Why is my Ragdoll kitten aggressive?

Question

We just bought a $700 Ragdoll kitten last weekend. He did fine the first weekend, but after this past week... he does not purr anymore when you hold him (only occasionally) and puts up a fight when holding him. I thought they were supposed to just "melt" in your arms?

I have played with him non stop, gave him plenty of love, and also gave him treats.

The only time we can really spend time with him is in the evenings during the week and on the weekends. We work Monday through Friday 8-5.

We gave him a bath on Monday of last week (when he was doing great) and he actually bit us! I am a bit frustrated because I spent all this money to get an awesome cat. I did get the kitten from a reputable breeder and also not until he was 12 weeks. The entire time he was with his brothers and mother.

I did notice he has been sneezing and has **** coming out of his eyes all the time. Could this be affecting his mood?

Please help! Thanks!

Answer 1

What criteria did you use to determine "reputable"?  I'll give you some tips for future, did they advertise on the web or in the paper?  If so, not reputable.  Reputable breeders have the kittens all spoken for before they are even born.  Those advertising on the web are looking for a quick buck, will ship and you likely do not get a sound pet.  

But more important is a responsible breeder, that is different than :"reputable".  A responsible breeder would have sold you a spayed/neutered kitten as a pet, not intact, they would have required you use a vet, they would be following up with you to see how they are doing and I doubt they would have sent out a sick cat (colds generally incubate for a week or so).

Rags dont' always purr and some I met are very, very cranky.  Not everyone who breeds animals, loves them or thinks about the owners that will have to deal with the problems some create.

If you want a great Rag, there are hundreds in shelters and rescues everywhere and they cost a lot less money and you can find an organization that would help you out with any questions.

Answer 2

A reputable breeder would have insisted that you bring him to see a vet within 48 hours after purchase.  You also should have a contract that you and the breeder both signed and have a copy guaranteeing  that he was in good health and free of illness and parasites.  Please read this article about purchasing pedigree kittens.  It's about Maine Coons, but applies to any breed http://www.absolutelycats.com/22BuyingKi...

You should take him to a vet asap as it sounds like he has an upper respiratory infection.  These URIs can really take a lot out of a kitten and can be quite serious.  He can be treated and most recover quickly and completely.  Sick kittens are sometimes aggressive.  A bit like a small child who will act out when ill.

I am sorry that your initial experience has not been going well.  But I think when your kitten is feeling better, you'll find you have the Ragdoll baby that you hoped for.

Good Luck and lots of hugs for your Ragdoll boy!

Answer 3

the bath may have frightened him, or possibly gotten him a cold, also, all kittens i have had, about 25 or so, have all been somewhat aggressive, some of that aggression could also be playing that just looks aggressive, take him to a vet to make sure he doesnt have a major sickness like pnuemonia or something like that for cats, and he'll be fine.

Answer 4

A trip to the vet might be in order.Eyes should always be clear and bright.Most cats don't like water baths so the biting will go with that territory.It may take a while for your cat to get used to the baths so don't give up,or he may never.Cats are so clean its not necessary anyway.Cats will get aggressive when in pain,hungry,or stressed.Give your new friend time to get used to all of you and by all means take him to the vet or at least call with all symphoms.That's a lot of money and you will not want anything to happen to your cat.I know it will work out for you give it alittle time.

Answer 5

Yea. This is bothering his mood because it's bugging him very much so he's putting it out on somebody else so he gets attention and so you guys know he needs help! Here are some ways:

Vet.

Leave him alone for awhile, don't hold him maybe he will calm down.

Give him FRESH water and FRESH food. Make sure it doesn't have anything that'll afect him.

Is he fat? Or is he still small? Because maybe he has had to many treats and doesn't feel good. Maybe the best thing to do is take him straight to the vet!

Answer 6

My ragdoll kitty melts in my arms. When he did not feel good he did bite me when I gave him a bath.