Cat Breeds 101: Ragdoll – Image To Repin / Share
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One of the largest breeds of cats, the Ragdoll is also distinguished by its unique colorpoint coat and blue eyes. The breed was claimed to be developed in the 1960’s in Riverside, California, by Ann Baker. It is believed that the breed’s ancestors were Josephine as the matriarch, along with Blackie, a solid black feline, and Daddy Warbucks. Prior to an accident, Josephine had produced several litters of typical cats. After the accident, her next litters were comprised of kittens which were more docile, and affectionate. The kittens were also of placid temperament which tend to relax especially when picked up. [1]
This sturdy, domesticated breed of cat normally comes in large frames and well-proportioned legs. Ragdolls also come in various colors which may include red, chocolate, seal, flame, as well as blue, cream and lilac dilutes. Normally, traditional ragdoll kittens are born white. Good color is only achieved when they are about eight to ten weeks. Meanwhile, full color begin to occur when they aged three to four years.
Ragdolls have been one of the favorites of cat fanciers because of their amazing personality. The breed easily blends with busy and modern households. It goes along well with children and other pets at home, even with dogs. It is easily carried by children in their arms.
The breed is noted for its intense interest in humans. Very affectionate by nature, ragdolls usually follow their owners wherever the latter go inside the house. They are the type that would greet you at the door, sleep next to you (or on you!), and choose to be with you as closely as they can. They can be playful at times, but they don’t normally extend their claws, so they won’t hurt you. Ragdolls are also listed as a relaxed, gentle and intelligent breed of cats.
Ragdolls normally have silky and plush coats which only require minimal grooming. They have a semi-long coat but have long guard hairs. Like other breeds of felines, ragdolls also shed with the change in season. But they are reliably well-behaved and are easy to groom. [2]
In a study conducted by a Swedish group, it was unfortunately found out that Ragdolls and Siamese are the breeds of felines which have the shortest life expectancy. For ragdolls, around 63% of the population are only able to live for more than ten years. The study further revealed that the breed has a higher susceptibility to urinary issues.
References:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ragdoll
[2] https://www.cfa.org/Breeds/BreedsKthruR/Ragdoll.aspx