RagDoll Cat Breed Profile

Ragdoll Cat Breed Profile


Ragdoll History

The Ragdoll breed is believed to have originated around 1965. Anne Baker is reputed to be the original breeder. There are many different stories as to the breed origin of these cats but it is thought to have started with a white Persian and Angora mix cat called "Josephine". Kittens born from Josephine appeared to have a very gentle disposition and a loving nature, magnificent blue eyes and non matting fur. They have a tendency to hang limply in your arms when picked up. Hence the name Ragdoll.


Ragdoll Appearance

The overall picture of the Ragdoll cat is that of a large muscular body, especially in males, large blue eyes, with an aesthetically pleasing solid head and body. Their coat comes in two lengths, one is short the other, medium/long. Both coats are soft and luxurious to touch, similar to that of rabbit fur.

They are a 'floppy' cat as the name Ragdoll suggests and they tend to go limp when you pick them up.

The Ragdoll's fur is non matting so they require very little maintenance and are generally a very healthy breed with no known major health problems.

Ragdoll Colours and Patterns

Currently the main colours in the Ragdoll are Seal, Blue, Chocolate, Lilac, Red and Cream. They also come in Tortie and Tabby (Lynx) Patterns. Chocolate and Lilac are a lot more difficult to acquire.

Bicolour - white inverted "V" in the facial mask, white legs, feet, ruff and stomach, point coloured ears and tail.

Colourpoint - facial mask, ears, feet, tail and nose. A colourpoint has no white.

Mitted - White in front paws "gloves" and halfway up in back legs. Chin and chest are white and stomach has a white strip. Sometimes a mitted Ragdoll may also have a white blaze/snip on the nose.