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Did you just welcome a Ragdoll into your life, or are you planning on it? You may feel overwhelmed about their how to care for these lovable fluffballs, but don’t worry. Caring for Ragdoll cats is easier than you may suspect.
In this post, you’ll cover the basics of Ragdoll grooming, health, diet and playtime.
Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- An Introduction to Caring for Ragdoll Cats
- Ragdoll Cat Grooming
- Ragdoll Cat Health
- The Ragdoll Diet
- Ragdoll Playtime
- Summary – Caring for Ragdoll Cats
- Related Posts
An Introduction to Caring for Ragdoll Cats
There are some tenets of caring for Ragdolls that can be applied to any cat… however the longer Ragdoll coat does require slightly different management than many shorter coated breeds.
Most Ragdolls need regular grooming especially if you allow yours to venture outside.
That said, if you’ve owned a cat before, you’ll probably find that caring for a Ragdoll is pretty much the same as any other breed.
Grooming
If you’ve never had a long-haired kitty, you may be new to the world of required cat grooming. Ragdoll coats are long and luxurious. While they may come in different shades and patterns, pure Ragdolls are famous for their colorpoint coats.
Grooming is a critical part of Ragdoll care. Brush them once or twice weekly to remove loose hair, detangle any knots, and prevent matting. Well-groomed fur also reduces the risk of infections and furballs. Plus, it keeps your floppy feline looking silky and smooth!
So, what’s the best brush to use? Most regular cat brushes will do the trick. You can try a few to see which one your Ragdoll enjoys most. A slicker brush, which has wire bristles, works wonderfully.
A silicone brush massages your fur baby as it detangles and cleanses the fur of debris. These brushes are flexible and gentle. Your Ragdoll is sure to appreciate the relaxing feeling of those silicone teeth.
Does your Ragdoll already have several knots or matted areas? Then, consider a wide-toothed comb. Combs will gently work their way through knots. You may want to start a grooming session with a comb, then switch to another brush.
Be cautious with de-shedders or undercoat-thinning brushes, as they may be too harsh for Ragdoll coats. Ragdolls do not have undercoats, so such a brush would damage their gorgeous topcoat.
Of course, consider taking advice from your vet or a professional groomer if you’re unsure which brush is best!
How Much Do Ragdoll Cats Shed?
Ragdoll Cat Health
Ragdolls are typically happy, healthy kitties that live around 15 to 20 years. Regular vet check-ups and consistent care will help keep your Ragdoll in tip-top shape during her lifetime. Of course, like any species, they’re predisposed to a few health conditions, as follows:
- Heart Disease
- Kidney Disease
- Feline Infectious Peritonitis
- Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
- Cryptococcosis
Healthy Ragdolls come from safe and reputable breeders. So, during your kitten search, pay close attention to the source of your new fluffy friend. Good Ragdoll breeders will also help you with genetic testing and answer questions about health risks.
Ragdoll Diet
Diet is a huge part of your Ragdoll’s health, no question about it! So, when it comes to what you feed your kitty, your duty as a pet parent is pivotal. Diverse diets with plenty of protein and vitamins will work wonders for your Ragdoll.
Look for cat food that contains high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Ragdolls tend to overeat, so be sure to portion out their meals. If you leave food out all day, they may gobble it all up! Follow the recommended feeding guidelines on the cat food packaging. Adjust as needed based on your cat’s weight and activity level.
Don’t forget about your Ragdoll’s hydration station! Keep her water bowl filled with fresh water at all times. Change her water bowl daily and keep it clean to prevent unwanted bacteria.
Unquestionably, kitties love wet food, and your Ragdoll is no different. Fortunately, wet food provides additional hydration and can even help prevent urinary tract issues.
You may be tempted to feed your fluffy companion some of the delicious foods you eat. But hold onto your bacon strips! Avoid feeding your kitty human food, as this can upset her stomach and lead to weight gain. At the very least, keep unhealthy food or snacks to a minimum.
Now, if your Ragdoll seems to have an insatiable appetite, you may want to call the vet. Nonstop eating or binge eating may signify one of the following health challenges:
- Intestinal parasites
- Diabetes
- Hyperthyroidism
- Age and growth rate
- Fast metabolism
- Pregnancy
- Anxiety, depression, and boredom
- Low-quality food
Always play it safe by consulting your vet if you have any questions or concerns about your cat’s nutrition! However, if you feed your Ragdoll 2 to 3 nutritious meals per day, her diet should be sufficient.
Bon appetit!
Ragdoll Playtime
Providing proper playtime and attention to your beloved Ragdoll is essential to their care. As with other active breeds, playtime is critical for our floppy friends. Regular play sessions help keep them in prime mental and physical shape.
So, what kind of toys should you gift your fur baby? Ragdolls treasure toys that provoke interactive play. Think wand toys, laser pointers, and balls. Get creative! Try a variety of toys to see what your kitty likes best.
Dedicate a specific time for play every day. This commitment helps your kitty know what to expect and get excited about her playtime. Make sure your play area is safe and free of any potential hazards. It could spell trouble if you have an exquisite glass vase in the middle of your Ragdoll’s typical play area. Also, remove small objects that could accidentally go down the wrong pipe.
Remember to give your cat plenty of attention outside of playtime as well. Ragdoll cats are known for their affectionate nature and thrive on human interaction. Spend time petting, cuddling, and talking to your cat every day. When you love on your Ragdoll, she’ll love on you, too!
By following these tips, you can provide your Ragdoll with the proper playtime and attention they need to live a happy and healthy life. It’s certainly not rocket science, but it does take a high level of devotion. As a pet parent, you should feel honored to have such a wonderful little companion to hang out with!
What is the Lifespan of Ragdoll Cats
Summary – Caring for Ragdoll Cats
In conclusion, caring for Ragdoll cats may seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be a walk in the park – or a leisurely nap on the windowsill!
Remember to keep your feline friend well-groomed, feed it a healthy diet, and engage in stimulating playtime.
And, of course, don’t forget to show them plenty of love and affection. After all, our Ragdolls are not just pets… they’re family!
Do you have a Ragdoll? How do you find caring for a Ragdoll cat? Any tips are highly appreciated and can be left in the comment section at the bottom of this page.
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- Ragdoll Cat Coloring
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