Ragdoll kittens are some of the cutest, cuddliest little cats you will ever come across.
If you’ve landed on this article, it’s likely you’re considering adding one to your family but are unsure exactly what ragdoll kittens are like to own.
Well, let me put your mind at ease.
Ragdoll kittens are bundles of fun. They are well-natured, playful and cuddly. They are somewhat high maintenance – no more so that other breeds of kittens, however – and are vocal, especially when adjusting to their new environment.
One of the ragdoll kittens’ cutest traits are their big paws, which they eventually grow into but are certainly disproportionate to their bodies when they’re young.
My wife and I referred to them as ‘thumpers’ when our ragdoll, Poppie, was only a few months old because of their size.
The other adorable features that make ragdoll kittens so appealing to would-be owners are their cute button noses, bright blue eyes and white fluffy coats, which are all trademark features of the ragdoll breed.
And if you’re worried about allergies, don’t be – while ragdolls aren’t hypoallergenic, as a mild allergy sufferer I can confidently say ragdoll kittens (and adults) are generally fine to live with, in my experience.
If you’re considering buying a ragdoll kitten – or maybe even two, considering they love being in pairs – this article has everything you need to know.
Are ragdoll kittens playful?
Yes, ragdoll kittens are extremely playful. While adult ragdolls are known for their laid-back, easy-going and affectionate personalities, as kittens they are far more energetic and inquisitive. When they are young, ragdolls especially enjoy exploring, playing, learning and interacting with people.
I still remember when we brought our ragdoll, Poppie, home when she was only 12 weeks old.
She was initially very uncertain about being in a new environment and didn’t come out of her cat carry cage for hours.
But once she emerged from her safe space, it wasn’t long until she starting playing with toys, following us around the house, purring and talking to us.
As ragdoll kittens are often considered ‘puppy like’, they’ll do things like play fetch, chase laser pointers across the floor and even hide and seek.
Overall, they have an innate curiosity which makes them great companions and a blast to live with.
Are ragdoll kittens high maintenance?
Ragdoll kittens, like all kittens, require a lot of care and attention. They need to be fed, groomed, and trained, and they will also require regular visits to the veterinarian for vaccinations and check-ups.
Because they are still growing and developing, ragdoll kittens can be quite mischievous – this includes scratching furniture or clothing if you let them out of your sight for too long.
The best way to avoid this kind of destructive behaviour is by starting training as early as possible.
This could be a mix of positive reinforcement (giving them treats for good behaviour), coupled with disciplinary reinforcement (lightly spraying them with water if they misbehave).
It’s also good to toilet train them as early as possible. Whenever your kitten starts to wee or poo, place them in a litter tray to finish their business – this will encourage them to use it in future.
In general though, ragdoll kittens are quick learners and it won’t be long before they figure out what they can and can’t do, even without much training.
You also must remember to brush them as they grow (and their hair becomes longer) and ensure you don’t miss any scheduled vet appointments to administer required vaccinations for their long-term health.
Are ragdoll kittens hyper?
Ragdoll kittens are generally not considered a ‘hyper’ breed of cats. They tend to be more relaxed and laid back, making them an ideal companion for people who want a calm and loving pet. While ragdoll kittens are active, they will mellow as they get older.
The definition of hyper is ‘unusually energetic’, which isn’t how I would describe ragdoll kittens.
While they will have spurts of playfulness and activeness, they will spend an equal – if not more – time sleeping and resting.
So, no, I wouldn’t consider ragdoll kittens to be particularly ‘hyper’.
Do ragdoll kittens like to cuddle?
Absolutely they do! Ragdoll kittens are some of the most affectionate cats in the world. They love to cuddle and be around their human family members. If you’re looking for kittens that love to snuggle, ragdolls are a fantastic choice.
Ragdolls are often called ‘floppy cats’ due to the way they go limp in your arms when you hold them.
While this is a behaviour trait that tends to develop when they reach adulthood, it certainly doesn’t mean ragdoll kittens don’t like to cuddle – because they absolutely do.
They may initially be a little more restless than adults, but once they get comfortable, ragdoll kittens will happily curl up next to you on the couch or in bed.
Once that happens, it won’t take long before they start purring away, too.
So if you want a kitten that is keen on cuddles, ragdolls are perfect.
Are ragdoll kittens healthy?
Yes, ragdoll kittens are generally healthy cats, with few health problems. Usually, your breeder won’t let you take your ragdoll home until they are 12 weeks old, have had their first round of vaccinations and have been weaned off their mother’s milk.
Baby ragdolls are tiny and vulnerable in their early life, so to keep them healthy you should focus on the following things:
Giving them a good diet
Once they’re able to eat solids, a good mix of wet and dry food is essential for keeping your ragdoll kitten happy and healthy.
Whole-meat-based canned food provides the fats and proteins your ragdoll needs to stay strong, while dry food gives them the carbohydrates required for energy.
It’s also a good idea to throw in some dental biscuits one or twice a week, which will help fight off plaque and decay.
Keeping them warm
Ragdoll kittens are used to cuddling up next to their mother and siblings in the first weeks of their life.
So, when you take them home, you need to make sure you replicate this warmth sufficiently using rugs or blankets – especially during the colder months.
You could even run a gas or electric heater for a few hours before putting your kitten to bed, for some extra heat.
Regular health check-ups
Booking in regular check-ups with your local veterinarian is essential for making sure your kitten stays healthy as it progresses into adulthood.
Once you’ve found a good vet, it’s important to stay with them – over time, they’ll build up a good history of your ragdoll’s health, such as their usual weight, which they can refer to should they become unwell.
If you can develop a trusting relationship with your vet, the more comforted you will be.
Final message
In summary, ragdoll kittens are a wonderful breed of cats and a bundle of fun to have in your home.
They are certainly more active than what they will eventually be in adulthood, highlighted by their curious and playful youthfulness.
If you want kittens that are cute, cuddly and great companions, I highly recommend getting ragdolls.
