As your Ragdoll kitten develops at what age should you stop feeding kitten food? Even though your Ragdoll still acts like a kitten he or she is quickly developing into an adult cat. It is important to provide food designed for your cat’s stage of development. The nutritional needs for adult cats are much different than those of kittens.
It is also very important to feed your Ragdoll cat a quality premium cat food. When it comes to balanced nutrition quality matters. Skimping on cat food could cause an upset stomach and lacks the balanced nutrition your cat needs. Balanced nutrition for an adult cat is important for muscle tone, a healthy coat, skin, bones, teeth, and bright clear eyes.
When your Ragdoll cat reaches 12 months of age you should begin transitioning him or her to an adult formula cat food. When you’re making this change it is important to keep an eye on their eating habits and body weight. For recommendations on how much you should be feeding your cat, talk to your veterinarian. Report any sudden changes in your cat’s weight to the vet immediately.
It is best to gradually transition your cat from one type of food to the next. The best way to do this is provide a mixture of the two food types over a four day timeframe. On the first day, start with 75% of the old food and 25% of the new. Increase the amount of new food by 25% each day and decrease the old food until you are feeding 100% of the new formula. This will minimize any stomach problems resulting from the food change.
Here are several steps you can take to reduce stressors for your Ragdoll cat.
1. Cats Like to have their space.
Personal space is just as important for your Ragdoll cat as it is for you. Don’t smother your cat.
2. Make time for your Ragdoll.
No matter how busy your life may be you need to spend time with all of your animals. Give them attention and actively play with them and their health will benefit.
3. Be consistent in your interactions with your Ragdoll.
Your pets pick up on your moods. Try and be positive and upbeat when dealing with your Ragdoll. Don’t take your moods out on your pets.
4. Never punish your Ragdoll cat.
No matter how angry you are for what your cat has done, never hit your Ragdoll. Cats don’t understand physical punishment. The only thing hitting your Ragdoll cat will accomplish is they will fear you and run whenever you come around. This can also cause other unwanted destructive behaviors like scratching and spraying your home.
5. Beware the bully.
If you have more than one pet in your home keep an eye on their interactions. This can be another cat or even a dog that can take it upon itself to terrorize your Ragdoll. This happens frequently when there is a new kitten in the house. Make sure and separate the bully from your Ragdoll until the problem is resolved.
6. Provide a quiet environment for your Ragdoll.
Cats don’t like loud noises. Things like traffic, blaring televisions, and stereos can stress your Ragdoll cat and damage their hearing. Make sure there is a quiet, secluded area of your home for your cat to retreat to.
7. Don’t use strong perfume or nail polish around your cat.
Cats have a very sensitive sense of smell. What smells good to you could be repulsive for your cat. The same goes for perfumed cat litter; avoid using at all costs.
8. Make sure your feeding your cat properly.
Poor nutrition or an improperly balanced diet can be harmful to your cat’s health. Make sure you are feeding your cat a quality, premium cat food and avoid feeding table scraps to your cat. Consult your veterinarian to make sure you are feeding your Ragdoll the proper food for his or her stage of life.
