By: Dr Jennifer Creed
Introduction • The Ragdoll cat can be described in three words: big, beautiful, and friendly. With silky, medium-length fur that's similar to a Persian or Angora and the sizable body—and affable personality—of a small puppy dog, the Ragdoll is a favorite breed among cat fanciers.
Interesting Facts About Ragdoll Cats • • • •
Ragdolls are lap cats Ragdolls are a relatively new breed Ragdolls have beautiful blue eyes Ragdolls are one of the largest cat breeds • Ragdolls are "dog-like" cats • Ragdoll was the world's longestliving "janus cat
Ragdolls are Lap Cats •
Ragdolls thrive on human companionship, and, unlike some other felines, love being held. In fact, the breed supposedly got its name because early litters of the docile, friendly cat became limp and floppy like rag dolls when they were picked up.
Ragdolls are a Relatively New Breed •
Ann Baker, a breeder who lived in California during the 1960s, is credited with creating the Ragdoll. Baker took a domestic longhaired white female that was found running wild in her neighborhood, and bred her with another longhaired cat.
Beautiful Blue eyes •
Aside from its plush fur and large body, the Ragdoll is known for its bright blue eyes and color-pointed coat. Ragdolls also come in a variety of shades, ranging from seal (brown) and blue to red and cream. Variations like tortoiseshell and tabby markings are also common.
Ragdolls are One of the Largest Cat Breeds •
According to the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), male Ragdolls typically weigh between 15 and 20 pounds, and females between 10 and 15 pounds. That makes them slightly larger than other feline heavyweights like the Maine Coon, which can weigh up to 18 pounds, and the Norwegian Forest Cat, which can weigh up to 16 pounds.
Ragdolls are “Dog-like" Cats •
They love stuffed animals and little toys which they will carry from room to room. One of them even plays fetch. If you are looking for a more independent animal, the ragdoll is not for you; they demand and need a LOT of attention and play."
Ragdoll Was the WoRld's longest-living “Janus Cat •
A feline born with two faces is called a Janus cat—a name that’s inspired by the Roman god Janus, who is often portrayed as having two faces. The world’s most famous two-faced cat, Frank and Louie (also known as Frankenlouie) was a Ragdoll. He had two functioning eyes, a blind central eye, two noses, and two mouths.
• Dr Jennifer Creed is a licensed veterinarian and CEO of the Dr. J’s Perfect Dolls who has earned the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine.