Yes, Ragdoll cats are great with dogs, thanks to their laid-back, calm temperaments. This breed is really sweet and gentle, which is why they are considered a “lap breed” of cats.
They are very patient and tolerant, not only of dogs but children as well.
In this article, we will talk more about the introduction of a Ragdoll cat to a home where there is a dog or vice versa. So, if you are considering adding a Ragdoll to your family, read on to learn more.
Are Ragdoll cats good with dogs?
With their mild temperament and personality traits similar to those of a dog, Ragdoll cats are the ideal breed to bring into a home where there is already a resident pooch. In fact, these cats are frequently referred to as “puppy cats”. Despite being different species, Ragdolls and dogs have a lot in common, which can result in a beautiful canine-feline friendship.
Why do Ragdoll cats get along so well with dogs?
Some animal lovers are under the impression that cats and dogs are mortal enemies, but in reality, this is not true. Plenty of people will testify that they have both cats and dogs living harmoniously together in their homes. However, one breed of cat stands out from the rest when it comes to its affection for its canine siblings: the Ragdoll.
Ragdoll cats are sociable creatures who enjoy meeting new people. They typically prefer one human over all others, but there is plenty of love to go around for others, too. Everyone – including dogs, cats, children, and complete strangers – is welcomed by Ragdolls in their homes.
While Ragdolls are calm and laid-back, they can also be outgoing when the occasion suits them. Moreover, they are not particularly territorial, so if an uninformed canine crosses their boundaries, they will not become aggressive.
Ragdolls are often referred to as “puppy cats” because they exhibit behaviors similar to those of puppies. They are extremely playful and can even be taught tricks, such as fetching. Their loyalty to their family and friends is also quite similar to that of a dog.
Another reason these cats get along well with dogs is that they are strong enough to compete with them. Ragdolls have strong bodies and a large frame, which makes them ideal for rough play and rough handling – they can tussle with your energetic dog with no problem.
What are the benefits of having both a Ragdoll cat and a dog?
Having a pet is beneficial to one’s health: pet owners tend to be happier than non-pet owners, and they also live longer lives, according to research. There are multiple physical health benefits to be gained from having multiple pets because it encourages you to spend more time being active. Additionally, having multiple pets is beneficial to your mental health.
Your pets are always there and ready to love you, and they help reduce the risk of anxiety and depression.
When you have more than one pet, they can help to keep each other entertained and active. Pets not only encourage their owners to be more physically active; they also encourage each other to be active. Cats and dogs who get along enjoy playing, cuddling, and relaxing with one another, and are happy to share their toys.
Aside from physical activity, they also benefit from the mental stimulation provided by their peers. This is a significant benefit for pet owners who have demanding schedules.
If you have children, then multiple pets may be a great option for you. The responsibility that comes with owning multiple animals will be instilled in your children and they will gain an understanding of the various requirements of each type of pet. The best part is that animals provide children with companionship and unconditional love, which is invaluable.
What are the drawbacks of having both a Ragdoll cat and a dog?
One of the disadvantages of owning both a Ragdoll cat and a dog is that caring for multiple animals will take up a significant amount of your time and other resources.
Pets rely on you for a variety of things, so the greater the number of animals you own, the more time you will need to dedicate to them. Each animal requires its own time and attention. Remember that having multiple pets means there will be more mess to clean up.
Another disadvantage is the possibility of aggression between the two animals. Even cats and dogs who get along well can get into a fight every now and then.
Furthermore, the more pets you have, the more expensive it will be to provide for them. Having multiple pets definitely impacts one’s financial situation: you will spend more money on food, visits to the veterinarian, and purchasing pet accessories. Consider the financial implications of adopting multiple animals before taking the plunge.
How do I introduce the Ragdoll cat to my dog?
It is important to understand how to properly introduce your Ragdoll and your dog once you have decided that the pros of having both outweigh the cons. The introduction should be handled with caution; if not done correctly, it could permanently damage the relationship between your two pets.
The first step is to keep both animals under the same roof for the first few days, but separate from one another. The goal is for each to have a safe area while also being aware that there is another animal in the house. Despite the fact that they are unable to see each other, they will still hear and smell the other animal.
Once you have done this for a few days, you can start introducing the animals to one another from a safe distance. Try feeding your Ragdoll and your dog on opposite sides of a door to see how it works. This fosters trust and helps both animals to associate the pleasurable experience of a meal with the presence of a new animal.
You can allow the animals to see each other for a brief time, through a barrier.
Dogs frequently get over-excited when meeting a cat for the first time, which may cause your Ragdoll to become afraid. If you want to redirect your dog’s attention, keep your cat in sight but do not make it the focal point of attention. Make toys or treats your dog’s primary focus instead.
When it comes to introducing two pets, the scent is also extremely important. After a few days, switch out their bedding so that both animals can acclimatize to the new smells without becoming overly agitated by them.
When you are confident that both pets are comfortable with each other’s presence, you can arrange a face-to-face meeting between them. You should always be present during such meetings, and the meeting should happen in a separate area from their safe spaces, to avoid any confusion.
With any luck, the first face-to-face meeting will be a positive experience. However, it may take several weeks or even months for both animals to feel completely at ease with one another.
Keep in mind that all animals are unique. Some cats and dogs become best friends right away, while others must first learn to tolerate one another before they can become friends. Always keep a close eye on both animals until you are confident that they will get on well.
Can a Ragdoll cat be aggressive?
Ragdolls are well-known for being one of the gentlest breeds in the cat family, and for good reason. It is understandable, therefore, that a Ragdoll owner may be perplexed if their cat suddenly becomes aggressive. According to cat experts, a cat’s aggressive behavior can be triggered by a number of factors.
When they reach sexual maturity, cats have the potential to become aggressive. Because of their hormones, they are prone to territorial behavior during this life stage. This is one of the reasons it is recommended to have your Ragdoll spayed or neutered so that their hormones do not play such havoc in their bodies.
Ragdolls that have not been socialized or trained properly can also develop aggressive behavior. They are more likely to be intimidated and insecure when confronted with unfamiliar people, pets, or situations, and will thus become defensive in such situations.
A Ragdoll’s sudden aggression toward you could also be a way of demanding more time and attention from you. Or, it may be that your pet is not feeling well and something is wrong with him. Pay close attention in order to better understand where the aggression is coming from. Additionally, you can discuss the situation with your veterinarian or pet behaviorist for guidance on how to proceed.
What are the dog breeds that get along best with a Ragdoll cat?
Dog breeds, like cat breeds, have very distinct traits that distinguish them from one another. It is critical to consider the characteristics of a dog breed before adopting one, especially if you already own a Ragdoll. The fact that there are so many different canine breeds makes it useful to consider a breed’s grouping.
Breeds from the herding group are known for rounding up prey, which may include your cat. Terrier breeds have a natural instinct to hunt critters on the run, and hound breeds enjoy chasing other animals.
Although dogs from these breeds can be taught not to be aggressive toward your cat, their instincts will always remain. Instead, take a look at the dog breeds associated with sports. They are frequently well-rounded and approachable.
The toy group is another excellent option to consider. These lap dogs are highly sought-after for their affectionate and friendly personalities and would prefer to curl up with your Ragdoll instead of chasing after him.
The following are the best breeds to have as a friend for your Ragdoll:
Labrador Retriever
These sporting dogs may have large bodies, but they also have large hearts and a lot of love to share with their owners. They have a similar laid-back demeanor to that of a Ragdoll, which makes the two a great match.
Golden Retriever
These sporting dogs are devoted to their entire family, including their feline companions. They are gentle and outgoing at the same time and are not difficult to train. They are a happy breed and will want to play a lot with your Ragdoll.
Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants who are incredibly sensitive to their surroundings. They appear to be able to sense what a person or animal of any size requires. Irish Wolfhounds are also not the most energetic dogs, so your cat will have a go-to cuddle buddy any time he needs one.
Beagle
Despite the fact that beagles are members of the hound group, they make excellent companions for felines. They are small, friendly, and devoted. Because beagles were bred to be pack animals, your cat would be regarded as a family rather than a prey.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This dog is part of the toy group and is not quite as large as other spaniel breeds. These spaniels are small and sweet, and not aggressive in any way. They will make an effort to become friends with even the most aloof cat.
Pug
Pugs are gentle, endearing, and fond of taking naps. They enjoy the company of other animals, making them an excellent choice for a household that already has a Ragdoll. Pugs are also smaller dogs, so your Ragdoll will not be that intimidated about interacting with them.
Conclusion
Yes, Ragdoll cats are good with dogs. In fact, they are often called “puppy cats”, because their demeanor and temperament have more in common with an eager puppy than it does with that of a typical cat.
This is actually one of the best breeds to consider if you already have a dog at home because a Ragdoll can get along so well with other animals.
However, although Ragdoll cats are generally great with dogs, this must always be considered on a case-by-case basis and you must be careful when initially introducing your new cat to your dog.
You will need to be patient with both pets as you slowly help them adapt to living together in the same house. It might take several weeks to a few months before your pets become completely at ease in each other’s company, so do not be disappointed if it is taking longer than you expected.
If you are sure about bringing a Ragdoll home to live with your dog, make sure that you are ready for double the responsibility and costs that come with having multiple pets.
Despite these caveats, if your pets are able to coexist harmoniously in your home, you and your family will be rewarded with twice the unconditional love.
Image: istockphoto.com / Emmanuelle Grimaud