Question:
I've been wanting to add another pet to my home for some time now, and wanted it to be a rescue adult.
Yesterday I adopted a 2-yr old Ragdoll cat, a lovely male who was surrendered to the shelter along with his brother. The owners were apparently travelling to Europe - dont understand why they couldnt they have arranged temporary care or if they "had" to part with them.... at least rehomed their pets themselves privately. I truly wished I could have taken both, but just not possible for me to have four cats.

As Ragdolls are known to be fairly laid back, docile cats, I thought this would be a good match of temperment for my present cats. ( persian and himalayan) He seems a wonderful cat, and appears very loving and affectionate
I have him segregated, of course, and have been just switching areas for them all - so they can all get used to each others scent.
So far, he doesnt appear nearly as stressed as I imagined - he's inquisitive, exploring around, has been purring and even a little playful. He has used the litter box and been drinking water.

I am wondering how long I should wait before I try to introduce them all - and in what order? I thought the best way would be female cat, tiny dog.. and then lastly my male cat (he's very docile, fairly timid in nature, but two adult males seems like it would be the biggest challenge in adjusting to each other.
I wondered what else I could do to make this easier for them all? I expect it to take a while, of course - a lot of upheavhal for them.

I am curious too about the claim of the Ragdoll trait that they will not defend themselves if attacked? That seems a very strange phenomenom,and as there seems to be some "myths" associated with this breed of cat, thought this may be one.
( I am not planning on letting him go outdoors )

Answer:
Hi congrats on your new kitty - I have 3 ragdolls, and two rescued heinz57 type cats. Ragdolls are very different from your 'normal' cat

I find in general they tend not to have the same protective instincts as other cats - eg eating food with their back to the room, whereas the others would eat so they could see someone coming. They are often flopped out on the floor with their bellies exposed, and often greet strangers this way, which is a totally defenseless position for a cat.

It is a myth that they won't defend themselves but in general MOST are less aggressive at it. I find they are not good at putting the dog in her place when she gets too nosy, whereas they rescues are. I think most of the survival instincts get bred out, which is why breeders insist on them being indoor cats. However, they won't be too much different than your persian I wouldn't think.

I would expect some hissing on both sides and maybe a few swats. If you have a strong alpha in the home, they will have the hardest time, until the newbie learns his place. But mostly cats don't really care who's in charge unless they are a strong alpha.

I think you've done everything right so far, and would kind of play it by ear as to when to introduce. Its always harder to introduce an adult than a kitten so it may take a little longer. If they can play footsie through the door that may help too.

I'd start with supervised short sessions together and gradually increase the time. good luck

Answer:
Thanks Susan for the information on the Ragdolls and the suggestions.
I was amazed at how relaxed he appeared last night, and because of that I may have been going a bit too quickly. Today he retreated, spent most of the day under the downstairs sofa where he feels secure.I know that is perfectly natural this early in the game, he's only been here 24 hours after all. He is eating,. drinking and using the box - all good signs, I believe.
When he feels ready to explore again, and I'll just proceed slowly,and with caution.. a little at a time.
Thanks again for your help. I will post pics of him once he settles in. I have to come up with a new name too. It was Felix, but that was the name of the domestic kitty that my sister just recently lost.
That will never do. :(

Answer:
He sounds adorable Usually a raggie will be a very laid back kind of cat which it sounds like yours is. I just love mine - they are so sweet and gentle big babies! Lots for him to get used to so you're right he's probably feeling safe under the couch. I visit a ragdoll board if you're interested leave me a message and I'll send you a link and you can get more 'real' information about ragdolls than the propaganda you read

BTW - thank you for saving this precious little guy!!!!!!

Answer:
Is the new kitty fixed? I introduced a 5 year old male to my 13 year old male.
My 13 year old sounds like a ragdoll but isn't he is very docile as well but I have seen him very agressive towards a male unfixed cat.......fortunately the 5 year old that I introduced him to was fixed. I think that made a huge difference because he didnt seem bothered by him at all. It was not a slow introduction either :( as we had just moved in a new home at the time, suprisingly it was my 17 year old female that just cant stand him and still does not like him much not sure why but it has become calmer in the last year, I find either they get along or they dont I think it's a personality thing. My female is generally a bitchy to herself kind of cat so she has a hard time adjusting to any newbies

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