Last Updated on February 26, 2024 by Aftab Tariq
Ragdoll Cat a delightful and affectionate feline, is known for its easygoing nature. Ideal for cozying up on laps, Ragdoll Cats earn their name by going completely relaxed when receiving pets. Despite their large size, there’s no need to be intimidated – their massive blue eyes and hearty purrs reveal their gentle and friendly disposition.
Ragdoll Cats thrive in social settings, making them a perfect match for lively households with many people and other amicable pets. Discover more about the Ragdoll Cat, including their Traits, care tips, history, and more.
History of Ragdoll Cat
In the 1960s, in California, a woman named Ann Baker wanted to create a special cat. She called it the Ragdoll Cat. Ann started by bringing together a white cat named Josephine with other cats she had or found. After a few tries, she succeeded in making the first Ragdoll Cats. People liked them because they had soft fur that didn’t get tangled, were big, and had friendly personalities.
The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) began keeping records of Ragdoll Cats in 1993. Since then, Ragdoll Cats have stayed one of the most loved cat breeds registered by the CFA.
Appearance of Ragdoll Cat
Meet the Ragdoll Cat, a grand and beautifully furry feline. This cat has a long and strong body with a wide chest, short neck, and sturdy legs hidden beneath its silky, dense, and semi-long to long-haired coat.
The tail is long and fluffy, and when the Ragdoll Cat grows up, it gets fluffy trousers on its hind legs and a majestic ruff around its neck and throat. This makes the Ragdoll Cat look really impressive and luxurious.
Ragdoll Cat Personality
The Ragdoll Cat is like a laid-back friend, always calm and friendly. People love having a Ragdoll Cat at home because they are not only stunning but also very affectionate. Many people can’t resist getting more than one Ragdoll Cat because of their beautiful looks and gentle, relaxed nature.
Ragdoll Cats are curious and like to be part of your daily routine. They might want to sit on your books or papers or just enjoy the sunshine while you work in the garden. They are not really into strenuous activities but prefer to be by your side, making them great companions.
There was talk for a while that Ragdoll Cats were super floppy and felt less pain, so people thought they’d be great toys for kids. But that’s not true. Ragdoll Cats are not overly floppy, and they feel pain like any other cat. They don’t like being treated like toys by kids or anyone else. It’s important to treat them with care and respect.
Ragdoll Cat Traits
Ragdoll cat size is pretty cool – these cats are not just good-looking but also on the bigger side. It takes them about four years to grow to their full size, which is usually around 15 pounds. Ragdolls are super friendly and make friends with everyone. They love sitting on your lap, getting belly rubs, and are really cuddly. Even though they don’t need lots of playtime, they enjoy spending lazy moments snuggling with their human friends.
Ragdoll cats are great companions for grown-ups and kids who are respectful. They can also get along with other pets in the house if introduced properly. Overall, they just want to be close to their families and get lots of attention.
Diet of Ragdoll Cat
Ask your vet to create a diet plan for your Ragdoll Cat, considering its age and activity level, to prevent obesity. Wet or canned foods are a good choice as they contain water, which helps prevent urinary problems. Ensure you provide the correct portion size and avoid leaving food out all day. Overeating can lead to obesity in your Ragdoll Cat, increasing the risk of conditions like diabetes.
Health Problems of Ragdoll Cat
Ragdoll Cats, just like many other big cat breeds, can sometimes have health issues.
Issues related to weight: Taking care of your Ragdoll cat’s weight is important. You should measure the amount of food they eat each day to make sure they don’t eat too much. Also, don’t give them too many treats; limit it to 10% of their daily calories. Playing with your cat regularly is a fun way to help them stay in good shape. Even though chubby cats might look cute, it’s not good for their health.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: Ragdoll cats, like any other breed, can develop a heart disease called Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). This disease makes the heart muscle thicker. To diagnose HCM, a vet might use an echocardiogram, but it can only be done after the cat has developed the disease. Genetic testing can help breeders avoid mating cats with HCM, but it’s not a guarantee, and there’s no cure once a cat has HCM.
Stones in the bladder: Bladder stones can be really painful for cats, including Ragdoll cats. Signs of bladder stones include blood in the urine, crying in the litter box, difficulty urinating, or going outside the litter box. To prevent these issues, encourage your Ragdoll cat to drink plenty of fresh water, and make sure they have regular checkups with the vet.
Care of Ragdoll Cat
Ragdoll cats are not too hard to take care of. They don’t need a lot of exercise or grooming like some other cats. But, to keep them happy and healthy, there are some things you should do.
1. Grooming: Ragdolls have a smooth coat, which means it doesn’t get tangled easily. Still, it’s good to brush them at least twice a week to prevent any knots. Like all cats, ragdolls need their nails trimmed. After a nail trim, they might want to scratch more, so give them a good scratching post.
2. Shedding: Ragdolls don’t shed a lot because they don’t have a thick undercoat. But they can still produce allergens that some people might be allergic to. So, they are not considered hypoallergenic.
3. Exercise: Ragdolls are social and moderately energetic cats. They like to play with toys, especially interactive ones. It’s best to play together to keep them active, maintain a healthy weight, prevent boredom, and strengthen the bond with your cat. You can also use a puzzle feeder for their meals to keep them mentally stimulated.
Breed Overview of Ragdoll Cat
- Traits: Amiable, laid-back, affectionate, sociable
- Lifespan: 17 years
- Ragdoll cat origin: California
- Weight: 20 lbs
- Length:Â 40 inches
- Coat Length: Long-haired
- Ragdoll cat colors: Chocolate, red, seal, blue, lilac, and cream
- Coat Patterns: Color point, bicolor, mitted, van
- Eye Color: Blue
- Hypoallergenic: No
Pros:
- Sociable, friendly, and ideal for families.
- Affectionate and enjoy cuddling.
- Playful, yet not overly energetic.
Cons:
- Not hypoallergenic, so they may cause allergies.
- Susceptible to urinary and heart problems.
- Purebred Ragdolls can be costly to purchase.
Where to Buy or Adopt a Ragdoll
Before you decide to bring home a Ragdoll cat, it’s a good idea to learn about the breeder and the cat breed. The breeder can help you understand if a Ragdoll cat is the right fit for you. You can start by checking The Cat Fanciers Association for a list of breeders. If you’re buying from a breeder, be prepared to spend between $400 to $2500.
If you want to adopt instead, look around at local adoption places. You might find a Ragdoll cat in need of a new home. Ragdoll Rescue USA/International is also a place to explore if you’re considering adoption.
The Purebred Ragdoll cat price can vary but is generally high, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Look for Ragdoll kittens for sale and find your new furry friend!
Note: For more details and information about Ragdoll cats, check out HarpersAtelier. We’re here to make understanding these lovely feline friends easy and enjoyable for you!
If you’re interested in bringing home a Ragdoll companion, explore reputable breeders offering Ragdoll kittens for sale Netherlands to ensure a healthy and happy addition to your family.
Frequently Asked Question
How to Identify a Ragdoll Cat?
Ragdoll cats, with their distinctive blue eyes, large paws, and semi-long fur, often have a predominantly white coat with beautiful brown accents on the head and tail—a characteristic known as a point coat.
For those seeking a Ragdoll cat brown coat or a black Ragdoll cat coat, variations within the breed offer a range of captivating color patterns, adding to the allure of these charming felines.
What are Some Ragdoll Cat Names?
Choosing a name for your Ragdoll cat can be a delightful task. Here are some suggestions for Ragdoll cat names:
- Bluebell
- Whiskers
- Luna
- Oliver
- Bella
- Simba
- Mocha
- Sapphire
- Gizmo
- Willow
Remember to select a name that resonates with your cat’s personality and characteristics.
What is So Special About Ragdoll Cats?
Ragdoll cats are special for their calm and gentle temperament, striking appearance with color point markings, low shedding, sociable nature, intelligence, and adaptability to various living situations. They are known for forming strong bonds with their owners and are often described as puppy-like in their behavior.
Are Ragdolls Expensive Cats?
Yes, Ragdoll cats are typically considered expensive, with prices ranging from several hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on factors like pedigree and breeder reputation.
Do Ragdoll Cats like to be Held?
Yes, Ragdoll cats are generally affectionate and often enjoy being held, going limp when picked up. However, individual personalities vary, so it’s important to consider each cat’s preferences and approach them with gentleness and respect for comfort.
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