The Ragdoll Cat breed is known worldwide for their laid-back, friendly disposition. But Ragdolls also have a somewhat independent, dependent attitude than many other cats do. Many Ragdoll cats like to be around people a lot and like being doted upon. However, you still need to train your Ragdoll well in order to get the best results from them.
Three Main Subspecies Of The Ragdoll Cat Breed
There are three main subspecies of the Ragdoll breed. One is the White Ragdoll, which was bred from an Asian Ragdoll kitten with a British Shorthair named Daddy warbucks. The second main subspecies is the Persian Ragdoll which was bred with an English Ragdoll and a Barbet. And lastly there is the Italian ragdoll, which was bred with an Italian Ragdoll, an English Ragdoll and a Burmese.
The Ragdoll cats have some health problems common to all breeds that breed from this line. These include hypothyroidism, obesity, hypoglycemia, and leukopenia. Although these problems are uncommon in ragdoll cats, one of every twelve Ragdoll cats will be diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. This condition is usually treated with medications and cannot be reversed. It is important that your Ragdoll undergoes regular checkups with the veterinarian to monitor for symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
One breed that is especially prone to developing hypoglycemia in cats is the Ragdoll breed. This is due to genetic influences. In fact, Ragdoll breeders have been found to pass the “Gestet” gene on to their litters. Because the “Gestet” gene increases the risk of developing hypoglycemia in Ragdoll cats, Ragdoll breeders are highly recommended to avoid using the gene through inbred breeding. Even if they do not use the “Gestet” gene, Ragdoll cats are still more likely to develop hypoglycemia than the non-Ragdoll cats.
Ragdoll Cats Are Only Slightly Overweight
When it comes to obesity, ragdoll cats are only slightly overweight, but their overall body mass index is still high. Weight loss is common in Ragdoll cats after they reach the age of seven months. At this age, the appetite for food declines significantly and does not increase until the age of two years. Because most Ragdoll cats are slow learners, it may take a few months before they are ready to begin eating regularly.
Some pet stores offer Ragdoll kittens for sale and even adults. However, if you are going to buy a ragdoll kitten from a pet store, make sure you check with your veterinarian to see if the kitten has any genetic diseases that could harm your new pet. The breeder should also be able to provide information about any type of training your new cat needs as well. Since ragdoll cats are extremely curious, they need regular, structured stimulation to help them develop a good habit of sleeping and potty-standing. A well-trained, obedient cat becomes a joy to have around.
When choosing a litter, look for one that is healthy. Be aware that sometimes pet stores will mix in some ragdoll cats with other breeds, creating a hybrid. This can be very problematic for the owners of hybrid breeds, since many breeders will not know any better! Always ask the breeder for proper documentation, and always insist on seeing the mother (if applicable) of any hybrid.
There Is Nothing Too Cuddly About These Felines
Once you’ve chosen your new feline, visit the breeder’s premises for a tour. You should be allowed to play with the kittens and watch how they are being reared. If you’re not comfortable with the idea of owning a ragdoll cat breed, keep in mind that the majority of them have been used for handling animals and primate displays. There’s nothing too cuddly about these felines!
Once you’ve visited the breeder’s premises, don’t hesitate to ask questions. If the cats aren’t handled frequently or are being raised in small cages, it may be difficult to judge their temperament. Some breeds have more independent personalities than others. Ask the breeder to describe the personality types of each of the cats in the litter, and consider getting information on each cat’s sire or parents.
One of the biggest questions you may have about any cat breed is whether there is a male or female version of the species. The answer is a strong “no.” Male cats do not display the aggression of the females. In fact, males will usually only cause disturbances when they feel threatened, such as when they sense that someone is stealing their baby doll. They also do not bear children, so they are not fathers.
Conclusion
There are a couple of things you can do if you are looking for a Ragdoll breed kitten. Some breeders offer baby seminars where, over the course of several days, he or she will show off kittens and puppies that are close to the Ragdoll coat. This will give you an idea of what sort of features to look for in potential Ragdoll kittens. If possible, try to visit the place where the seminar is being held, since this is where potential owners can meet the kittens. In addition to looking for information on possible coat colors, the attending breeder should be able to tell you if he or she has any references from previous Ragdoll kitten owners, so you can get an idea of the sort of kitty they have to take care of.
