Ragdolls Loving, Gentle Giants

Ragdolls are a newer breed of cat, one which originated in the United States in the 1960s. Ann Baker, a woman in Riverside, California, originated the breed, which has Persians and Birmans as its progenitors. In fact, the origins of the breed can be traced back to Ann Baker's original breeding cats, named Daddy Warbucks, Fugianna, and Buckwheat. The result was a large, gentle, cuddly cat, with long hair like Persians, but who require far less grooming from their human owners.

As a breed, Ragdolls are large cats. In fact, its reported that the Guinness Book of World Records once named a Ragdoll as the largest domestic cat. Typically, males range from 12 to 20 pounds, while the females are slightly smaller, ranging from 10 to 15 pounds when fully grown. These cats generally reach their full size at about four years of age, and are muscular and elegant, though they tend to have shorter legs. In coloring, they resemble Siamese cats and have similar, pointed markings, although, in contrast, they have rounded ears. Ragdoll kittens, however, are born without markings, which develop slowly over a period of about three years and continue to darken at the cat ages. Their eyes are always blue and theyve been described as having sweet expressions by their owners and admirers.

Generally, their personalities are wonderful. As a breed, Ragdolls arent aggressive, tending rather toward a laid-back, comfortable demeanor. These cats are generally kept strictly as indoor pets, though they can be trained to go for walks on a leash. Ragdolls are intelligent and can usually be trained by using rewards.

In addition, Ragdolls are real people cats. They like to be held and will relax in your arms, flopping around much like a toy rag doll. And, like your canine companions, theyll greet you at the door and follow you throughout the house. Unlike most cats, theyll come when called and may even play fetch with you. Theyre good with children and other pets, so if youre looking for a very active or verbal cat, a Ragdoll may be a good choice.

Ragdolls have long, silky coats, and their fur is so soft that its often described as being like rabbit fur. And while they do a good job of maintaining their coats, youll still need to brush or comb them on a regular basis to remove any loose hair or tangles. Because their coats require less care, Ragdolls are a favorite among people who like the look of long-haired cats, but who dont want the time commitment of caring for a Persian. Matting is generally not a problem with Ragdoll cats.

And, unlike many breeds of cats, Ragdolls dont seem to have any inherited genetic medical conditions, although its always a good idea to ask the breeder from whom youre considering purchasing a cat about the health of their lines.

So, if youre looking for a gentle cat that will enjoy and seek out your company and require a relatively small commitment to grooming, a Ragdoll may just be the perfect choice for you.