Ragdoll 101 - Cat Breed Information

Sep 17th 2010

Cat Breed: Ragdoll

Appearance: According to the Ragdoll Fancier's Club International (RFCI) , the ragdoll is a fairly large breed of cat with medium-long hair, a proportionate build, and brilliant blue eyes. Male ragdolls generally tip the scales at 15 to 20 pounds, with females ranging from about 10 to 15. The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) describes the ragdoll's body as well-balanced, with no extreme or exaggerated features. Known for their silky, rabbit-like fur, ragdolls comes in six colors: seal, blue, lilac, chocolate, cream, and red. Ragdolls are a pointed breed, meaning the fur at their "points" (ears, tail, legs, and face) tend to be darker than the rest of their bodies. The breed standard recognizes four distinct patterns: bi-color, van, mitted, and colorpoint.

History: The ragdoll was developed in the 1960s by breeder Ann Baker of Riverside, Calif., according to the CFA. Oddly enough, the breed originated almost entirely out of cats Baker found roaming around her neighborhood, crossed with a few of her own. The basis of the breed began with a longhaired white cat named Josephine bred with other cats Baker selected for their looks and temperaments. Apparently, the unique temperament of Josephine's offspring inspired other breeders to work from her line. The ragdoll was first recognized by the now-defunct NCFA in 1965, according to the RFCI.