Ragdoll Cat behaviour problems are really far and few between. With a ragdoll you can expect them to be an amazing addition to the family. However there are a few things that you should watch out for, and a couple of parenting tips we would like to recommend.
The main ragdoll cat behaviour problems that you should watch out for are, they will walk under your feet, they will shed in clumps not individual hairs, they will get hairballs and mats, they won’t protect themselves, they can be needy in the mornings when trying to sleep in, they will get into things and they can track things through the house.
Do any of these sound familiar?
Also Read – Seal Point Ragdoll Cats
Ragdoll Cat Behaviour Problems and Solutions
Like any cat, ragdolls can still have some behaviour issues, and need to be properly parented. I will say that they are generally VERY good at learning what they need to know, and being a welcome addition to any family. But like any pet they need to be trained what they can and cannot do.
Ragdoll cats are known for their docile nature, their affectionate personality and their incredible intelligence. Don’t let their floppy disposition fool you, these are extremely smart cats, and they will learn things very quickly.
Problem Number One – My Ragdoll Walks Under My Feet
Yes I know, mine do it too…especially when I am going up the stairs and they are wanting to come with me. It can seem like an endearing trait to have them follow you around the house, but it can also be dangerous especially if you are carrying something, or just don’t see them.
There are a couple or solutions.
- If you are carrying something make sure you know where your cat is. I have trained myself to be aware when I am on the stair case to look for the cat
- Let them go first. One of the things we do it to stop at the bottom of the stairs as the cat arrives and let her go first. She usually then runs up the stairs and we can go upstairs without stepping on her.
- Spray bottle. So you are going to see this a few times in this article but one of the best ways to train a cat is with a spray bottle. You can give them a quick spurt and a NO to let them know what they are doing is not ok. Usually after a few times they will associate the reprimand with the behaviour.
Problem Number Two – They Shed In Clumps
This isn’t as much behavioural as it is something about the breed. You will start to notice that Ragdoll cats don’t shed. Well at least not like the traditional way animals shed, one hair at a time on the floor. All over the floor. Ragdoll Cats shed in clumps, which makes them easy to spot, but it can also be frustrating. Here are a couple of ways to fix it.
- Dyson. I wouldn’t be able to function with my dog and cats with out one. Grab one on Amazon – Click here
- Brush the cats regularly. We have an article all about ragdoll cats, grooming and brushes.
- Feel For Mats. One of the things we do often is not just brush the cat but also feel for mats. These cats will mat and you can usually catch them early and brush them out or cut them off. If it gets too serious you can shave a ragdoll. I have done it and it works out ok.
- Keep Doors Closed. My wife doesn’t really like cats in the master bedroom. Mostly because of their puking on the rug, but also because of the hair. Sometimes they go in there because they like to stay warm on the duvet, so we had to solve that issue.
Problem Number Three – HairBalls and Mats
So we went over this a little in number two but we definitely want to circle back around and make sure you are aware that one of ragdoll cats behaviour problems is that they will mat and vomit hairballs.
When the cats are younger they will clean themselves more regularly and make sure that everything is ok. You will still need to brush them, as this acts as bonding time, but also helps keep shedding and hairballs to a minimum.
As the Ragdoll gets a little older they will not be as diligent with the self-cleaning and you will have to step in more often.
Problem Number Four – They Do Not Protect Themselves
So one of the most important things about ragdolls is that they don’t protect themselves, and as such shouldn’t go outside. If they run into aggressive cats or dogs they will likely just lie down and get hurt. Sometimes they will run away, but often they will not.
It is important to know this if you are bringing a ragdoll into a multi pet family. most of the time people have a great experience adding a ragdoll to the mix. Usually, it is because of their disposition that they get along so great with other animals. However, as a pet owner, this behaviour trait is something to watch and make sure your pets are treating each other safely. Especially when you are not home.
Let’s look at some solutions.
- Harness and Leash. I have a harness and a leash that I use for my Ragdoll and I let her outside during the summer. She likes to be with us on the deck. This is a great way to keep them safe and avoid them from running off.
- Keep Pets Separate. If you find that your pets are not getting along, you may need to separate them while you are not home. This can be accomplished by closing doors.
Problem Number Five – They Can Be Needy in the Morning
This may or may not present itself as a problem depending on the person. For us, it stems from having to get up early to work on the weekdays and then trying to sleep in on weekends. The cat doesn’t get to sleep on the bed. So because of that in the morning if she is up early she wants food and attention. So this creates a little bit of a problem for us trying to sleep in.
Solutions.
- Change the feeding routine to the nighttime so the cat isn’t expecting food in the morning
- Keep the doors closed, they will eventually learn
Problem Number six – They will get into things and track things Around the House
Ragdolls are usually not problem cats when it comes to plants. They don’t dig in plants, but you will still need to be careful with the kind of plants you have and the places you put them. Having said that they are very curious and they will explore and investigate everything in the house. Sometimes this means they will track stuff through the house if they get into dirt or something that will attach to their fur.
The fur in general can sometimes cause a problem because random things will attach to it and travel throughout the house.
Here are some general solutions.
- You can trim the undercarriage of the cat to make less of a tracking system.
- Make sure your plants are appropriate for cats (No Lilies) and that the dirt is away from them
- Don’t leave things out that you don’t want them to get into.
Ragdoll Cat Behaviour FAQ
Do Ragdoll Cats Get Along with Dogs?
Because Ragdolls are so docile and friendly the typical answer is yes, Ragdoll Cats get along with dogs. However, it is always best to introduce new members of the family slowly and with supervision.
Ragdoll Cats are Awesome but can Have some Behaviour Issues.
Hopefully, this article is helpful. Let us know in the comments below if you have any suggestions on things that have worked for you and if you need help with any of the issues you are facing. Ragdolls are pretty good about using the litter box, but if yours is not check this article out to see if it helps.
Enjoy your cat!