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my 2 year old ragdoll kitty will not purr- what's the problem?
We purchased our ragdoll, Galinda, from a cattery in January. Originally used as a breeder at the cattery, Galinda had one litter of kittens, but was deemed too small to continue to produce, was spayed and offered for purchase. She does not purr when petted (but will allow petting), wants down when held and will not sit on laps. Otherwise, Galinda is a playful, healthy cat. We love her and want our kitty to be happy. Any guidance? Thank you!
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Member 982284
on Apr 18th 2010
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in Socialization
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Best Answer
It can take a cat a month before they really start feeling comfortable and settled in their new home. Are you sure she doesn't purr? Some cats have unusually soft purrs. Give her some time. Interactive wand toys are great for bonding and occasional treats too. Do not try to force the issue. Let her come to you and if she doesn't want to be held or sit in your lap - let her go. Talk to her, pet her, and give her plenty of attention.
I agree with the previous poster that sometimes kitties from breeders don't get very much attention or socialization. Usually this is more of an issue with breeders who have a lot of cats and backyard breeders. I don't know the situation Galinda came from, but be patient and give her time. Moving to a new home and family is probably the most stressful thing that can happen to a cat. It's also possible she may not be a cat that likes to be held or sit on laps. She might have a more independent personality and might just prefer to be near you.
Linus (Dreamboat #72a) answered on Apr 18th.
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Most cats that were used as breeders are like this . You will just have to keep working with her . She may come around in time with being held or sitting on laps . There are so many cats in a cattery that they don't get that one on one time together with the owner because they are busy breeding kittens . This all depends on the breeder and how they treat their cats I am not saying that all breeders do this , but some do .
King
answered on 4/18/10.
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Did you interact with Galinda at the cattery, or did you buy her without meeting her first? If she was friendlier at the cattery than now, she's probably still getting used to her new home. If you bought her without meeting her first, this may just be her personality. But personalities can change. When I got Harvey (Maine Coon), he wouldn't meet my eyes and didn't seem to know what being affectionate meant. He still doesn't like being hugged, but he's turned into a Mama's boy and loves to be petted and fussed over. He has a silent purr. I can't say whether Galinda's being used as a breeding cat changed her personality or not. I have one stud and five queens, and while I keep the stud and any sexually mature males away from the females, the neutered cats, intact females, and kittens are allowed to roam freely inside my home. I have produced some very affectionate cats, but there will always be some who are shyer than others. Just keep showing Galinda affection on her terms.
Harvey
answered on 4/19/10.
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Don't believe what King wrote about "Most cats that were used as breeders are like this." That's NOT true and King would only know this if s/he treated their cat like that. I've been to cat shows and have met many breeders and they lover their cats.
It seems like it's the cat's personality to not purr or be a lap cat. Just like some cats are quiet and don't meow. You could try giving her treats every time she's on your lap to reward her. Then she'll associate that action with pleasure. Keep trying.
Rainey
answered on 4/19/10.
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