If you love Ragdolls you have come to the right place!
Cats and Kids
Cats and kids can have a good lasting relationship, if managed correctly. Cats tend to be naturally cautious and wary of loud noises and fast movement considering it a threat. These tend to be characteristics of children. As long as you bear this in mind, there is no reason why children and cats cannot get along with careful supervision, sensitivity and education.
It is important to set up escape routes for the cat when meeting children and have a slow introduction process supervised by an adult. Children need to be taught how to behave and how to interact with cats so as not to cause distress or harm.
Cats will give off subtle signs if they are getting stressed and anxious in any interactions – from flicking or swishing their tail, their ears becoming flattered or their pupils getting larger. Watch out for these and end the interaction if you see them. Also, educate children about these signs so they are aware how their behavior can affect the cat’s well-being.
If you have small kittens consider they can get hurt easily in playful activities and this is especially true with very young children who may not even realize they are playing roughly or holding on too tight.
In the same regard, an older cat could end up hurting your child if they are not educated on appropriate behaviours.
Encourage supervised play with an interactive toy that allows distance between the cat and child is the best option to start with.
Before you allow the child and cat to meet it is best to have a plan. Both the kids and the cat will be excited, so it is important to set some ground rules and boundaries.
Ask yourself the following questions:
–Are you adopting a kitten or a full-grown cat who may not be experienced interacting with children?
–How old are your children?
–How will you control interactions with younger kids until they understand how to play carefully?
–Are your cats indoor only?
–Do your kids know to be careful when opening doors?
–What will be the safe space for your cat?
Remember:
-Supervise their meeting carefully.
-Do not introduce your cat to too many children at once.
-Give them boundaries
-Make sure the children know the rules about handling the cat
-Educate them
-Supervised play
Ragdoll Cats and Kids
Ragdoll cats are very gentle and sweet, making them a great choice if you have kids in the house or want to start a family. Their relaxed laid-back nature makes them more suited to be around children and they make wonderful childhood companions.
These long-haired gentle giants make great family pets because they’re affectionate and outgoing. Ragdolls do not normally display any aggressive tendencies and they love being stroked and played with.
Ragdoll cats are very friendly. They are the most sociable breed with a natural desire for attention and company. They love to be with you. Once you have this cat breed, we will always find them around and they will constantly follow you. This breed is considered the best for children. The reason is that they will enjoy playing with your children and your children will not feel lonely with a Ragdoll cat around. Even if your child is busy doing something, the Ragdoll will silently observe them without causing any disturbance.
Remember though, just because the Ragdoll breed is more relaxed than other breeds, they will not tolerate abuse and unnecessary rough handling. Follow the same advice as detailed above about setting up the first meeting and supervising play and interactions.
