If you’re considering adopting a Ragdoll, you’re probably intrigued by the beauty of this breed. They are an especially stunning breed of cat.
Many cat shoppers check out Pinterest and Instagram to admire the photos of the gorgeous long-haired cats and are completely taken by the Ragdoll breed.
Some folks have an ideal image in their mind of how their dream cat should look and act. They have ideal expectations of this beautiful breed of cat.
However, there are some things you should know about Ragdoll cats, that you may not already know.
What You Need to Know About Ragdoll Cats
1. Ragdolls Can Be Demanding
Most of them crave attention. Perhaps more than the average cat.
My Ragdolls crave my company and follow me around like dogs. If you are away at work every day for long days, they may not be such a good choice of cat for you.
I’ve heard of some people who have complained about their Raggie being overly demanding. This quality is part of the Ragdoll personality. Not each and every Ragdoll is demanding for attention and craves attention, but most are. It’s who they are.
Having two Ragdolls, rather than one, will definitely help, should you be short on attention time for your kitty. However, then remember, your costs will double as well!
If you don’t have time to pay attention to them and be affectionate, look to another breed that is less clingy.
Related> Ragdoll Cat Characteristics – 10 Reasons I Fell in Love with the Ragdoll Breed
2. The Cost of a Ragdoll Cat – They DON’T Come Cheap
A well bred pure bred Raggie does not come cheap. Depending on the breeder, where in the world you are, prices will vary. But a well bred cat of this breed, does NOT come cheap.
The cost of the cat is just the tip of the iceberg. There’s food, toys, beds, climbers, scratching posts, vet bills, grooming tools, perhaps professional grooming, pet sitter from time to time and more.
Really, if you are going to do this right, there will be costs and plenty of them.
Don’t be guilty of paying for a cat, and then too cheap to do what’s best for your new Ragdoll.
Remember, you need to have the money and be willing to spend it on your Ragdoll.
Related > Want to Buy a Ragdoll? Know the True Cost of Owning a Cat
3. Ragdoll Personality and Appearance – No Guarantees They’ll Flop and Be Gentle
Yes, Ragdoll cats are much like dogs. Most are affectionate, playful, laid back and tons of fun. However, there are no guarantees they will mature into a cat that is a ‘text book’ Ragdoll.
I get very upset when I read of someone looking to rehome their Ragdoll kitten, because it doesn’t live up to their expectations, re: not affectionate or too skittish.
Many folks want a cat with the ideal appearance: large in size, big fluffy rough, gorgeous eyes, perfect silky coat and all. Same goes here. No guarantees. Buying from a quality, well researched breeder helps you beat the odds, but still no guarantee.
I just don’t like seeing cats given up from what was to be their forever home, and put up for adoption because they have failed to be the ultimate Ragdoll.
Don’t fall into this shameful trap. You must be willing to accept them as they are.
Related >Why Are They Called Ragdoll Cats?
4. Outdoors vs Indoors? Probably NOT Outdoors
I would not recommend a Ragdoll cat be an outdoor cat. They are a gorgeous cat and the odds of someone scooping up your baby, is pretty good.
They are also quite docile and not aggressive so they would do well if they got into trouble with another animal.
I know of a Ragdoll owner who had a farm and insisted that the cat be an outdoor cat. They had Lily for about a year. I always knew this cat was living on borrowed time.
Sure enough, one terrible night, a wolverine killed sweet Lily.
5. Ragdoll Cat Fur Can Stir Up Your Allergies
Be sure you can handle a Raggie in your household if you have allergies.
Or if you don’t know if you’re allergic, find out BEFORE adopting one. They are known for being one of the least allergenic long haired cats. But again, no guarantees.
Related >The Amazing Ragdoll Coat – Things You Need to Know
When NO Other Breed Will Do
The real test to know if you are ready to adopt a Ragdoll into your home forever, is when you know about Ragdoll cats, the good and the not so good, but no OTHER BREED will do.
You are smitten by the beauty of the Ragdoll, mesmerized by those adoring blue eyes and dream of being a Ragdoll owner.
- Be willing to overlook their imperfect markings.
- Be willing to accept those cat bites, scratches and pouty attitudes with grace.
- Know they are every bit as much work as any other cat and perhaps even more.
- Know you will look forward to sitting and spending time with them and playing with them as much as you are able.
- Know you can afford to give them the very best food and care they deserve.
- Know they may mess outside their litter boxes at times.
Be VERY SURE, no matter what, when you adopt them and bring them into your home, it will be their forever home.
Then and only then will you know you are ready for a Ragdoll Cat.
Cause you know it will all be worth it.
More Articles For You
- Ragdoll Cats and Children – Best Kid-Friendly Cat Breed
- 5 Things You Need to Know About Ragdoll Cat Size
- Ragdoll Cat Facts – 12 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Ragdolls
- How Long Do Ragdoll Cats Live?
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