Ragdoll Cat Health: Is Your Ragdoll Cat Healthy?
Aug 22nd, 2006 by Rob
Healthy cats have bright eyes, a shiny coat, a healthy appetite, maintain a good weight, and are playful. Cats are also very good at hiding when they are sick. It is up to you to know when your Ragdoll cat is not feeling well. There are a number of warning signs you need to be on the lookout for. These behaviors are clues that tell you when your Ragdoll cat is sick. If you think your Ragdoll is ill contact your veterinarian immediately.
Watch for Lack of Appetite
If your cat stops eating suddenly this is a probable sign that your Ragdoll is sick. Keep an eye on your cat’s food; if you feed dry food throughout the day it can be difficult to gauge how much your cat is eating. It is a good idea to feed your cat canned food at night in addition to the dry food available throughout the day.
Sudden Weight Loss
If you observe sudden weight loss in your Ragdoll cat, contact your veterinarian immediately. If your Ragdoll cat seems bonier or you can feel the ribs where you could not before, this is a sign of weight loss.
Periods of Inactivity, Weak or Lethargic Behavior, Excessive Sleeping
Cats are less active when they aren’t feeling well. If your cat is suddenly less active, is not interested in playing, and seems lethargic, consult your veterinarian.
Excessive Drinking
If your Ragdoll cat suddenly starts drinking excessive amounts of water this could indicate a kidney problem or feline diabetes. If you observe this behavior, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Bad Breath
If your Ragdoll cat suddenly develops foul breath, this could indicate dental or even metabolic problems.
Litter Box Problems
Going outside the box is often a sign that something is wrong. This could be a behavioral problem; however, it is best to have your veterinarian rule out a medical condition first when addressing the cause of litter box problems.
Drooling or Vomiting
Excessive drooling could be an indication of dental problems. Vomiting or gagging more frequently than the occasional hairball could indicate a problem. If your cat vomits frequently enough to lose weight this is a reason to see your veterinarian.
Hi, we have had our ragdoll for 2 months. He seems not able to make sure all his poopies are wipe off. We are have to always check his bottom to make sure their isn’t any poopy on his coat. We have done some cutting hair & clipping the area. Is this common problem?
Comment from: Valerie Morris [Visitor]
Hi, we have had our ragdoll for 2 months. He seems not able to make sure all his poopies are wipe off. We are have to always check his bottom to make sure their isn’t any poopy on his coat. We have done some cutting hair & clipping the area. Is this common problem?
Hi,
my ragdoll always has what i call eye bugers. I have only had her 2 weeks the breeder i bought her from says it is normal. she is almost 4 years old. any info would be great!
Thanks,
Gina & Pheobe
My ragdoll is 10 yrs old, she was just at the vet and shows some weight loss, she weighs 8.8pds. Id like to talk to some cat owners of the older Ragdoll population. She had full blood workup,results tommorrow and her heart sounds good:) Is this about the age they start to get OLD:( ? I’m sad.
Best regards, Mary