a lot.
I have an appointment to take him back to the vet for follow up blood work to mark where we’re at and to monitor.
I did stop at my local holistic vets office and talked with them – very calming, very helpful in knowledge, experience and direction.
1. They assured me the Hill’s y/d was safe.
2. They have treated cats still alive in the high teens and even early 20’s with renal and hyper thyroid issues.
3. They were pleased to hear Kaos had gained weight – a very good sign – they also suggested getting back to my vet for follow up blood work. Then to address the renal matter since Hill’s/ y/d is for hyper thyroid only they said to come in for a review and they would make some Chinese herb medicine for his particular levels on the renal side, which they have had very good success with.
Now I am going to keep a daily diary for him so that I can be far more on him … maybe this is ambitious but to know they have cats that are 22 with renal and hyperthyroid (each one is different I know) has buoyed my spirits dramatically. Since he is “only” 15 years we do have so much more to look forward to!
Thank you for your time to maintain this site and share stories about cats – Ragdolls are beautiful, expressive, smart, gentle and loving catsI
Sandra
Did they recommend he stay on dry food? Or when they said Hill’s y/d was safe were they referring to the wet food?
What about vaccinations? Did you talk to them about vaccinations?
Please keep me in the loop on Kaos progress – I think a daily diary would be great and maybe you can share your experience here on Floppycats too!
Jenny
I just found your site, after searching for info on renal failure developed into hyperthyroid for my nearly 15 yr old ragdoll, Kaos. He was diagnosed nearly 5 years ago with early kidney failure alongwith his sister, Mischief. 2.5 years ago, I had to say good bye to her, as she developed a tumor in her stomach region and by the time it was discovered, it was far too late. It was a difficult thing to do, but I loved her dearly and couldn’t let her suffer for my selfishness.
Both have been a total delight, with no aggressive behaviour, gentle, beautiful fur, gorgeous eyes and the most wild sleeping positions I’ve ever seen in any of my cats! Neither drank milk or ate any human food. Mostly, they are very quiet, but most expressive with their eyes in communicating.
Kaos especially loves to hang over my left shoulder with feet swinging in the wind, he just knows he’s safe!
Nearly 5 years after being diagnosed with early kidney failure – meaning 70% of the kidneys are not working and fairly stable, perhaps because I had them on Walthams Renal Diet – dry for this time. I tried many other brands and even visited other vets to find new food, because they wouldn’t eat / didn’t like the others.
In December 2011 his behaviour changed, which I immediately took him for his annual test – I guess it should be semi annual. The liver enzyme results have now accelerated by ~25% and moved into the hyper thyroid range. I am so distressed for the turn of this news.
We changed his food to the new special diet from Hills, which thank God, he liked from the onset – both the wet and dry.
He’s not eating very much, every so often he drinks ALOT and then urinates alot, sometimes he vomits the water, he drank so fast. Other times, he seems quite normal. Sometimes his body temp is quite cool to the touch and then it is quite warm – then he seems normal. He use to REALLY STRETCH out on his back like a human, and let his legs dangle freely when he hung from my shoulder. Now he tends to curl up or sit upright and tends to hold his legs close to his body. The vet checked for tumors – by hand around his stomach but says there is nothing.
Has anyone else had a cat Ragdoll or not – with renal and hyperthyroid and what advice can you offer to watch for and care for my dearly loved Kaos in keeping him as healthy as possible.
Thank you so much for your care and concern.
Sandra
Hi Sandra,
I lost my 19.5 year old Rags to renal failure in March 2009. I talked about his Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) in a blog post about anemia in cats.
At the end of that blog post, there is a list of other articles that you can read about kidney failure.
As far as hyperthyroidism is concerned, that’s pretty manageable with anti-thryoid drugs. Your vet will be able to monitor the dosage by taking Kaos’ blood.
Your focus should be on his kidneys. Dry food is detrimental to his kidneys now – but if that’s all he’ll eat, then you probably need to feed it to him – see if he will eat it soaked in water.
You might also ask your vet about giving him Sub Q fluids. https://www.floppycats.com/administering-fluids.html
I wanted to let you know, too, that you are welcome to share Kaos and Mischief on Floppycats as Ragdoll of the Week – you can feature them individually or together.
I am so sorry to hear of your news, as I know so very well how stressful it can be.
Keep us in the loop!
Jenny
We are a retired couple and have had dogs a hairnd 2 cats during our life, all at different times. Our last dog died in 2009. Our cat Muffin who was 20 years was very special and we treated her kidney and thyroid disease for years. We really miss her and have decided to adopt another kitten if we cold find one that looked something like her. She was small with long hair, had the appearance of a calicos. with a mixture of a main coone.(Thats what people would say that knew about cats) We adopted her from the humane society anfy taild she was a stray that was turned in.We never really knew what breed or mixed breed she was. But she was a beautiful cat right to the end when she only weighed a little over 3 lbs.I would like to find a pretty kitten like Muffin. One that might grow to around 10-12bs and one that held her fluffy tail straige.ht up! Would a rag doll kitten be a good choice?
HI Mary – sounds like a Ragdoll might be a good choice for you guys. Although Ragdolls are usually larger than 10-12 lbs. I am not as sure about females. Where do you live?
We live in Banner Elk, NC which is close to Sugar Mt. in the high country
I just rescued a year old female Rag, I already own a 6 month old female rag both are spayed great health. Will there be any issues? the both are laid back and I work from home so I can keep an eye on them. By the way I used to raise and show Rotties now I can’t seem to get enough of Ragdolls.
Jeff – love it! I love when someone rescues a kitty – especially a Ragdoll. I hope you will share both of your kitties as Ragdoll of the Week – I can give you guidelines – just e-mail me at jenny [at] floppycats.com
Issues – yes, there could be. I would recommend reading my posts about how to introduce cats – it worked out beautifully for us. The problems you have is you are bringing an older kitty into your home and you may not know her history. She is also probably scared and frightened. Your 6 month old shouldn’t be too much of a problem – unless there is a weird territorial thing already in her. I would definitely recommend letting the rescued one get her bearings by closing her off in a room and letting her settle into the smells and sounds of your house – then let her explore the house while you put the 6 month old in the room that the rescue was in. This is assuming, of course, that the rescue came to you healthy.
https://www.floppycats.com/how-to-introduce-new-cats-to-your-household.html
https://www.floppycats.com/how-to-introduce-cats.html
Let me know what you think of the posts and more importantly – how it goes. It’s a frustrating process, but well worth the rewards in the end!
Thanks so much, my rescue ragdoll is now exploring my house and talking to me. I keep the younger one in the bedroom for now, so far so good the new kitty is still a bit nervous but its looking good, will post pictures soon and the full story which is pretty interesting.
Hi Jeff – I am delighted to hear it! I am excited for your submission for Ragdoll of the Week – please do e-mail it to me at jenny [at] floppycats.com
If you’re on Facebook – please post photos!! http://www.facebook.com/floppycats
I OWN A RAGDOLL, SHE’S 9 YEARS OLD. WHEN IS A RAGDOLL CONSIDERED AN ADULT? SOMEONE TOLD ME THAT RAGDOLLS ARE STILL KITTENS UNTIL THEY ARE 10 YEARS, IS THIS TRUE? THANK YOU.
Helen, no, at 9 years old she is considered a Senior. They are a full grown adult at 2-3 years old. I love the older ones! Enjoy her!! And if you want you can submit her as Ragdoll of the Week.
I wondered if you would be willing to share your Ragdoll’s story as Ragdoll of the Week on my site, Floppycats.com.
You just write something about them (guidelines are here: https://www.floppycats.com/ragdoll-of-the-week.html and an example of one is here: https://www.floppycats.com/shadow-ragdoll-of-the-week.html) and then submit it all to me at [email protected]
I hope you’re up for it! Would love to share them with other Ragdoll owners!
Thanks,
Jenny
I have just got a flame ragdoll I’ve only had him 3 days x he’s keeping me company already not leaving my side Charlie is adorable x getting me through self isolation due to the covid 19 outbreak x I would like to know how many times a year should I clip his claws he’s netting me groom him already x
Lucky you! We just got our rag doll kittens too… Your local vet will trim its nails for a small fee. You could ask the vet how frequently it’s required when you go.