Ragdoll Cat Breed Profile: Everything You Need to Know

Ragdolls are one of the most adorable cat breeds renowned for having kind dispositions. In fact, the breed became the most popular cat breed for three consecutive years, i.e., 2019,2020, and 2021, in one of the world’s largest cat registries of pedigree cats- CFA. With their soft fluffy coats and blue eyes, the breed often resembles teddy bears. This dog-like breed is very friendly and loves human company, making them great companions.

History

The ragdoll breed was first discovered in the 1960s by a breeder named Ann Baker in Riverside, California. Josephine, a white Angora Persian type queen cat, had liter by Burmese and Birman sire males. The breeding produced cats of significant size, semi-coats, and equable temperament.

This breeder produced the cat breed with unusual temperamental characteristics that were highly likable. She developed the Ragdoll breed by choosing individuals who fit the criteria for her breeding program regarding appearance, temperament, and other traits.

Though, the Cat Fanciers Association began registering cats in 1993. But it wasn’t acknowledged until 2000. Nowadays, Several cat registries recognize the breed, such as the American Cat Fanciers Association and The International Cat Association. 

Appearance

Generally, Ragdoll cats have big, lengthy bodies than other cats. They have long tails and thick coats and are considered to be a little heavier than other cats. Although they have medium-sized head, their face appears larger thanks to their fur. Their medium-sized ears complete the appearance of the triangle face by being placed on the sides of the head. Strong and lengthy legs are present. The oval eyes are blue, and the chin is prominent.

Intelligence

Ragdoll cats are commonly regarded to be sluggish and docile, but don’t be fooled by their cuddly appearance – these cats are actually quite bright! While they are not as energetic as some other breeds, they are quick learners and can be trained easily.

They are affectionate and kind, and they make excellent companions. They are also incredibly social animals who enjoy being near people. A Ragdoll cat may be the right option if you want a laid-back, loving, and intelligent cat!

Size and weight 

Ragdoll cats are one of the largest cat breeds, with adults typically weighing between 15 and 20 pounds. They are also one of the longest-bodied cats, measuring two to three feet from nose to tail. While Ragdolls are not the heaviest cats on the market, their large size and muscular build make them appear much larger than they are.

Ragdoll Cat Size: How Big Do Ragdolls Get?

Characteristics and Temperament

The Ragdoll breed is a domestic cat known for its obedient and calm temperament. They are one of the most popular cat breeds, and it’s easy to see why. They are gentle, affectionate, and have a laid-back personality that makes them perfect for families with children or other pets. Due to this, they are also known as “floppy cats.”

Normally, they are non-aggressive and simple to train. Similarly, they are very sociable cats. Both people and other cats are welcome in their company. Typically, caring for a ragdoll cat is not challenging. They generally require little maintenance, and potty training is commonly very simple. Ragdoll cats are excellent at masking their feelings, except when scared or upset. Besides that, they are very easy to care for cat breeds.  

If you’re having a bad day and want a hug or cuddle, then the ragdoll cat is there for you. Similarly, they are the best lap cats.

You may even dunk your fingers in their long, silky fur when giving ragdolls a cuddle because they are known to be friendlier with their owners than other cats are. Suppose you enjoy having someone wait for you after a hard day at work. Then guess what? They’ll be waiting for you at the doorstep. They will even follow you around and respond to your calls.

Also Read: Are Ragdoll Cats Hypoallergenic?

Colors and Pattern

Although they are all born white, after a few weeks, they start to change color and pattern. Tortie, lynx, colorpoint, and mitted can all be found in the ragdoll pattern. Blue, lilac, red (flame), seal, and chocolate are some ragdoll colors. Likewise, cream, lilac, and chocolate color ragdolls are the rarest of all ragdoll colors, while blue ragdolls are the most common.

Cost

A Ragdoll cat or kitten typically costs between $500 and $5000. Breeder quality may cost between $1500 and $2500, show quality could cost between $1200 and $2500, and pet quality could cost between $500 and $1500.The actual price will vary depending on several variables, including size, color, pattern, quality, and breed standard. 

Ragdoll cat Diet Plan

There isn’t a single “best” diet for ragdoll cats, which is important to know if you’re considering adopting one. Although ragdolls frequently consume diets rich in meat and low in carbohydrates, this does not imply that all ragdolls must do the same.

If you want to give your ragdoll a balanced diet, you might want to think about giving them food from various sources. Your cat will get the nutrients they require in this way and won’t get tired of its food.

But it’s best if the diet is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. This will help your cat to stay healthy and active. It is also essential that your cat gets plenty of water to drink. So, don’t forget to fill their water bowl frequently.

Ragdoll Cat Food Guide

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What Type of Food should be avoided by Ragdolls?

Some kinds of food shouldn’t be given to ragdoll cats as it can make them sick. So, it can sometimes be problematic when you don’t know what to give. So, to avoid that, we have provided you with a list of food types you should not feed your cat.

Ragdoll cats should avoid the following food habits such as:

• Feeding on only dried foods
• Highly processed or artificial foods
• High level of carbohydrate
• Nothing rich in salt
• Pulses and lentils
• Grains
• Tuna in cans with brine
• Foods hard to chew,
• Too much surgery food.

Health Issues

Though ragdolls are known for being healthy, they are still prone to some health issues. But, the most common disease that is found in ragdolls are:

Heart Illness – Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy,

This is a disease where heart walls thicken, which makes a ragdoll:

• severe coughing
• breathing difficulty
• vomiting
• flaccidity in the limbs

If left untreated, it could result in heart failure or even the death of a ragdoll. So, It’s ideal that you get your kitty regularly tested by your veterinarian so that they can be treated in the early stage.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

This disease is caused by intestinal inflammation, where the gastrointestinal tract becomes inflamed. This could cause a ragdoll to:

• Vomit
• Blood in the stool
• lethargy
• Constipation, or
• Diarrhea

For treatment, veterinarians usually recommend dietary changes with different medications for inflammations.

Polycystic Kidney Disease

Because of the fewer kidney cells than other cats, ragdolls are sensitive to developing kidney diseases, especially polycystic kidney diseases (PKD). So, to find out whether or not your cat has this issue. Let’s take a look at the symptoms:

• Malaise
• drinking more water than usual
• frequent urination
• Weakness

To not let it worsen, you need to lessen the protein intake of your feline friend.  There is a treatment option for this condition: dexamethasone, which aids in preventing the growth of polycystic kidneys.

Ragdoll Living Needs

It’s simple to see why Ragdoll cats are one of the most popular cat breeds. They’re lovely, loving, and excellent companions for you and your family. However, like all cats, they have specific needs that must be met to be happy and healthy. So, here are some recommendations for what your ragdoll cat requires to live a long and happy life.

Grooming and Hygiene Care

Ragdoll cats should be brushed at least twice a week using a soft brush designed specifically for them. Their long fur can become matted and tangled if not brushed regularly or at least twice a week. In addition, Ragdolls need to be bathed every few weeks to keep their fur clean and free of dirt and debris.

When giving your Ragdoll a bath, use a mild shampoo made specifically for cats. Avoid getting water in their ears or eyes, and be careful not to scrub too hard – let the shampoo do its job. After the bath, dry your Ragdoll thoroughly with a towel or hairdryer set on low heat.

Maintaining the health and happiness of your Ragdoll cat requires proper hygiene care. You can ensure that your furry buddy stays tidy, cozy, and in good shape with a little time and effort.

How much do ragdolls shed?

Nutritious Food and Water

A ragdoll cat’s diet should consist of premium, nourishing food, and clean water. As large breeds of cats may have different nutritional requirements than smaller breeds, look for meals specially made for Ragdolls or other large kinds of cats. Table scraps and other human foods should not be given to your Ragdoll as they can upset their sensitive stomachs and result in health issues. Offer your Ragdoll fresh water throughout the day and keep their food bowl in a clean and accessible location.

Vet Care

Ragdoll cats require the same basic vaccinations as any other cat, including rabies, feline distemper, feline leukemia, and other health issues. They should also be spayed or neutered young to avoid health issues later in life. To preserve their health, regular checkups and dental cleanings are crucial.

As with any pet, choosing a reputed and qualified veterinarian, you feel comfortable with is important to ensure the best possible care for your Ragdoll cat.

Attention

These cats are known for being very attention-seeking and will often follow their owners around the house or meow for attention. While they may not be the most active of cats, ragdolls still enjoy a good game and cuddle.

7 Tips to Keep Your Ragdoll Safe and Cool in Summer

Cat Toys

Although ragdoll cats have a dog-like disposition and appreciate people, they do not enjoy playing like other dogs. They don’t play fetch by running around with a ball or stick in their mouths. They would want to relax while taking in the breeze blowing through the windows. However, that does not imply that you should avoid playing. Ragdolls enjoy playing with their pet owners. Also, they would love to play with toys and scratching posts.

Ragdoll Kitten Care Tips

Do you want a Ragdoll kitten or has your mother cat given birth, but you don’t know what to do with the kittens? So, to help you. We give you some tips to consider when caring for your kitten.

• Provide the adorable ragdoll kittens space for getting to know you.
• As kittens are tiny and dependent, you should not leave them alone.
• Give them kitten toys to keep them engaged and active.
• Keep a consistent feeding schedule.
• It is best to keep them indoors to keep them safe and comfortable.
• Veterinary care is very important for the ragdoll kitten since they are very fragile and small. 

Hong long can a Ragdoll live?

Ragdolls live the longest of any cat breed. Ragdolls have an average lifespan of 15 to 25 years. While this is a relatively long life span for a cat, keep in mind that depending on their health and genetics, individual cats can live much longer or shorter lives.

Similarly, there is also a record of a ragdoll living up to 38 years old. Ragdolls are also a fairly healthy breed with few genetic health problems. So, proper care, a healthy diet, and regular vaccination can increase their life span.

Ragdoll Breeding: When and How?

The best age for breeding is between 4 and 10 years old. Ragdolls reach maturity and are most active around this age. And the best time to breed them is during the spring or summer. This is due to the warmer weather and increased daylight, which allows the kittens to get enough exercise and socialization.

However, before you start your ragdoll breeding process, you must know that you will need a lot of expenses and patience since this is a great responsibility and could give your cats permanent health issues if neglected. Thus, you must be very careful.

You must first get a queen and sire from reputable breeders. Since the breeders are experts in this area, it is crucial that you have a solid relationship with them in case you have any questions about how to breed the cats safely. Further, thoroughly discuss the costs and complications involved in the breeding process with your veterinarian.

How and Where to find a Ragdoll cat?

There are many shelters, pet shops, and breeders around the country. But finding the right one can be very hard. If you want to adopt, it is best to look in the cat shelter. Likewise, if you’re interested in buying a high-quality cat, it’s best to purchase a feline friend from a pet shop or breeder.

Similarly, online is the best place to start looking for a Ragdoll cat or kitten. Many breeders specialize in Ragdoll cats, and you can find a wide variety of them there.

When you find a breeder you like, take some time to read through the cat profiles they have. This will give you a good idea of how each cat is, allowing you to find one that suits your personality and lifestyle. You can also ask any ragdoll pet owners you know.

• What’s the Right Age to adopt Ragdoll?
• Simple Steps for Introducing Your Ragdoll Kitten to Your Other Cats

How to find Reputable Ragdoll Breeders?

There are many Ragdoll breeders worldwide, but only a few are considered truly reputable. A good Ragdoll breeder will be well-versed in the breed and capable of producing healthy, well-adjusted kittens.

It is critical to conduct research when looking for a Ragdoll breeder. You should seek recommendations from other Ragdoll owners and breeders who are members of reputable organizations such as the Cat Fanciers Association or the International Cat Association.

Nowadays, Ragdoll breeders have their own websites online. As a result, there are a plethora of websites that offer information about their cattery, breeders, cats, and kittens. So, you can look up information there. If you are still dissatisfied, you can visit the breeder to see how the cats and kittens are cared for.

Further, if you are in Michigan, go through our list of reputable breeders.

Ragdoll Cat Comparison With Other cat Breeds

• Ragdoll vs Maine Coon Cats: Which Cat Breed Suits You?
• Ragdoll vs. Himalayan Cats, Know The Difference
• Ragamuffin or Ragdoll: Which One Is the Best Pet for You?
• Persian Cat vs Ragdolls- Which One Is the Best?

FAQs

Conclusion

Aside from Persians, the ragdoll cat breed is among the most popular. They are regarded as extremely affectionate, relatively new cat breeds. They have a personality and traits that are very loving. Ragdoll cats are more likely to enjoy your company than others if you enjoy cuddling and holding them.

Similarly, you can choose from various ragdoll types and get your preferred coated ragdoll. They are also reputed to be simple to maintain. Although they are more expensive than other cats, we can assure you that they are worth it.