The Ragdoll Cat

The Ragdoll cat is easily one of the largest domestic cat breeds, and although size is what they are best known for they have a whole lot more to offer. Developed in the 1960's by crossing the Birman cat with Persian-types and mixing in a little of the Burmese cat, the breeder, Anne Baker, then concentrated on personality and glorious size. The floppy quality of the cat is very appealing and the name comes from this breeds completely unique way of "going limp" when picked up. These huge and fluffy cats will totally relax while being held, and loll over the side of your arm like - that's right- a "ragdoll".  The stuning blue eyes, beautiful coloring, plush coat, impressive size and loving personality combine to make one big and exceptional package. Ragdolls are absolutely wonderful pet cats, laid-back, gorgeous and ready for a cuddle any time you are. Their ease with and love of children is legendary and their big hearts are just par for the course.

 Cool Cat Facts...
Ragdoll kittens need plenty of rest to grow into magnificent 20 pound plus felines. In fact, top breeders will never disturb sleeping kittens for fear
                           of inhibiting their growth.                                                                        

Is A Ragdoll Cat Right For You?

The Ragdoll cat is recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), the world's largest cat organization. It is a relatively popular pure-bred or "pedigreed" domestic cat breed. These cats are probably the most laid-back breed available. They are sweet, affectionate and love being hugged and handled. They have very little natural aggression and often will not defend themselves against other animals, so, despite their great size, this is a cat that is safest indoors and does just fine, even in small apartments. This is a special breed that is hard to compare to others, you just have to meet one. The Ragdoll cat comes in three patterns,pointed, pointed with white mitts, or parti-color, which always has a unique v-shaped white marking on the forehead. Ragdolls always have blue eyes. The coat is soft and semi-long with a limited undercoat which results in less sheddingand less matting than many other long-haired cats. Moderate grooming is still desired, but not as critical. These are big, bulky-sized cats that have few breed-related health issues. Because it is amazingly sweet and desires interaction the Ragdoll cat is a superb family cat that loves considerate children, mild-mannered dogs and other cats. They form strong bonds and truly enjoy being close. They don't like to be left alone and can get a little depressed without some company.

Ragdoll Cat Breed Standards

Head Shape: The head is large and well-formed, as wide as it is long, well rounded and proportionate to body size. The nose should be neither broad nor pointed, and in proportion with the rest of the head. Medium size ears, slightly rounded at the tip, and broad at the base. Eyes are large, wide and bright blue in color. 
Body and Tail: The body is large and long, equally as wide at the hips as at the shoulders. Legs are long and heavily boned, with large round feet. Feet and legs are feathered. The tail is long and well-furred, like a huge plume.
Coat: The coat should be medium to long, plush and soft, standing well away from the body.
Pattern: Points on the mask, tail, ears and legs should be the same shade and well defined. They should all be of the same shade. The most desirable white face marking is in the shape of an inverted "V" from muzzle to forehead. Ideally, all four feet should be solid white with clear edges, and darker points separating the white foot color from the lighter body color, whether the cat has just white paws, or the white extends up the legs as a "stocking".
Overall Appearance: This should be a very large, tall, impressive cat, with a large round head and brilliant blue eyes. Full coat, large bones, and a relaxed, happy attitude complete the package.

Inside Cat or Outside Cat?

Wondering if you should allow your cat to go outside unsupervised? Well there are definitely some pure breeds that should never be outside cats. Hairless breeds like the Sphynx are extremely vulnerable and should always be supervised outdoors. Docile breeds like the Burmese may not be able to defend themselves. All cats allowed outdoors are exposed to diseases and parasites that they would not otherwise encounter. Fred Flintstone put his saber-tooth out every night, but the cat jumped right back in the window - and he was a saber-tooth! Still, most of us feel a little envy when we see our domestic companion out on some high perch, sniffing the breeze of liberty, and there is no doubt that cats love their freedom. So what do YOU think ....Inside Cat or Outside Cat? Comment Here...

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