When you adopt a ragdoll cat, whether a kitten or an adult, chances are they seem jitter, shy, or even feisty (in some cases) at first. It’s their natural response and behavior to a new environment. A safe space ahead, out of noise, crowds, and active pets, could work wonders and make your kitty feel prosperous.
To get on your docile raggies, you need a kitten-proof spare room (medium or big works!) with very low traffic topped off with toys, a litter box, food, water, a carrier, and a scratcher. In saying this, we’ve prepared a to-do list that you need to work on before bringing your feline friend home.
Related Read: Ragdoll Cat Care Guide For First Time Owners
Setting Up Safe Space For Your Ragdoll Cat – Pro Tips!
Kitten-Proof The Room
Ragdolls are very much laid-back tho with a curious nature, so it’s best to eliminate any potential hazards they can get to. Secure the room and toss out anything that can be eaten, chewed up, or pulled down. If you have any electrical cords lying around, hide them right away. Since ragdolls are intelligent, uniquely smart cats, make sure the safe room has a door so they can’t sneak out on their own and get into trouble.
Get Rid Of Poisonous Indoor Houseplants
Many first-time cat owners aren’t aware that indoor houseplants can be extremely toxic to cats. Lilies, sago palms, Pothos, aloe vera, and philodendrons are seriously dangerous to ragdoll cats (all parts of the plant are purely toxic). If your ragdoll kitten makes contact or swallows any parts of those plants you’d have to face devastating consequences like lethargy, vomiting, skin irritation, and excessive drooling. We already have a complete guide to the poisonous houseplants for ragdoll cats and their safe alternatives. It’s open for you to read.
Provide Cozy Hideaway
Cats inherently have an instinct to hide when they’re scared off or feeling clumsy. It comes out that having a cozy hideaway in the safe room will help them acclimatize to the new environment with ease. It could be mainly anything, as long as it is purely risk-free and looks safe to your new ragdoll. You can set up a cardboard box (cut a door hole), a cat condo, an igloo-style cave, high perches, or curtains that your Ragdoll can hide behind and survey their territory from. These cozy hiding spots let your cat explore on their own and get used to the new environment at their own pace.
Avoid Loud Noises & Distractions
Ragdolls are easygoing breed, love to go limp, and made their way to being people-oriented. Like most cats, though, they do need a safe space where they can retreat. Make their room clear of lots of banging, loud noises, smells, or other distractions since this could startle or stress your cat out.
If your Ragdoll just had a vet visit, is new to your family, or is feeling anxious, this quiet, protected space can be a lifesaver. It by all means gives them a chance to decompress and feel secure, without the added toll of household hustle and bustle.
Must-Have Essentials For Your Ragdoll Kitten’s Safe Room
Litter Box
Place spotless and readily accessible litter box in quiet corner of the safe room. If your kitty doesn’t feel like using it for peeing or pooping on their first night it’s absolutely okay. It’s just your ragdoll is getting used to the new room, environment, and around you. Ragdoll, like most cats, doesn’t like to eat near where they urinate or defecate so put the food and water bowl at a fair distance from the litter box.
Right Food & Water Bowl
When it comes to food, start with what your breeder has been feeding your Ragdoll lately. An immediate transition to new food could upset their tummy. Rather, gradually shift to your preferred brand over time. Put the water bowl near the food, though not too close to the litter box. Since ragdolls are a large breed (name dog-like mostly) and can grow to weigh between 10-20 lbs, they do need a large portion to satisfy their appetite. Pick food bowl that is adequately sized it turns out.
Safe Place To Sleep
Although a separate bed is okay, in the start when you bring your ragdoll kitty home, they might prefer a cozy blanket or a pillow over large bed. As a friendly breed, they adapt promptly to their new environment and around you most likely within 2 weeks. They may need a little extra love and care but don’t overdo the petting, as it could scare them out.
Toys & Scratching Posts
Ragdolls favor slow-paced living and enjoy snoozing habitually. To make safe space for your ragdoll cat, we suggest you splurge on quality toys, like feathers wand toys, and fetch toys though. The ragdoll breeds is so affectionate even a paper ball could work well. Aside from catnip toys, scratchers too make a great choice for your kitty’s safe room. No matter the age, cats need to scratch things and it’s healthy behavior. It files down their claws, relieves stress, and marks their territory. You don’t want your ragdoll cat to use furniture for scratching sake btw.
Cat Carrier
A cat carrier with a nice blanket inside is a must-have, even if it is tucked away in storage most of the time. Generally, Ragdolls don’t like to travel whether by car or airplane. If you get them into the habit early on, they’ll be less stressed when you need to take them out to the veterinarian you’ve picked for things like vaccination or during necessary road trips.
What Else Can You Do To Make Safe Space For Your Ragdoll Cat
Introduce New Family Members Slowly
We know you can’t wait to have your ragdoll cat or kitten home and introduce them to the rest of the family, pets, and your kids. However, you need to take it slowly and gradually. The last thing you want is your kitty to ward you off. Let them roam all over the room you’ve had prepared for them as a safe place. Allow them to explore on their own – this way, they get accustomed to their new surroundings without feeling overwhelmed.
As they become more comfortable, you can slowly expand their territory and introduce them to other pets and your kiddos. Though we largely advise against it initially. First, educate kids on how to handle Ragdoll cats properly. Teach them where to pick them up from and how to approach the kitten gently.
Be Patient
Ragdolls are known for their affectionate nature but don’t expect them to sock up all the attention right away. Have some patience and give them time to adjust. Avoid over-petting or forcing interactions. Let your new feline friends come to you when they’re ready and feel safe around you. For the time being, show them love through quiet playtime, sweet talk, and treats.
Keep Other Pets Out of The Safe Room
If you already have other pets (cats, dogs) in your home, keep them separated from your new ragdoll cat space for up to a week. Their unfamiliar scent might spook your Ragdoll. The time mainly depends on how things are going. Ragdolls get along well with other pets as long as introductions are done gradually and in a controlled manner. The starting separation period lets your new kitten specify their territory and gain confidence before meeting their new furry siblings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long should I keep my ragdoll-kitten in the safe room?
If your Ragdoll is the only cat in your home, you may only need to use the safe room for one or two days. In case you have other pets, it’s best to resist your urge and keep them safe and separated for up to a week. Watch out for signs that your kitten is adjusting well – if your Ragdoll starts to drink and eat well and turn on the charm, it’s probably time to let them conquer more of your home!
Can I let my ragdoll cat roam freely around the house?
It’s not recommended to let any cat including Ragdoll roam freely until they’re well trained and familiar with their new environment. Start by letting your new Ragdoll explore one room at a time under supervision. Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior and help them learn the layout of your home.
Should I keep the safe room permanently set up for my ragdoll cat?
Although it’s not necessary to maintain a permanent safe room, it’s a good idea to have a quiet space your Ragdoll can retreat to when they need some alone time. The gentle touch Ragdoll breed is known for its placid temperament that sometimes can get overstimulated. Having a familiar, calm area can help them feel secure and relaxed, especially during stressful times like when they get vet treatment, you have guests over, or during holidays.
Wrapping Up…
You can easily set up safe space for your ragdoll cat by following the above-mentioned simple tips and making a few necessary purchases. As for the rest, show them lots of love, gently talk to them, and be patient and tolerant as they adjust to your home. Give them enough time to explore and don’t rush the introductions with other pets or family members right away. With proper care and attention, your ragdoll cat will quickly reach out close to your heart, and the bond between you two will grow stronger with each passing day.
Written By: Usman Malik | Reviewed By: Ali Abbas | Fact Checked By: Aqib Zulfiqar
