Kitten health

Your kitten has had two complete vet visits with nose to tail exam and vaccinations before transitioning to your home. Your kitten has also been dewormed regularly while at our cattery. Take your kitten's vaccination record with you when you see your veterinarian so they know what is needed next. 

*Ragdolls are sensitive to the Rabies vaccine; we recommend that when the Rabies vaccine is given it is the only vaccine given that day.

* Some intermittent sneezing is normal. Cats in general, and Ragdolls especially, are sensitive to smells. Things that may trigger sneezing in your cat are smoke, strong cooking spices, essential oils, scented candles, air fresheners, excessive perfume/cologne. A succession of quick sneezes is a good indicator that something in the air is bothering your kitten.

*Watery eyes are sometimes normal. If the corners of your kitten's eyes get messy, clean them with saline or warm water and a clean cloth. Swollen eyes, redness to the lids or eyes, and thick discharge is NOT normal.

*Clear nasal discharge is a normal reaction to a new environment. Nasal discharge that is thick mucus is NOT normal.

*Coughing is NOT normal; please see your vet quickly if your cat is coughing excessively.

*Sudden change in litter box etiquette can indicate an illness. Cats are very good at hiding pain and sickness, but this is often the first sign to surface when a cat becomes ill.

*Some plants can be VERY TOXIC to your kitten/cat. Lilies, even the pollen from lilies, can cause your kitten to become very ill and die. Some other common toxic plants are: Sago palms, Azaleas and Rhododendrons, Dieffenbachia, Cannabis, Mistletoe, Holly, Amaryllis, Daffodils, Tulips, and Paperwhites. Please check your plants to ensure they are safe for your new baby.

*Your kitten has been carefully protected while at our cattery, by strict and frequent cleaning and disinfecting. Once kittens leave us, we know that they will be exposed to new things and those things will gradually help your kitten build their immune system; however, too much too fast can be troublesome. Other pets, shoes, and visitors bring new organisms into your home. We recommend that you ask guests to remove their shoes and wash their hands before holding your baby. As your kitten matures, their immune system will strengthen, but for now they are still a baby. Do your best to minimize exposure during the first weeks and months in their new home.

*Groom your kitten at least a couple of times a week. Their coats can become overwhelming for them, and to avoid hairballs and matts, groom your kitten regularly. They love to be combed and brushed; they have been exposed to grooming regularly already. Let them see what you are doing and let them smell the comb or brush.

*Your kitten was bathed just prior to going home. Cats are very good at cleaning themselves; opinions on bathing cats differ- you do what is right for you and your cat!

*Your kitten has had their nails trimmed frequently while at our cattery. The more you do this in the beginning, the easier it will be. Declawing is controversial, painful, and not necessary. We are 100% against declawing. Your kitten has been using a scratching post and you should provide them with one in your home. Trimming your kitten's nails is easy, just use a gentle voice and calm demeanor and this shouldn't be a stressful part of grooming. Offering treats during grooming is great!