Sunday, July 3, 2011

All About Caring For Ragdoll Kittens

By Jeanette Parsons


Animal lovers throughout the world seem to share a common love and interest in their faithful pets, and the smitten owners of Ragdoll kittens are certainly no different. Well-known for their passive and friendly temperament, these cats make wonderful family pets. Raising them properly takes careful consideration and a good understanding of what their needs are as a special, sought-after breed.

The history of how this breed was created, is shrouded in rumor. Ann Baker, its founder started the breed with Josephine, a non-pedigreed, longhaired cat, in the 1960s. Ann soon discovered that the litters this cat was producing were unusually gentle and almost limp. This discovery was the source of many different speculations.

Speculations at the time claimed that the gentle nature of the kittens was a direct result of the car accident Josephine had experienced while she was pregnant. Another rumor claimed that she was the product of a covert government experiment, which caused her to become docile and immune to pain. These rumors, now known to be vastly untrue, were the basis of this breed's history during its formative years.

These cats have pointed colorations, similar to those seen on Siamese cats. Their colors range from seal to lighter shades of lilac and blue. However, they are born with white fur and these colorings develop only as they mature. Their name originated from the fact they when picked up, they become somewhat limp and floppy, like ragdolls.

Due to their affectionate nature and little awareness of real danger, they often become the victims of accidents with cars or dangerous encounters with dogs. They therefore require close supervision and should only go outside in areas which are walled off and where owners can watch them safely. Most are trained as indoor cats.

Ragdolls should be fed a blend of both wet and dry cat food, that is of a premium nature and scientifically produced to benefit the health of the cat. Raw or cooked, human grade meat like fish or chicken is also recommended. With occasional treats like crushed boiled egg or grated cheese as meal toppings.

To maintain the health of Ragdoll kittens, they should be treated for fleas and worms regularly, with the advice of a qualified professional and by making use of veterinary approved products only. They should also be combed or brushed regularly - as they have semi-longhaired coats, once a week should suffice but these cats would love to be groomed more often. Some pet stores sell grooming mitts which fit over the hand and have bristles or massage surfaces on one side, for this purpose. Read more about: ragdoll kittens




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