How to Care for Ragdoll Cats

Knowing how to care for your Ragdoll cat ensures they grow up as healthy, happy, and well-adjusted as possible. To help, we've made a detailed guide to caring for your new Ragdoll - broken up into the main stages of their life: 

 At this stage, Ragdoll kittens are heavily dependent on their mother and us as the breeder for care. 

Feeding:

• Weeks 0-4: Kittens will nurse from their mother. In cases where the kitten has touble latching, we will feed  the kitten using special syringes and synthetic nipples. Kittens require feeding every 2-3 hours so this is an exhausting process but we are dedicated to giving each kitten the best chance for a strong start of life.  
• Weeks 4-8: We gradually introduce wet kitten food.  We make our kitten food from scratch, using organic chicken and meats to provide high quality source of nutrition.  We also provide our kittens with a blend of vitamins and minerals to support their growth and immune system.  
• Weeks 8-12: Full transition over to our high-quality wet food as well as introduction to dry kitten food formulated for growth.

Vaccinations and Vet Visits:

• We schedule vet check-ups at 8 and 12 weeks for a full health assessment.  Core vaccines FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia) are given during these visits. 
• Deworming treatments typically start at 2 weeks and continue every 2-3 weeks until 12 weeks.

Grooming and Care:

• Minimal brushing is needed as their coats are still developing, but gentle handling by our family helps them adjust to future grooming.
• We start introducing nail trimming as part of their routine.

Feeding:

• Continue to feed a high-quality kitten food rich in protein and essential nutrients (Suggested brands are provided in the products section below).
• Offer three meals daily to match their energy needs. Dry food can be offered as often as they want it as long as they are not overweight. 

Vaccinations and Vet Visits:

• Complete the 3rd FVRCP vaccine series at 16 weeks.
• Schedule another vet visit around 6 months for a wellness check.

Grooming and Care:

• Brush their coat 1-2 times per week to prevent tangles and remove loose fur especially if they have longer hair.
• Trim nails every 3-4 weeks and check ears for signs of wax buildup or infection.

Socialization:

• Remeber that Ragdoll kittens are extremely social, so make sure to spend time interacting with your kitten to encourage playfulness, trust, and happiness.
• Introduce them to a variety of toys, scratching posts, and environments to keep them mentally stimulated.

Feeding:

• Continue with kitten food but monitor weight to avoid overfeeding.
• Transition to two meals per day by 9-12 months.

Vaccinations and Vet Visits:

• Your cat may need a booster for the FVRCP at 1 year.
• Spay or neuter your kitten by 6 months.  Not doing this can result in serious health and behavoir issues, including marking territory and spraying.  

Grooming and Care:

• Increase brushing to 2-3 times per week as their coat thickens.
• Continue regular nail trimming and teeth brushing.

Activity and Enrichment:

• Provide plenty of playtime to channel their energy. Puzzle toys and interactive games are excellent. 
• Give them lots of pets and cuddles - this is what they are made for! 

Feeding:

• Transition to high-quality adult cat food. Adjust portions to maintain a healthy weight.
• Offer fresh water at all times and avoid overfeeding treats.

Vaccinations and Vet Visits:

• Annual vet check-ups are essential for vaccinations, dental exams, and overall health.
• Discuss flea, tick, and heartworm prevention with your vet.

Grooming and Care:

• Brush their coat 2-3 times per week to prevent mats and reduce shedding.
• Clean their ears and trim nails as needed.

Lifestyle and Maintenance:

• Ragdolls are indoor cats; provide a safe, enriching environment with scratching posts, perches, and toys.
• Monitor for signs of health issues such as changes in appetite, behavior, or coat quality.