Ragdoll Cats

Ragdoll cats are a popular breed of domestic cats known for their affectionate and gentle nature. They were first developed in the 1960s in California by a breeder named Ann Baker. Baker bred a white Persian cat named Josephine with a Birman male, resulting in a litter of kittens with unique qualities. These kittens had a docile temperament, soft and plush coats, and blue eyes. Baker named them "Ragdolls" because of their tendency to go limp and relaxed when picked up or held, much like a ragdoll toy.

Ragdoll cats are large and muscular cats, with males typically weighing between 12-20 pounds and females weighing between 8-15 pounds. They have a distinct semi-longhaired coat that is soft and silky to the touch. The coat comes in several different colors, including seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, cream, and tortoiseshell. Ragdolls are known for their striking blue eyes, which can be deep blue, bright blue, or a mix of blue and gold.

One of the most notable characteristics of Ragdoll cats is their friendly and affectionate personality. They are known for being "lap cats" and love nothing more than snuggling up to their owners for a nap or a cuddle. They are also very patient and tolerant of children and other pets, making them an excellent family pet. Ragdolls are not typically known for being vocal, but they are intelligent cats that can be trained to do tricks and respond to their name.

Ragdoll cats are also known for their calm and laid-back temperament. They are not typically high-energy cats and are content to spend their days lounging around the house. They do enjoy playtime, though, and are particularly fond of toys that allow them to practice their hunting skills, such as wand toys or toy mice. Ragdolls are also known for their love of water and may enjoy playing in a shallow pool or drinking from a running faucet.

When it comes to grooming, Ragdoll cats require regular brushing to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free. They are not typically prone to matting or shedding excessively, but brushing their coats will help to distribute natural oils and keep their fur looking and feeling soft and silky. Ragdolls also require regular nail trimming and dental care to keep them healthy and happy.

As with all purebred cats, Ragdoll cats are prone to certain health issues. These may include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which is a heart condition that can cause sudden death in cats. It's important to choose a reputable breeder that tests their cats for HCM and other genetic conditions. Ragdolls are also prone to bladder stones and urinary tract infections, so it's important to keep their litter box clean and provide them with plenty of fresh water.

Ragdoll cats are a popular breed of domestic cats known for their affectionate and gentle nature. They are large and muscular cats with a distinctive semi-longhaired coat and striking blue eyes. They are friendly and patient, making them an excellent choice for families with children or other pets. Ragdolls are not typically high-energy cats and are content to spend their days lounging around the house. They do require regular grooming and care to keep them healthy and happy. As with all purebred cats, it's important to choose a reputable breeder and stay on top of your cat's health needs.