Renowned for their lovable personality, blue-eyed Ragdolls are one of the popular choices as family pets. Although these felines are relatively low-maintenance, they require a maximum time of attention from their owners. Whether you have recently rehomed a Ragdoll or currently considering getting one, we have put together a list of essential tips for you on Ragdoll cat care.
Ragdoll cats as pets
The Ragdoll cat is a friendly large cat breed that adores human companionship. They get on well with children and other pets too which makes them one of the best cat breeds as family pets. They are the masters of relaxation with a very docile temperament. However, if not properly socialised, these felines can grow up being skittish and shy. It is essential to cultivate its personality on the first 13 weeks of your kitten’s life.
Is the Ragdoll cat hypoallergenic?
Ragdolls are not hypoallergenic. The cat’s dried saliva and undercoat are two elements that trigger allergic reactions. Although this breed has no undercoat, the cat’s saliva may still cause allergies. However, it is said that people who are only allergic to pet dander may not have any reaction when exposed to a Ragdoll cat.
To ensure your health, it is important to get tested with an allergist and find out which allergens to avoid. Find time to visit a friend with a Ragdoll cat and observe if there are any reactions before getting your own.
How bad do Ragdoll cats shed?
The Ragdoll cat is a magnificent-looking feline with a soft and silky semi-longhaired coat. However, grooming requirements in Ragdolls are not as demanding as some other long-haired breeds such as the Persian.
Ragdolls occasionally shed and it may vary from cat to cat. There are a few factors that affect the amount of shedding. This includes the change of season, climate, and diet. They may grow thicker and heavier coat to welcome winter and may shed the coat off on warmer months. Thus, shedding becomes a bit of a problem in the spring season.
How often do I need to brush my Ragdoll cat?
Ragdolls have a soft, luscious coat that requires frequent brushing. They are generally easy to brush through using a soft-bristled brush.
They tend to groom themselves often. As a result, they will likely ingest their loose hair whilst carrying out self-grooming, and this could be harmful to your feline as it leads to health complications. Avoid hair fall by following a regular brushing from his head towards the tail. As an affectionate breed, this feline often enjoys grooming sessions with you.
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Why are Ragdolls better suited indoors?
The Ragdoll cat has a laid-back personality. They are social and loving which makes them vulnerable against other cats and predators. They are best kept indoors.
What are the breed-related health problems in Ragdoll cats?
This feline is predisposed to several hereditary health issues:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
About 30 per cent of Ragdoll cats is affected by a genetic mutation that causes hypertrophic cardiomyopathy to develop. This is a heart condition when the muscle of the heart thickens. As a result, it reduces the volume of blood that the heart pumps in every contraction.Cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may appear with signs of congestive heart failure:- Rapid or laboured breathing
- Lethargy
- Open-mouthed breathing
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
PKD is an inherited disorder at birth which can be diagnosed as young as six months of age. Affected cats or kittens have small, liquid-filled sacs in the tissue of their kidney. When left untreated, these sacs may multiply and grow affecting the function of the kidney.
Cats with polycystic kidney disease may appear with signs of kidney disease:- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
- Nausea
- Increased drinking and urination
Keep up-to-date with vet care
A well-cared-for Ragdoll has an expected lifespan of 15 to 20 years. As they are predisposed to certain hereditary disease, early detection and intervention are the keys to address health issues effectively. Have your 12-month old kitten undergo necessary tests for breed-specific health issues to identify anomalies early on.
