Rag dolls are arguably one of the most beautiful cat breeds. With its long fur, distinctive markings, and bright blue eyes, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most sought after pedigree cats. Despite its name, there is nothing ragged or inelegant about this breed. In fact, its name comes from the fact that the breed tends to loosen up and remain completely relaxed when picked up.
The history of the first Ragdoll cats is somewhat strange. They were bred by a breeder named Ann Baker, in California in the 1960s, who believed her cat had been genetically altered while he was hospitalized after a car accident. After returning home from treatment, she claimed the long-haired white cat, named Josephine, was now limp when she was picked up. While this could have been a side effect of the accident, her next litter of kittens showed the same trait, leading Baker to believe that Josephine’s genes had been altered. She set about breeding Josephine with males that displayed distinctive and attractive markings, and the Ragdoll breed was developed.
Although recognizable by their distinctive markings when fully grown, Ragdoll kittens are born completely white and can take up to three years to reach maturity and for their coats to fully develop the markings. For this reason, if you are buying a Ragdoll kitten, it is extremely important to check all documents that can verify the kitten’s pedigree, especially if you plan to show the cat.
A Ragdoll cat’s coat is extremely soft and silky, and is often said to be more like a rabbit’s than a cat’s. Unlike many other breeds, Ragdolls are not prone to shedding too much and, in fact, may shed less than shorthair cats. Another characteristic of this remarkable breed is that its coat does not require as much brushing or grooming as other long-haired breeds. Running a long tooth comb or brush through your Ragdoll’s coat once a week is usually enough to remove dead hair and smooth out any tangles. However, pay special attention to your cat’s armpit area, as this is a place where matting can occur.
Ragdoll cats are typically white with some shades of color towards the extremities such as the ears, tail and paws. These markings are similar to those of a Siamese. There are three general types of markings found within the Ragdoll breed: pointed, bicolor, and gloved. All of these colors are acceptable at shows as long as they conform to the requirements of each brand pattern. Pointed Ragdoll cats have colors that closely resemble the Siamese, with their coat all one color and darkening towards the tips of their ears and tail. Bicolor Ragdoll cats are the same hue, but with a distinctive upside-down V of white on the face, and with a white chest, stomach, and paws. Mittened rag dolls are similar in color to Pointy, but must have a white chest and stomach, as well as white feet or “socks”.
Another trait that the Ragdoll shares with a Siamese cat is light eyes. Although the most desirable color is blue, it is not uncommon for Ragdoll cats to have light green eyes.
When it comes to size, Ragdolls are one of the largest cat breeds. Fully grown male cats can weigh up to ten kilograms (1.5 stones or 20 pounds) with female cats being slightly lighter. They are stocky cats with strong bones, however their friendly, outgoing features and shaggy coat soften their overall appearance.
In addition to requiring little grooming and being easy to handle, another characteristic that makes these beautiful cats great family pets is their temperament. Ragdoll cats are gentle giants and tend to be calm, placid, calm and collected cats. They are also very affectionate and enjoy spending time with their owners. They make great pets for families with children and also tend to get along with other animals. Its beauty and charm are sure to win the hearts of any lucky owner.
