Do Ragdoll Cats Get Jealous?

Cats are typically quieter, less demanding, and very passive, however, when it comes to ragdoll cats this is the biggest misconception. Ragdoll cats are extremely affectionate, loves companionship, and can become jealous when you pay more attention to an object, person, or pet.

Its very possible for ragdoll cats to get jealous since they share a very intimate relationship with their owners and the people around them. They thrive off affection, attention and if this isn’t given anymore they will become jealous and display behaviour that isn’t normal. This apparent behavior is their way to obtain social dominance.

According to animal behaviorists, its possible for cats to display behaviors that we has humans know as jealously. Cats in general cannot express human emotion and feelings but they are able to perceive and comprehend certain actions.

This may result in them behaving in a certain way to restore their territory. For ragdolls its basically to get all the attention to themselves or to obtain social dominance.

Ragdoll cats are very used to getting all the attention and affection at home and when you are unable to give this level of attention they will become tense and change their behavior to restore what’s missing.

Types of Jealousy.

Jealousy in cats is often categorized into different types of aggression and behavior. This behavior can be exhibited to an object, person, or pet that is making the cat feel the need to compete for your attention. Types of jealousy include:

Status Induced Aggression This refers to the level of authority and dominance that cats feel they have. Especially with ragdolls who are very affectionate and share a relatively close bond with their owners. They may feel more in power and see themselves as dominant.

Once the owner spends more time with something or someone either than the cat, this will result in jealous behavior. Signs include aggressive eye contact, blocking access to certain areas, biting or scratching, rubbing, and spraying.

Territorial Aggression refers to an invasion of the cat’s territory which makes them uncomfortable and defensive. This can be a new pet, a new family member, or any type of change. This also refers to an object such as a phone or laptop which takes a lot of our attention.

This makes the cat feel the need to compete for your attention as there is a shift in your focus. You will see that your cat will become super clingy, more vocal, and will try to get your attention.

Signs Of A Jealous Ragdoll Cat.

There are a few signs that are associated with a jealous cat that you can use to check if your ragdoll is jealous. While ragdolls will not perceive this as jealousy their actions that they exhibit is known to us as jealousy. Note that these actions don’t necessarily mean that the cat is jealous but rather is a sign that something is wrong.

These signs include:

  1. Increased aggression such as biting and vocalization.

2. Swatting at an object, person or pet.

3. Displaying Destructive behavior such as scratching.

4. Urinating/marking territory.

5. Physically coming in the way between you and the object or person they are jealous of.

Ways To Deal With A Jealous Ragdoll

The first step is to identify the trigger, what’s making the cat display such behavior. Once you identify the problem you can address it. Normally it’s a change, shift in focus, or an addition to their surrounding.

Give Your Cat Assurance.

One of the main reasons for ragdoll jealousy is the lack of assurance. The cat is used to being clothed in affection and human interaction. Now when there is a change in the surrounding you aren’t able to give the cat this level of attention, it will result in them being confused and neglected.

Cats can adapt well to anything as long as you are patient and gentle. Likewise, make sure your ragdoll isn’t left feeling separated. Always give them assurance with touch, cuddles, voice, or active play. Always include them and allow them to be involved.

Give the Cat Their Own Space.

Its very important to give your cat its own space. An area for them to have full control and obtain their dominance. When there is a change at home or some sort of unfamiliarity your cat will pick up on this and it will affect their behavior.

Their only escape or sense of normality is for their own space to remain consistent without any visible changes. Cats love routine and anything either than that will be enough to cause them to stress.

Spend Time With The Cat.

With changes comes responsibility and routines that must be recreated. So far we has established possible reasons as to why ragdolls will get jealous. Now you have to create some sort of routine for them to adjust to, recreate their new normal.

This must include enough time for affection, playtime, and human interaction. Ragdolls are very socially dependent and will require a lot of interaction. Make sure the cat is well-taken care for, and is adjusting properly to the new arrangement.

Teach The Ragdoll To Accept It.

Ultimately the cat must adapt and accept any changes that are unavoidable. A new pet, a baby, or even a new partner cannot be avoided. Instead of hiding the problem, it’s best to solve it. Allow the cat to experience the change, whatever it may be.

You can practice positive reinforcement and reward your feline with treats, love, and affection whenever they display approved behavior. This will create a smooth transition allowing the cat to get used to the change.

Sometime all your feline wants is to sniff around and make sense of the change. This will ease their anxiety and predatory instincts.

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