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Are Ragdolls Hypoallergenic?
There have been lots of claims regarding hypoallergenic cat breeds... specifically the Ragdoll.
Allergies to cats generally stems from a protein in their saliva and other secretions called Fel d1. Therefore, the hairless cats aren’t less allergenic at all. Several groups are in the process of genetically engineering this protein out of cats to see if they can prove the allergens. Also, a study in 2001 showed that lighter colored cats were less allergenic than darker cats so, it is definitely possible that certain breeds of cats inherently have less of the Fel d1 and be better for people with allergies. Recent studies also show that exposure to dogs and cats in infancy reduces the prevalence of allergic reactions later in life. Therefore, there is no such cat at this time that is 100% hypoallergenic . If you have allergies and still want a cat then you should either visit a cattery to see how you react or wait for the expensive genetically modified cats to see how you do with those. Either way, precautionary steps such as keeping the cat out of the bedroom as well as regular baths and grooming will definitely help. We have sold cats to people with allergies and they have done just fine. So, if you truly want a Ragdoll cat, do not give up hope until you try it. Do Ragdolls Shed?
Every animal with fur sheds, but Ragdolls are single coated with long guard hairs which cuts down significantly on their shedding. Their soft, silky bunny-type fur is less prone to matting and is extremely easy to take care of.
Do All Ragdolls Go Limp When Picked Up? This was a myth created by Ann Baker, the originator of the Ragdoll. I guess the best way to describe them, is that most of them are very relaxed which makes them seem limp when you pick them up. Ragdolls are in fact a very laid back, docile cat and are probably the sweetest breed of cat there is but they are still cats and each cat is an individual. All Ragdolls are friendly and have wonderful soft coats but the rest depends on what you teach them to do. If you want your kitten to be a lap cat you need to show it that your lap is a great place to be. If you want your Ragdoll to get used to being carried around then praise your Ragdoll when it is calm and quiet after being held. They are very smart cats and are eager to please so teach your Ragdoll what you'd like them to do and they will respond positively to the love and attention.
Are Girls Better Than Boys?
Whatever the temperment of the breed, the boys will be the extreme so because the Ragdoll cat is the sweetest breed there is, Ragdoll boys are the sweetest. In all breeds of cats boys tend to be larger and more laid back as adults whereas girls tend to be a bit smaller and more discriminating in their choices. It is my opinion that Ragdoll boys make the better pets but, of course, both sexes are great!
Why Should I Buy a Purebred Cat Rather Than Rescuing One From A Shelter?
Purebred cats have been selected for generations to be loving and friendly towards humans and other pets. In the 1950's a geneticist named Dmitry Belyaev started an experiment where he selectively bred only the calmest and tamest fur foxes to see if he could eventually make these notoriously wild creatures as tame as dogs. By the 1990's, 80% of these formerly aggressive and fearful creatures became devoted, affectionate and capable of forming strong bonds with people. This is proof that breeders can absolutely produce a superior pet with careful, selective breeding.
Another good reason is that when you buy a purebred cat you will get a health guarantee. They will be checked for all common health problems within the breed and you have a much better chance of getting a healthy, long-lived pet. Of course, as with all things in Mother Nature, there is no 100% guarantee that hereditary problems might not pop up, but the chances are much lower if you purchase a kitten from a reputable breeder. Last but not least, early socialization has an extreme impact on the rest of the cats life so by purchasing a kitten that has been properly raised with children and lots of TLC will ensure that it will be off to a winning start. When you do visit a cattery here are some things you should keep in mind:
1. Most catteries do not approve of visiting more than one cattery per day. If there happened to be any “health problems” with a cattery that you just visited you could take that “health problem” into another cattery, putting those kings, queens and kittens at risk. 2. Catteries may be unwilling to show you young kittens. The reason is that younger kittens may not have had their shots yet and to expose them is considered a health risk. 3. You should definitely have an appointment when visiting a cattery. If you show up at a cattery unannounced you may be turned away. 4. The handling of any cats or kittens in a cattery may or may not be allowed. Respect the breeder’s decision as they are only considering the cat’s health. 5. A tour of the cattery may or may not be allowed. Again, this is usually a health driven decision a breeder makes. When you reduce the exposure of the cattery cats and kittens you also reduce the possibility of a future health problem.
* Ask Questions * 1. Is the kitten litter trained? What type of litter are you using? 2. Is the kitten eating completely on his / her own? 3. What type of food is the kitten currently on? 4. Can you tell me about the temperament of the mother and father? 5. What is the temperament of the kitten like? Will it “fit in” with my home? 6. When should I bring the kitten to its next vet appointment? 7. Has the kitten had exposure to other cats, dogs, or pets in general to aid in socialization? 8. Was this kitten raised in a caged environment? 9. Do you have any children that my kitten was exposed to? 10. What vaccination schedule do you adhere too? 11. Will you be available to provide me with guidance/support if I need it? 12. Is there a health guarantee? Reprinted from Ragdoll Cats - Your Complete Pet Guide
* Ragdoll Cats Get Along Great With Dogs *
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WE RECOMMEND NUVET PLUS DAILY VITAMINS!
