How to Care for Ragdoll Cats

Developed by Ann Baker in the 1960s, the Ragdoll cat is an easygoing and friendly breed. According to Isabelle Bellavance and Mindy Ferreira of the Cat Fanciers' Association, Ragdoll cats are so affectionate that they will often "run to greet you at the door, follow you from room to room, flop on you, sleep with you, and generally choose to be where you are." Ragdolls can grow to weigh as much as 30 pounds, but most stay in the 10- to 20-pound range. Their general care is similar to other cats in some ways, but their large size, thick coat and affectionate temperament require special note.

Things You'll Need

  • High-quality cat food
  • Steel comb
  • Toys
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Instructions

    • 1

      Feed your Ragdoll cat a high-quality dry cat food such as Science Diet or Wysong. Wet food is not necessary for a well-balanced diet but can be a nice addition if you choose a healthy brand. Leave a bowl of food available at all times for your cat unless he tends to overeat. Always have clean water available.

    • 2

      Groom your Ragdoll cat twice a week with a steel comb to prevent mats in her thick fur and to remove loose fur. Bathing is generally unnecessary unless your cat has gotten particularly dirty.

    • 3

      Clean the litter box at least once a day and replace all litter once a week. Place your litter box in a secluded but accessible spot. Veterinarian Dena M. Gallupo of the Ragdoll Connection Network recommends purchasing a large litter box since Ragdoll cats can grow to be quite large.

    • 4

      Take your Ragdoll to the veterinarian for routine checkups as well as vaccinations. Your veterinarian can advise you on appropriate flea treatments as well as a heartworm preventative schedule.

    • 5

      Spend plenty of time cuddling and playing with your Ragdoll cat. They are so people-oriented that they need a lot of attention in order to thrive. Ragdolls enjoy a fun game of fetch as well as other ground-oriented toys such as jingly balls and catnip mice.

    • 6

      Keep your Ragdoll cat indoors. Their laid-back disposition makes them excellent family pets, but it does not prepare them for the harsh realities of the outdoors.