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Ragdoll

    Many stories circulate about the Ragdoll.  We've heard people say it's the rarest breed; they can only be found in one location in the United States; they are the most dog-like cat; they are the most expensive breed of cat. The Ragdoll was developed in the 1960s by Ann Baker, a California breeder who bred a white longhaired female with Siamese markings to other longhaired cats with Siamese markings. By carefully controlling the breeding program, Baker was able to produce cats that had the physical characteristics she desired, as well as the temperament and personality too. 

Oh You Beautiful Doll

    Ragdolls are beautiful cats with big  blue eyes. They have light-colored bodies with darker "points" of fur on the tail, legs, ears and face.   Within this rather broad color spectrum there are four acceptable patterns of the Ragdoll: Pointeds, Vans, Mitteds and Bi-colors.  The Pointed is perhaps the most common and has classic Siamese-type markings. 

    Ragdolls are rather slow to mature, reaching their full size at between three and four years of age.  They get their full coat by about age two.  An adult male can weigh 20 pounds. The females are somewhat smaller. 

A Loving Temperament

    Ragdolls are loving and lovable cats. They make a wonderful addition to a family with children and/or other pets and are gentle and playful. They are careful to keep their claws sheathed, although even the most docile cat, if provoked, will try to protect itself.  Because they are good with people, some Ragdolls are used in "pet therapy" at hospitals and nursing homes. (If you are interested in such a program, contact your local hospital to see if they have one.) 

    As has been mentioned, Ragdolls are said to be the most "doglike" of cats.  Some will follow their owners around the house and they will even greet you at the door.  If you are the lucky owner of one of  these beautiful cats, you already know that they love to cuddle, preferring to curl up in your lap than on your furniture. Their meow is melodic and quiet, in keeping with their temperament. 

    Ragdolls require little in the way of grooming.  An occasional brushing is all that is needed to keep their fluffy coats in top shape.  They also don't shed much and don't often get hairballs, something that can be rather common with other longhairs. 

    The prices for Ragdolls vary depending on their bloodlines and markings. If you're looking to purchase a Ragdoll, get the name of a reputable breeder from your vet or a friend who has one, or contact the Cat Fanciers' Association.  Their website is:  www.cfainc.org.  There are also rescues that specialize in specific breeds. Check out www.petfinder.org for one near you.

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