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Are you considering a ragdoll cat for adoption? They are an amazing breed of cat, but there are some things you should know before making your decision. Ragdolls make wonderful pets and can provide lots of love and companionship, but they do require a lot of care and some special considerations should be taken into account before bringing one home.
This article is going to be a complete guide for you if you are interested in this beautiful breed of cats. We’ll discuss the important things to consider before owning a ragdoll cat so that you can make the best decision for your family.
1) Personality
Ragdoll cats are known for their docile, gentle, and sweet personalities as a breed. They are very dependent on their owners and like to be by their side. Like dogs, ragdoll cats will greet you at the door when you come home. They will also sit on your lap when you are not feeling well or follow you throughout the house. This is a cat that loves affection and being very close to people, making it ideal for children and making friends with other pets in the household. Sometimes ragdoll cats even like to play fetch. If you’re looking for a ragdoll cat for adoption, be sure to give one of these sweet cats a forever home.
2) Appearance
Ragdoll cats are known for their gorgeous blue eyes and plush, semi-long coats. According to the ragdoll breed standard, there are four main patterns: bicolor, van, mitted, and colorpoint. These patterns can also appear in six major colors: seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, and cream. All ragdoll kittens are born completely white and their color becomes more evident by 8 to 12 weeks old. If you’re looking for a ragdoll cat for adoption, you’re sure to find a beautiful companion that suits your individual taste.
3) Life Expectancy
Ragdoll cats are a beautiful breed known for their loving, laid-back personalities. But did you know that ragdolls also have a reputation for being one of the longest-living cat breeds? On average, ragdolls live 15-20 years, with some ragdolls living to be 25 years old! Ragdolls are a slow-maturing cat breed that takes four years to mature. There are several factors that can help improve the lifespan of a ragdoll cat, including feeding them a high-quality raw meat diet, keeping them indoors, neutering and spaying them, and providing the best medical care. If you’re looking for a loyal feline friend that will be by your side for many years to come, consider a ragdoll cat for adoption.
4) Common Diseases
Ragdoll cats are a popular breed for those looking for a cuddly and affectionate companion. However, ragdolls are prone to certain health problems, which potential owners should be aware of. One of the most common ragdoll health problems is feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), which is a viral infection that can be fatal. Ragdolls are also at higher risk for heart disease and kidney problems.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, also known as HCM, is the most prevalent cardiac illness in cats. Cardiac anomalies cause sudden death in cats with this disease. The heart walls thicken, limiting efficiency and resulting in symptoms elsewhere in the body. Because of breed-based mutations, this condition is passed down in Ragdoll cats. The HCM mutation raises the chance of a cat developing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Reputable breeders screen ragdoll kittens for the HCM mutation and make sure that your kitten will be HCM negative to reduce the likelihood of developing HCM. So get your ragdoll kitten from a reputable breeder if you want to avoid having HCM.
As with any pet, it’s important to do your research before bringing a ragdoll cat into your home. Those who are considering adopting a ragdoll should speak with a veterinarian about the risks and how to best care for their new furry friend.
5) Social Behavior
Ragdoll cats don’t like to be alone. Ragdolls are more sociable and require greater attention than other cats. If you spend a lot of time away from home, consider getting a companion for your ragdoll. Having a buddy for your ragdoll will make sure that when you are unable to play with the cat, such as while you’re at work or asleep, your cat won’t become lonely. This may allow both of you to enjoy life just a little bit more because neither of you will be weighed down by the other’s demands for attention or lack thereof.
A lonely cat may exhibit destructive behavior such as scratching the furniture or knocking things over. So, if you are not able to give proper time to your Ragdoll cat on the daily basis, consider adopting two cats, ideally from the same litter. It will be the best decision for you as a Cat Dad or Cat Mom. Your cats will cuddle together when they sleep, wrestle with each other, and even play hide and seek.
6) Size
Ragdoll cats are extremely large cats! A fully grown male cat can weigh up to 20 pounds, while a female cat can be between 8 to 15 pounds. Don’t be fooled by their large size, ragdoll cats don’t have a killer instinct like other cats nor are they good hunters. They cannot protect themselves against stray dogs or cats so keep them inside when you aren’t there. Their large size does make them super cuddly and downright teddy-bear-like. As a result, they are great to hold and snuggle with. Just make sure to hold them with both hands to provide adequate support.
Lastly, the size of a ragdoll cat requires a bigger litter box and bigger bed so they can comfortably fit. So, if you are considering a ragdoll cat for adoption, you will need to create a living space designed for a larger cat.
7) Shedding
Ragdoll cats are a long-haired breed, and they shed a lot. The temperature, season, and their diets will have an impact on how much they shed. In the winter ragdoll cats develop a thicker coat, which they shed in spring.
While they make wonderful pets, they do require some special care to keep their long fur coats healthy and free of tangles and mats. One important aspect of ragdoll care is regular grooming. This will help to reduce shedding and keep your cat’s fur looking its best. Ragdolls typically enjoy the grooming process, so it can be a great way to bond with your new pet. If you’re considering a ragdoll cat for adoption, be sure to research the breed carefully to make sure that they are the right fit for your home and lifestyle.
8) Hypoallergenic
Ragdoll cats are often advertised as being hypoallergenic, but this is not actually the case. Ragdolls produce the same level of allergens as any other cat, and they can cause severe reactions in people with allergies. Ragdoll cats should only be considered by families who do not have any members with allergies. Most people are allergic to the saliva from cats. When cats groom they spread their saliva all over their body. The hair with the dried saliva is then shed all over the furniture and floors.
In addition, ragdolls require regular grooming to maintain their long coats, and this can also be a trigger for allergies. So if you’re looking for a hypoallergenic cat, a ragdoll is not the right choice.
9) Cost
A purebred Ragdoll Cat is not cheap. Depending on the quality and pattern of the cat, a Ragdoll kitten from a reputable breeder TICA-registered may cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500 in the United States.
When looking for a purebred cat you may hear the terms show or pet quality.
- A show-quality cat is one that has been judged to be close to the physical ideal for its breed standard at a cat show, while also having a great temperament. A show-quality cat usually costs more than a pet-quality cat.
- A pet-quality cat may have a minor cosmetic flaw, like a misplaced marking.
In terms of patterns, the classic bicolor pattern can also cost more.
Why Ragdoll Cats are known as Floppy Cats
Ragdoll cats are known for their laid-back and relaxed personality, as well as their tendency to go limp when picked up (hence the nickname “floppy cats”). While ragdolls may seem like the perfect lap cat, they are actually quite active and enjoy playing with toys. ragdolls are also very affectionate, and they bond strongly with their human companions. If you are looking for a ragdoll cat for adoption, be prepared to provide plenty of love and attention. In return, you will have a loyal and loving friend for life.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering a ragdoll cat for adoption, be sure to research the breed carefully to make sure that they are the right fit for your home and lifestyle. Ragdolls typically enjoy the grooming process, so it can be a great way to bond with your new pet. Most people are allergic to ragdoll cats’ saliva, which is spread all over their bodies when they groom. In addition, ragdolls require regular grooming to maintain their long coats. A purebred Ragdoll Cat is not cheap, and depending on the quality and pattern of the cat, a Ragdoll kitten from a reputable breeder TICA-registered may cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500 in the United States.
FAQs
Are Ragdoll Cats Hypoallergenic?
No, Ragdoll Cats are not hypoallergenic. Most people are allergic to ragdoll cats’ saliva, which is spread all over their bodies when they groom. In addition, ragdolls require regular grooming to maintain their long coats.
How Much Does a Ragdoll Cat Cost?
A purebred Ragdoll Cat is not cheap. Depending on the quality and pattern of the cat, a Ragdoll kitten from a reputable breeder TICA-registered may cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500 in the United States.
What is the Personality of a Ragdoll Cat?
Ragdoll cats are known for their laid-back and relaxed personality, as well as their tendency to go limp when picked up (hence the nickname “floppy cats”). While ragdolls may seem like the perfect lap cat, they are actually quite active and enjoy playing with toys. ragdolls are also very affectionate, and they bond strongly with their human companions. If you are looking for a ragdoll cat for adoption, be prepared to provide plenty of love and attention. In return, you will have a loyal and loving friend for life.
Do Ragdoll Cats Shed?
Yes, ragdoll cats do shed. In fact, they are considered a high-shedding breed. ragdolls require regular grooming to help reduce shedding and keep their coats healthy and mat-free.
What is the Life Expectancy of a Ragdoll Cat?
The life expectancy of a ragdoll cat is 15-20 years. This is longer than the average life expectancy for most cat breeds.
What is the Difference Between a Show-Quality and Pet-Quality Ragdoll Cat?
A show-quality ragdoll cat is one that has been judged to be close to the physical ideal for its breed standard at a cat show, while also having a great temperament. A show-quality cat usually costs more than a pet-quality cat. A pet-quality cat may have a minor cosmetic flaw, like a misplaced marking.
