Yes, Ragdoll cats are moderate to high-maintenance. They are social and thrive on attention and interaction with their owners. As such, they need more affection than other breeds of cats. They are more sensitive than some other breeds and are prone to stress, so providing a calm and stable environment is essential.
In terms of exercise and activity, Ragdolls are moderate in their needs. They are not as active as some other breeds, but they still need opportunities for play and training to keep them healthy and happy. Providing plenty of toys and activities and encouraging them to play with you can help meet their needs.
Why Ragdolls Are High Maintenance
High-maintenance Ragdoll cats typically have a lot of furs. This coat can be very costly to maintain, as Ragdoll cats require regular grooming. Grooming should occur at least twice a week but may need to be done more often if your cat is active or playful.
Additionally, these cats may hide their toys and food, refuse to get wet or cleanse themselves and act agitated when they’re not allowed to have their favorite toy or food.
Special Care for Ragdoll Cats
Provide a safe, comfortable place for your Ragdoll cat to call homes, such as an ample space they can access all the time or part of their indoor/outdoor territory. Make sure the area is clean and litter-free. Provide enough litter and fresh water daily, and keep the site clean.
Your Ragdoll cat will need enough litter to cover its fur and water to drink. Give your Ragdoll cat plenty of toys and playtime to keep them entertained. Toys can include scratching posts, high-value food items, etc.
Playtime is vital for mental and physical health, so regularly providing it will benefit your cat in multiple ways. Consult a veterinarian regularly about their health, feeding schedule, exercise needs, etc. In addition, a vet can help you maintain optimal health for your Ragdoll cat by checking their food and water intake, providing vaccinations when necessary, and prescribing essential treatments.
Considerations in Taking Care of Ragdoll Cats
Cost to Maintain
To start, Ragdoll cats require a diet that consists of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to their regular food, Ragdoll cats also need to be groomed regularly. This includes brushing their coat and removing any mats or tangles.
Ragdoll cats also sometimes require veterinary care for issues such as ear infections or feline leukemia. As mentioned, on average, Ragdoll cats cost owners $255 to $730 per year in vet bills, food, toys, and litter.
Regarding supplies and care for your Ragdoll cat, the amount of money you will need will vary depending on the cat’s breed, age, and weight. However, on average, you can expect to spend money on supplies like food, litter, toys, etc.
In addition, you must provide your Ragdoll cat with enough affection. You should often cuddle and play with them to ensure their happiness and well-being.
Shedding
Ragdoll cats shed. However, the shedding process usually happens once it starts to warm up. They also mainly shed due to the cat’s natural oils being eliminated. So if you provide your Ragdoll cat with plenty of toys and scratching posts to play on and give them proper grooming, they should suffer relatively few hairballs and lose less hair.
Health Risks
There are some health risks associated with owning a pet Ragdoll. Some leading health problems they can experience include allergies, dandruff, infection, kidney disease, and cancer.
However, the health concerns Ragdoll cats face largely depend on their coat. For example, if their skin is kept clean and free of tangles and mats, they will probably not suffer from some health problems.
But, if their coat becomes tangled and matted, Ragdoll cats may develop skin problems such as allergies, dandruff, or infection. In addition, Ragdoll cats may also develop obesity or joint issues.
Ragdoll cats require much care and attention and are prone to costly pet bills if not appropriately managed. Ragdoll cats also have specific feeding needs, watering, and exercising because they are prone to getting sick or injuring themselves.
Make sure to keep their living space clean, and watch for any signs of health problems like parasites or allergies.
Litter Type
If you have a Ragdoll cat, you should use clumping litters, as they are the best choice for this cat. Litters made specifically for Ragdolls typically contain high-clumping litter and are designed to trap waste and urine in one place, making cleanup a breeze.
Changing your cat’s litter box every two to three weeks or when the litter seems too dry or has clumps that don’t dissolve well is essential.
Food
The best food for a Ragdoll cat will depend on the individual needs and preferences of the cat. In general, it is essential to feed a high-quality, balanced diet that meets the cat’s nutritional needs. Here are a few things to consider when choosing food for a Ragdoll cat:
- Choose a diet that is appropriate for the cat’s life stage: Kittens, adult cats, and senior cats have different nutritional needs, so it is crucial to choose a diet that is appropriate for the cat’s age.
- Look for a diet high in protein: Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they require a diet high in animal-based protein. Choose a diet that lists a high-quality source of animal protein, such as chicken or fish, as the first ingredient.
- Avoid fillers and additives: Some commercial cat foods contain fillers and additives that may not be nutritionally beneficial for the cat. Look for a diet made with whole, natural ingredients and does not contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- Consider the cat’s individual needs: If the cat has any special dietary needs or sensitivities, such as food allergies or sensitivities, it is vital to choose a diet that is appropriate for its needs.
It is always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or a feline nutritionist when choosing a diet for your Ragdoll cat to ensure that they are getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy and happy.
Regular Vet Visits
Ragdoll cats, like all pets, should see a veterinarian regularly to ensure that they are healthy and to address any potential health issues. The frequency of veterinarian visits will depend on the age and health of the cat, as well as any specific medical needs.
Here are some suggested guidelines for veterinarian visits for Ragdoll cats:
- Kittens: Kittens should see a veterinarian every 3-4 weeks for the first few months of life for vaccinations and to monitor their growth and development.
- Adults: Adult Ragdoll cats should see a veterinarian at least once a year for a check-up and vaccinations. Some veterinarians may recommend more frequent visits every six months for cats at higher risk for specific health problems, such as those that are overweight or have pre-existing medical conditions.
- Senior cats: Senior Ragdoll cats (typically considered to be over seven years old) may need more frequent veterinarian visits every 6-12 months to monitor their health and address any age-related health issues.
It is essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best schedule for veterinarian visits for your Ragdoll cat. In addition, it is essential to bring your cat to the veterinarian immediately if you notice any changes in its behavior or appearance or if it shows signs of illness.
How to Make a Ragdoll Cat Less Demanding
You can make your cat less demanding by providing plenty of toys, bowls full of different foods, scratching posts, and beds with lots of softness. Try new activities or environmental changes if your cat is restless or stressed. Taking care of a Ragdoll cat’s high-energy needs is essential.
