Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is a cat breed noted for its large size, semi-long, silky coat and bright blue eyes. However, its most distinctive feature is the spots on its face and other parts of its body. Known for their docile and affectionate temperament, they are very affectionate and loyal cats.

General details

Ragdoll cats are large in size, with males typically weighing between 5.5 and 9 kilograms and females between 4.5 and 7 kilograms. They are approximately 25 to 30 centimeters tall and have a body length of about 35 to 45 centimeters, not counting the tail. But they can reach up to 40 centimeters in height and 120 centimeters in length including the tail. Under normal conditions, they can live between 12 and 17 years. This breed is recognized by associations such as the International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA).

Breed history in brief

The Ragdoll has its origins in the United States, where it was developed by Ann Baker in the 1960s in California. The breed began with a white cat named Josephine, who possessed an extremely docile temperament and distinctive physical characteristics. Although both Josephine and the males she was crossed with had no breed record, it is believed that she was a white Persian and the males were Burmese-type cats. Baker began a selective breeding program to develop animals with similar temperaments and the characteristic "pointed" coat. He also eschewed traditional cat associations, creating his own registry and imposing strict rules. The association still exists, but since his death it has lost much of its strength. The Ragdoll has gained popularity and has become one of the most beloved breeds worldwide, thanks in large part to the extreme relaxation it has when caught.

Breed characteristics

The Ragdoll is a large breed with a muscular and robust body. Their eyes are large, oval and deep blue, giving them a sweet, piercing expression. The ears are medium-sized, with rounded tips and a slight forward twist. The Ragdoll`s coat is semi-long, dense and silky, with a soft sheen. Typical coat colors include point seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red and cream, with bicolor, mitted and colorpoint patterns. The pups are born white and do not show their definitive coloring until they are 3-4 years old. They usually have a ruff. Ragdolls are known for their calm and affectionate temperament, and their tendency to relax completely when held. Hence the comparison to ragdolls. They are very sociable cats that enjoy human companionship and get along well with other pets.

Common health problems

The Ragdoll is generally a healthy breed, except for a predisposition to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, common in many cat breeds. It is a breed not prone to health problems.