Okay so last month I finally pulled the trigger on adopting a ragdoll tuxedo cat after watching like fifty YouTube videos. The whole process actually started way before that though. First step was convincing my landlord to allow pets – took three weeks of begging and promising extra security deposit. Paperwork nightmare honestly.
The Adoption Hunt
Checked three shelters before finding Smokey at this tiny rescue place downtown. Immediately noticed his formal-looking black-and-white tuxedo pattern against the fluffy white body. Lady running the place warned me: “He’s got that classic ragdoll floppy thing but watch out – tuxies got attitude.” Paid the fee, grabbed a cheap carrier from Petco, and drove him home while he yowled like a broken siren the whole way.
First 48 Hour Disaster Zone
Let him out in my bathroom first like everyone says to do. Big mistake with this dude. He immediately flattened himself like a pancake under the sink and gave me this judgey stare. Refused wet food, only ate dry kibble after I left the room. At 3am he discovered how to rattle the bathroom door handle. Never slept that night – just constant CLACK CLACK CLACK.
Personality Surprises
Three things shocked me once he warmed up:
- Velcro cat mode: Follows me everywhere including bathroom showers. Sits directly on my keyboard during Zoom calls
- Dog-like tendencies: Actually plays fetch with hair ties and comes when called (mostly)
- Tuxedo sass: Makes this snorting sound when displeased. Hates the color red – will attack red towels violently
Not what I expected from “docile” ragdolls! That tuxedo marking definitely brings extra personality.
Care Trial and Error
Brushing was our first battle. Thought I could use a regular hairbrush – nope. Fur matted after two days. Had to buy this $30 slicker brush thing. Bathing? Forget it. Found waterless foam shampoo works okay but he still glares at me after. Big win: automatic feeder stopped his 5am wakeup screams. Also learned he’ll only drink from a ceramic bowl – plastic makes him turn up his nose like some fancy wine critic.
Current Situation
Two months in now and we’ve got routines. Brushing every other day keeps mats away. Found a fish-flavored toothpaste he tolerates (barely). Still wrestles with towels but at least not my good ones anymore. He sleeps next to my pillow snoring softly – till 6am when he starts patting my face for breakfast. Would I do it again? Absolutely. Just wish someone warned me about the fur tumbleweeds – I find them in my coffee cup sometimes.
