Ragdoll – Breed#33

Introduction

The Ragdoll is among the hugely popular feline breeds across the globe, with its amazing blue eyes, long textured semi-longhaired fur, and a well-noted docile character. Being the so-called puppy-like cat, the Ragdoll is relaxed, warm, and very adjustable, and thus would ideally fit into any family, single or elderly.

Through this comprehensive guide, we shall get to learn all about Ragdolls, including their history, character, how to take care of them in relation to grooming and health, as well as their personality aspects. If you are toying with the idea of adopting one, or just want to read more about this docile cat, you are at the right site.

History and Origins of the Ragdoll

The Beginning in California

The ragdoll breed as a breed was developed by a woman known as Ann Baker in the 1960s at Riverside in California. She also selectively bred long-haired house cats, such as a white Angora-type cat named Josephine, having a quiet temperament, and also very beautiful to look at.

Josephine carried kittens with a very loving and easy-going manner. These were the children who became the base of the Ragdoll breed. Baker named this breed the term Ragdoll because of the way the kittens used to become limp in your hands when held (just like a ragdoll toy would).

The breed used to be very controlled by Ann Baker when she conducted her breeding program, but now the breed has been further advanced and improved through other breeders. In 1933, the Ragdoll was officially recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA). Since then, the breed has gained popularity.

Physical Characteristics

Large and Striking

Ragdolls are also characterized by large size, soft coat, and big blue eyes. They belong to one of the biggest domestic cat breeds.

• Size: The males measure 15 20 pounds and the females measure 10-15 pounds. Others can even surpass these weights.
• Body: Tall, muscular, with a massive chest and well-built physique.
• Eyes: They are always blue, of an oval shape, light or dark sapphire.
• Coat: Silky, semi-long fur which is soft and luxurious. Although it is quite long, the coat is surprisingly low-maintenance.
• Color Patterns: The ragdolls are available in various patterns, which include colorpoint, mitted, and bicolor. Some of the common colors are seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, cream, and red.

Personality and Temperament

Docile, Affectionate, and People-Oriented

What is so special is the temperament of the Ragdoll. As they say, these cats are rather well-known as they are gentle, calm, and laid-back. They also like to associate with human beings and can be described as being dog-like in the sense that they are loyal enough and follow them around the rooms.

• Affectionate: Ragdolls are famous affectionate in that they seek to be cuddled into laps and lie alongside their people.
• Social: They usually all along well with children, dogs, and other cats. Their placid nature is a good reason why they are ideal in multi-pet homes.
• Playful: Ragdolls are not hyperactive; nevertheless, they love playing. The best ways of keeping them kept at it are feather toys, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders.
• Tolerant: Ragdolls have an extremely high tolerance to handling and do not mind being picked up or even being in someone’s arms or being hand-carried like a baby, as some revel in being cuddled.

Ideal for First-Time Cat Owners

They have a relaxed character; hence, Ragdolls are one of the best suggestions as a first-time cat owner or someone seeking a cat that cannot raise their stress levels too high.

Check Out: Pixie Bob Cat – Breed#32.

Grooming and Maintenance

Surprisingly Low-Maintenance for Long Fur

Thus, Ragdolls lack an undercoat; however, their hair is long and smooth, and so they will probably not become tangled, unlike other long-haired breeds. That is why grooming is relatively easy.

• Brushing: Brush your Ragdoll 1–2 times a week to remove loose hairs and reduce shedding.
• Bathing: Not typically necessary unless the cat gets particularly dirty.
• Eyes and Ears: Clear the discharge around the eyes and examine the ears weekly in case of wax removal or dirt.
• Nail Trimming: Frequent nail cuts will make them more comfortable and will stop them from scratching.

Ragdolls are rather particular pets concerning taking care of their own bodies, and, accordingly, the grooming needs are not so obstructive compared to the of other long-haired cats.

Feeding and Nutrition

Balanced Diet for a Big Cat

Since they are a big breed and the Ragdolls take up to four years to grow up, they need good quality and nutrient-rich food that would maintain their healthy growth.

• Protein-Rich Foods: Look for foodstuffs where the first ingredient is real meat.
• Portion Control: Ragdolls like to be laid back and without any proper care or sheer amount of food, they are inclined to become overweight.
• Hydration: Keep water available to your Ragdoll at all times. Hydration can also be done with wet food.

It is worth asking your veterinarian about your individual feeding program, and this is especially necessary in the case of the kittenhood stage and the old age of your pet.

Health and Lifespan

Generally Healthy, but Watch for Certain Conditions

Ragdolls are generally healthy cats, just as there exist some cases where they are likely to be affected by some genetic or breed-related disorders. These include:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy affects many cats, and Ragdolls, too. Responsible breeders test out HCM.
• Bladder Stones: The ragdolls might develop circumstances in the urinary tract, which is why hydration and diet are a must.
• Obesity: Difference in temperament- They spend too often in a relaxed state, hence tend to get fat unless properly exercised.

Lifespan

With good care, Ragdolls can live up to 12 to 17 years and even more.

Activity and Environment

Indoor Cats by Nature

The majority of breeders and vets declare that Ragdolls should live in the house only. The fact that they are naive and gentle has not helped them in coping with outdoor predators, such as traffic or predators, or harsh weather.

With that said, indoor life does not imply a dull life. Provide:

• Cat trees or perches.
• Interactive toys and tunnels.
• Scratching posts.
• Regular playtime with their human companions.

Other owners teach their Ragdolls to wear a leash or a cat stroller-giving them a glimpse of the outside without any danger of being lost.

Living With a Ragdoll

A Perfect Companion Cat

The Ragdoll is a great cat, providing those people who want affection but not too neediness in their cat. These cats can fit into diverse living conditions- it does not matter whether you stay in a small apartment or a big house.

They’re often great with:

• Children: They are also tolerant and, thus, they fit well in families that have respectful kids.
• Seniors: These are people with a calm temper; they require being around other people, thus, they are suitable for retirees.
• Other Pets: Ragdolls generally receive along with other pets, cats, and dogs.

How to Find a Ragdoll Cat

Choose Reputable Breeders

When you want to purchase a Ragdoll kitten, opt to buy one whose breeder is focused on health and temperament. The responsible breeders will:

• Test for genetic diseases like HCM.
• Provide vaccination and veterinary records.
• Offer socialized, healthy kittens.
• Allow you to meet the parents or view the cattery.

Depending on pedigree, location, and being either pet-quality or show-quality, ragdoll kittens typically range between 800$ and 2500$.

Adoption and Rescue

There are also ragdoll rescue and breed-specific organisations. Ragdolls or Ragdoll mixes can sometimes be found in shelters or in one of the breed adoption agencies. The costs of such adoptions are also normally very cheap as compared to purchasing from a breeder.

Conclusion

Ragdoll is a unique breed. They have blue eyes, long coats, and are gentle in nature, and it comes as no surprise that they are always among the most popular breeds of the cat species worldwide. Being an experienced cat lover or a fresh cat-stranger, the Ragdoll is the meaning of unconditional love, peaceful companionship, and a hint of a sophisticated appearance in your daily routine.

Their gentle and flexible character qualifies them to live in almost all homes. With little grooming requirements, good nutrition, loads of love and attention, your Ragdoll will give you back years of faithful friendship.

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