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RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

kate elizabeth — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 21:21:15 GMT

on a happier note.... Its so great to hear that he is doing so well - I cant wait to see pictures! (hint )

I currently have a little girl in the 'crazy kitten' stage! It only lasts for a short time so take every bit of it you can!! And as they said - the stink does fade.... eventually!

I know it might seem like a huge undertaking after the experience but would you consider another baby for your baby? Ragdolls are VERY social and loooooove to have a best friend to play with! I fell in love with a rescue that was placed in a pet shop and it soon became clear that at home he didnt cope alone (he is also a ragdoll) so thats the reason for the new addition.

Congrats on the new grandkids as well?? I think... at least I hope I read that somewhere and am not going crazy

Oh and as they say, ragdolls do grow quite large - my boy was 6kgs (12lbs I think) at 8 months!! enjoy him!

(minnie I am sorry but your pictures wouldnt load on my pc - its tempermental, try posting in 'cat chat' )

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

kate elizabeth — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 21:00:50 GMT

I know its much to late to be posting here - but I do hope your new kitten is doing much better now?

I was going through a similar situation just after these posts! I was also buying another raggie kitten but from a breeder thankfully only 4 hours away. She advised me the day before that I could come and collect the kitten and if she was not there for the handover that her daughter and the 'animal behavioral management therapist' for the kitten would be able to do so... We arrived at the location to find no one home, garbage everywhere and one single ragdoll cat out the front with clumps of fur missing. We peaked through the windows (as you do when your told they will be there for you) and the house was a complete mess and despite her web page stating that her cats live in her house.... there was not a sole to be seen! I was strangely enough never asked for my details for the mircochip information. She did collect my 'cell' number and rather then calling me on the morning of leaving - about an hour before the pick up time she sent me an email to my OFFICE email address to say she couldnt be there. She took my money and ran basically. It is still with the consumer affairs and given the amount of money paid for the kitten as well as travel and accommodation costs we will ask for the entire amount to be reimburse - as she promised in an email. Her excuses were, I was busy, I was admit to hospital, a family member died, I was at a cat show, I didnt know you were coming, the cats had the cat flu....all for the same one occasion!

I know exactly how you feel - I would have taken the little guy as well! Its just a pity I never even got to see my baby! I have more recently done the whole experience again (the kitten is a playmate for another cat I have) and it was just perfect - I was invited to meet the parents and litter mates and view the cattery etc. There are some really dodgy people out there just adding to the cats in shelters no doubt!

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

ValorieD44 — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 12:12:45 GMT

debra7252 (9/18/2009)

As an "expert" on Ragdolls, exactly what did she know? In my opinion, this self-described "Christian"should be ashamed of herself. Would like youropinion of this "breeder" as well as opinions on this baby being sold at such a small weight.I feel she had an obligation to contact me before my 7 hour trip to pick him up and advise his condition, weight, etc.Any opinions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again for taking the time.

This is late but - it sounds like you were "taken" by the typical greedy know-nothing, couldn't care less back-yard-breeder. How unfortunate! Many con-men and women toss in the "good Christian" card to gain your confidence. I'm glad you kept the little fella rather than return him to someone like this so-called breeder. Keep feeding him well with plenty of good quality canned food and he will surely blossom and continue to gain weight. I'm so happy he's thriving.

Next time you'll know better. We live and learn.his is

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

minnie — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 11:31:22 GMT

I'm sorry this is off topic but can someone help?

I have a 1-year old cat named Minnie. I've looked everywhere but can't seem to find her breed. She has always been a runt and is very loving and talkative. She also has a mark on her muzzle making it look "dirty." Does anyone know what breed or mix she is?

Thank you!

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:08:56 GMT

Thanks for the "crazy kitten" advice.

I'm very happy to announce that we weighed in today at 2.4 pounds !!!

And the vet said he's looking healthy, all his ailments have cleared (except for stinky poopie) his eye looks fine.

I was very happy with 2.4 pounds !!!

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

hvv — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:29:40 GMT

I love the "crazy kitten" stage, it's so entertaining! Your kitten is acting perfectly normal. All kittens are crazy, they just want to play. He will grow out of it. In the meantime, when he bites you or claws you continue to blow in his face and say "no". Then put him down and ignore him. (I'm thinking that you might want to give him a toy or something appropriate for him to bite, just to try to redirect him.) When he realizes that biting you means no more playing with you he will get the idea, but you have to be consistent. Good luck!

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 19:44:00 GMT

Can I ask you experts how to handle this little guy ?? I may not be in the correct "forum", but I'll take a chance.

This little bundle is full of energy...runs, chases, plays, hides, etc.

But he's also started biting...and hitting. If I pick him up while he's in a playful mood, he trys to worm away and trys to bite any part of me he can get his teeth on. I've tried yelling "NO", I've tried blowing on him, I've put him in his room and closed the door hoping he would calm down.

He doesn't seem to be catching on. What am I doing wrong ? At times he becomes Psycho Kittie !!!

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

hvv — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 10:22:58 GMT

Ah yes, there's nothing like the toxic cloud wafting through the house after a kitten visits the litter box....... I think that all kittens should come with a free gas mask!

I'm glad your little guy is doing well!

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

cats_dolls — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 17:48:11 GMT

Oops - I only later realized just what I'd said, that was pretty funny!

I'm delighted to hear that he's eating well and gaining weight. Sweet little baby, he truly was fortunate to find such a grand forever home!

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 15:29:18 GMT

Actually it's very helpful....and quite funny !!!

Thank you.....

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

cats_dolls — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 15:13:26 GMT

"This too shall pass."

Sorry, I know that's not much help, but it's a stage in their growth. As he grows a bit older, it will get better.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 11:26:52 GMT

Sorry guys, I meant poopie-stink advice ???

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 11:25:47 GMT

Thanks for the advice. I must say, for a little guy, he can sure stink up a room by going potty !!! He goes poopie and it smells like I've got an elephant living in my master bathroom ! I am amazed that smell can be produced by this little puff-ball ! Good heavens !

Is this normal ? He no longer has diarrhea, he's eatting really well, growing and gaining weight quickly, his finished his antibiotic. I'm scooping and cleaning all the time.

We are scheduled for our weigh-in tomorrow and will let you know.

Any poopie-stick advice ???

Thanks so much.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

cats_dolls — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 10:48:40 GMT

I agree - a small box with low sides, you want to make sure your little guy can get in & out easily. You may want more than one box - like one on each level, or at different ends of the house.

So how's he doing? How much has he grown now?

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

MiniBeast — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 10:16:34 GMT

Go for a smaller box but you will have to upgrade as your kitten grows. As the kitten is learning try and get a unscented litter, cats noses and smell a lot better than your, and scented litters can deter learning kittens. I hope I helped.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 08:30:39 GMT

Can anyone offer advice on litter boxes and litter ??

Thank you.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

PantherPride — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 19:42:52 GMT

Keep in mind allot of people in 3 world countries live on rice and gruel yet they are litterly breeding like rats... they must be doing good too

My point is dont believe the hype.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 17:12:40 GMT

Little Harley is huge....they grow so quickly.

I hope my little guy gets that big...but I'd probably have to add on a room just for him !

They are so sweet. I took a nap this afternoon and woke up to find my little Oliver sound asleep across my neck. He was very comfortable !

Grandbabies and kitties....it doesn't get any better !!!

Thanks again for all your help....and kind words.

Debra

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

cats_dolls — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 15:16:36 GMT

PantherPride - at this point the issues with the breeder are pretty much a non-issue as Debra is keeping the kitten and he's doing very well with her.

There are a lot of differing opinions about cat foods - wet, dry, or raw? Which brand(s) are good and which are junk? You could write a library and probably still not cover everything about cat food! And there are thousands of cats eating nothing but commercial cat food, living long healthy lives, with shiny fur, bright eyes, and lots of energy - so the cat food manufacturers must be doing something right!

P.S. to Debra - the white cat in the left photo is Harley, my Ragdoll, when he was about four months old. The middle photo is also Harley, taken on his 2nd birthday - see what you can look forward to?

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

PantherPride — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 10:59:26 GMT

Keep in mind when you look at the thousands of cat foods there are VERY few cat foods are consittered suitable long term for a 100% pure carnivorous animal.

Your breeder isnt good by any stretch of the mind, I doubt very much unless he either inhairted lots of money or is/was a millionarie that the foods he/she was feeding to that many cats would be anything to write home about

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

cats_dolls — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 08:08:52 GMT

Debra, thanks, I think I'm very lucky to have three beautiful babies too!

I don't know much about feline herpes other than that it is treatable though not curable. I believe L-Lysine added to their food helps control the symptoms - LaurieF, am I right on this?

If your vet's happy with the weight gain that's great! Your boy's going to just thrive no end with you and you're going to have so much fun watching him grow from a cute kitten to a gorgeous cat!

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 19:49:49 GMT

The vet is happy with his weight...says to keep doing what I'm doing.

I don't know how long he had diarrhea either...breeder states he didn't have it when he left her, but...

I'm worried about his eye...if it is feline herpes as someone mentioned, what does that mean for him ?? Do you know anything about it ?

Thanks very much.

P.S. Your babies are beautiful !

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

cats_dolls — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:41:18 GMT

WOW! He's making up fast for his lighter youth! I'd almost be worried that he's putting on weight too fast - what does your vet say?

I'm glad to hear that he's thriving under your care. Gee, wonder what was going on with the breeder that he's gaining so well now that he's away from there but eating the same stuff?

BTW, I'm from Georgia myself, so I understand fully what you said about the Georgia laws vs. Florida laws. Your state does have some pretty protective laws regarding pets from what I understand. Many states don't, many states regard cats (and sometimes dogs too) as property.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:14:50 GMT

Just an update...we were back to the vet today for what appears to be an eye infection...hopefully minor and will respond to oinment.

The good news is my little guy weighed in at a whopping 1.9 lbs. !!!

What do you guys think about it ? Remember he was only 15 ounces on 9/14...

Does this sound like a good weight gain to you ? Is he gaining as quickly as he should be for his age ?

He was 11 weeks old on Wednesday.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

PantherPride — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:39:31 GMT

I'm sorry if my ranting bothered you. but its VERY abnormal for a ragdoll to be like this. The best thing you can do is get him on a good raw diet such as Natures variety or Primal, if thats too much try canned foods like Innova EVO,Instincts, natures logic, wellness core/grain free. Keep him indoor only, Don't de claw. go to (www.StopDeclaw.com)

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:48:31 GMT

I've also learned that while looking for a "reputable" breeder, I should have also researched Georgia states laws (or lack thereof) regarding health requirements, vaccinations, health certificates, etc. Seems the State of Georgia is lacking in these requirements. Come to find out, my own state of Florida is pretty strict with their requirements for breeders. Needless to say, I won't be buying another Ragdoll cat from Georgia !!!

At the suggestion of another very helpful member, I plan to file a formal complaint with TICA, the ASPCA, the Dept of Agriculture, and every other agency I can find in Georgia.

Any other suggestions or actions I can take would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks to everyone.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 06:14:38 GMT

You are absolutely right...I appreciate your opinion. I did research the breed and the breeder before I made a committment. My fault was trusting the information provided by the breeder. That won't happen again.

This little guy is doing incredibly well. I wish I had one ounce of his energy.

I'll keep you all updated and hope to get pictures posted soon.

Thanks again.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

Ocimom — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 18:47:17 GMT

I really hate when people get ripped off. But part of your problem was not researching the breed in the beginning. Had you done that you would know that this kitten was not healthy, severly underweight for the age and you would have not gotten it.

I'm glad he's doing better, but he could have many medical problems, so please be prepared for a "costly" cat or one that may not live a long life.

First things:

1. Do not adopt a kitten under 3-4 months old. Reputable breeders will not let them go before 3 months old, have all shots, and are neutered and spayed before you get them.

2. Read the standard and know what the kitten is supposed to look like, etc.

3. Have a contract and health guarantee and shot record.

Average kittens weigh about a pound per month of age. This poor little baby was 2 months old and should have weighed a good 2 1/2 lbs (Raggy males are larger). That should have been your first clue.

Keep us updated on how he's doing

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 19:56:53 GMT

While I appreciate all opinions and taking the time, I would never, ever, ever put down an animal. There is nothing "humane" in doing so, unless the animal is terminally ill and suffering. I promise you this kitten is not suffering, quite the contrary. He's gaining weight, has a little pudge belly now, he's learning how to pounce, racing around, chasing his tail and purring and eating up a storm. He's so affectionate and loves to be held and snuggle. I did see her "cattery", she took us on a tour, it was very clean and the other cats/kittens I saw seemed well taken care of and healthy. I had read a little about her and what I found was all positive. I found no complaints anywhere. I was just blind-sighted when I first saw him...nothing like I expected, but like I said, I couldn't leave him there. I don't care about the money...I'm really upset at myself for being so trusting. Among my many faults..I take people at face value. Some day I learn. In the meantime, this blue-eyed powder puff is mine to care for..all 18 ounces of him. Buying or adopting an animal is a life-long commitment for me...and I never give up on them....ever.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

PantherPride — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 19:30:04 GMT

I thought the kitten was worse off then that, not even 2 pounds, over 3 months, having a running nose.

Rag dolls are supposed to be a gigantic even a monster breed, not dwarfs, how healthy is this kitten going to ever be, Bindi was bigger at that age and he is only a little over 8 lbs at 3! Rag dolls should weigh at least 10 lbs full grown. 30 to 25 pounds isn't uncommon.

I agree I've spoken out of turn about the PTS issue.

I would de worm him, maybe worms are sucking the life out if he's so far past the standard.

How is he now?

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

cats_dolls — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 14:29:01 GMT

PantherPride - Putting a kitten/cat to sleep is not the answer to every problem!

I happen to agree with you about the breeder, this does sound like a "backyard breeder" rather than one who truly cares about the breed she works with and the kittens she is responsible for producing.

But that's just about where I stop agreeing with you. Once a kitten is born, no matter what the circumstances, it needs and deserves a good loving home, and this kitty has one. Debra didn't take the kitten back to the breeder because she already loves him, and the fact that he's gained 3 ounces within his first week with her - and seen his new vet - tells me that he's now being well-cared for. Yes, he left his mama a little soon, and yes, he's underweight now, but from what Debra has told us about him beginning to play and purr and eat, I don't believe he's suffering. Certainly it doesn't appear that he's doomed to a life of permanent suffering!

I bet if this kitten could speak "human", he'd tell you that he's quite happy just where he is, thank you very much, and would prefer to have the chance to grow up, even if he did get a not-so-great start, than to be put to sleep. You and I have problems, as do all other people in this world - but wouldn't you rather be here?

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

PantherPride — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 13:56:04 GMT

I really don't like it either, but what's to be done.. the kitten is vastly underweight.. clearly suffering, if she gives him/her back the breeder will probably do it anyway or worse make a profit from it.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

MiniBeast — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 11:55:34 GMT

PantherPride (9/19/2009)

Take kitten to vet have him/her humanely put down/re homed and get a money back from breeder. Say cat died in your care.

Putting the kitten to sleep would not solve the problem! She is attached to this kitten, and that is why she didn't take the kitten back. And if she did put the kitten down and she said the cat died in her care then this breeder would probably say too bad, from how debra7252 was describing about this breeder.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

PantherPride — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 11:50:13 GMT

Sounds like a bad case of BYB!! Backyard breeding!

DO NOT support such fifth, they ruin entire breeds. Crank out kittens like coke-a-cola

Take kitten to vet have him/her humanely put down/re homed and get a money back from breeder. Say cat died in your care.

Good breeders do or are supposed to do the following.

Will not adopt out sick kittens- your breeder has failed

Will adopt kittens that are of 12 weeks or older- ?

Will allow you to see the breeding property and the queen and tom-your breeder has failed.

Will not allow kitten to be de clawed in our care/ allowed outside- your breeder has "probably?" failed.

I would ALWAYS visit the place BEFORE you do ANYTHING.

We put down an order and visited the home, in Iowa. Leopalorn was 11/12 weeks and we saw his mom and siblings.

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

cats_dolls — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 08:26:03 GMT

debra7252 (9/18/2009)

I know I must sound like an idiot for not refusing him, and maybe I am to some. But regardless of his size or health, I couldn't refuse him. I just couldn't do it.

No, you don't sound like an idiot to me, you sound like an angel. Certainly to this little baby you are one!

He's in good hands with you. You mentioned that you are new to kittens - as you have questions, please come back here and post them. I have a feeling that you won't be asking your breeder! But someone here usually will have an answer for you and will be glad to help you. We're all looking forward to "watching" this kitten grow up!

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

MiniBeast — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 06:13:00 GMT

Can't wait for some pictures of the little guy!

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 19:35:40 GMT

Thank you so much !

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

debra7252 — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 19:34:52 GMT

Thanks very much for your advice. I'm afraid we can't blame a change in food..the breeder gave me 2 cans and a bag of dry food that he had been eating and that's only what I've fed him. We picked him up on Sat, 9/12 and had him at the vet Monday morning, 9/14/09. I know I must sound like an idiot for not refusing him, and maybe I am to some. But regardless of his size or health, I couldn't refuse him. I just couldn't do it. So, there you have it. And somehow I think this "Christian breeder" was counting on just that, especially after a 7 hour ride. She was "kind" enough to offer to let us "bring him back" if we're not happy with him. I did advise that I would not return him, but would make certain to post her emails and all documentation related to this kitten's health on every website I could access. It might save the next unsuspecting buyer from her. She had the audacity to threat ME with legal action for slander. I then emailed her the definition of "slander". Thanks again and I'll post pictures of my little guy soon. He's a sweetie, but you might need to "zoom in" to see him !!!

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

MiniBeast — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 19:00:11 GMT

I have been following this topic but since I have no experience I couldn't help you in your situation, but I am glad to hear that you kitten is doing good. And I'm sure that you will be a great mommy!

RE: Underweight Ragdoll Kitten

cats_dolls — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:47:33 GMT

Thank goodness he's doing well! The language you quoted from your contract is familiar to me - I've seen lots of contracts on breeders' websites, and without looking up my contract for Kearstie (my Scottish Fold), I can tell you that it had some very similar language. I can also tell you that Kearstie's health record was a simple page showing the dates that she was vaccinated and with what vaccines - not just "FVRCP" but the brand.

I don't think I asked what her weight was, but I would certainly have expected the breeder to have a pretty close idea, and I would have expected her to know if this was the "runt" and if the kitten had shown any sign of diarrhea. In your breeder's defense, I have to point out that changing brands of food can cause diarrhea in cats - and you may not have known what she'd been feeding.

I don't quite know what to think about the breeder telling you verbally that it was OK to declaw your kitten even though the contract specified that the kitten should not be declawed. I would think that a court would go by the written contract over a verbal agreement.

Ragdolls are one of the largest breeds of domestic cat. I don't know how much a 9 1/2 week old Raggie should weigh, but I was quite surprised in your original post to learn that this kitten weighed 15 oz. at that age! Our Raggie is a shelter kitty that we got when he was 10 weeks old (he got separated from his mother at 2 weeks and was handraised by the shelter office manager). I think he weighed about 4-5 lbs. when we first got him.

I probably wouldn't go back to this breeder for another cat - but I'm glad you're keeping this baby, it sounds like he has a good home with you. I'm excited for you having a new kitten - when can we see pictures?