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 Ragdoll
Cat
Breed Profile
Related
Links
Ragdoll Photos
Ragdoll
Breeders
Photos and breed profile courtesy of
Raghaven Ragdolls
Ragdoll History
The
Ragdoll breed is believed to have originated around 1965. Anne Baker is reputed
to be the original breeder. There are many different stories as to the breed
origin of these cats but it is thought to have started with a white Persian and
Angora mix cat called "Josephine". Kittens born from Josephine appeared to have
a very gentle disposition and a loving nature, magnificent blue eyes and non
matting fur. They have a tendency to hang limply in your arms when picked up.
Hence the name Ragdoll.
Ragdoll Appearance
The overall picture of the
Ragdoll cat is that of a large muscular body, especially in males, large blue eyes,
with an aesthetically pleasing solid head and body. Their coat comes in two
lengths, one is short the other, medium/long. Both coats are soft and luxurious
to touch, similar to that of rabbit fur.
They are a
'floppy' cat as the name Ragdoll suggests and they tend to go limp when you pick
them up.
The
Ragdoll's fur is non matting so they
require very little maintenance and are generally a very healthy breed with no
known major health problems.
Ragdoll
Colours and Patterns
Currently the main colours in the Ragdoll are Seal, Blue, Chocolate, Lilac, Red and Cream. They also come in
Tortie and Tabby (Lynx) Patterns. Chocolate and Lilac are a lot more difficult
to acquire.
Bicolour -
white inverted "V" in the facial mask, white legs, feet, ruff and stomach, point
coloured ears and tail.
Colourpoint - facial mask, ears, feet, tail and nose. A colourpoint has no
white.
Mitted - White in front paws "gloves" and halfway up in back legs. Chin and
chest are white and stomach has a white strip. Sometimes a mitted Ragdoll may
also have a white blaze/snip on the nose.
Ragdoll Characteristics:
Ragdolls are born white and don't obtain their full colour until 2 years of age.
Ragdolls don't reach maturity until at least 3 years of age.
Neutered males weigh about 7-12 kilos and are a large muscular build.
Spayed females weigh about 5.5 - 8 kilos and are slightly smaller.
The Ragdoll's coat comes in two lengths, one is shorter, the other medium/long.
Ragdolls are a very healthy breed with no known major health problems.
Ragdoll Personality
Ragdolls are extremely docile and love to be held and cuddled.
They are usually relaxed in new surroundings and get on well with dogs and cats.
Ragdolls are very affectionate and gentle making them an ideal pet for children.
They have a quiet voice and are playful without being noisy or destructive.
Ragdolls are a very laid back cat and become devoted to their owners.
Ragdolls are strictly an indoor cat, as they have no fight or preservation
instincts, they will not defend themselves.
A Ragdoll will want to share everything you do. They love to be with you.
They are more of a friend than a cat. All they require is lots of tender love
and they will give you unconditional love in return.
Related Links
Ragdoll Photos
Ragdoll Breeders
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