A description of the characteristics of the Ragdoll cat. Find out if they would be right for you.

By Alexandra Heep

This breed is one of the more recent ones and dates back to about 1960. Just as the name implies, it is a cuddly, "floppy" kitty. Hence, it tends to relax when you hold it, even if you hold it on his or her back like a baby. Its fur is very soft. As a matter of fact, it feels more like rabbit hair. A Ragdoll kitten is born white and color won't show until a few weeks later. Their marvelous color patterns won't be completely developed until age two and they keep growing until they reach full maturity at age four.

The Ragdoll is one of the larger breeds, with males weighing in at 20 pounds or more. This breed has the pointed color schemes from the Siamese and the long hair and bushy tails of the Persians. Even though that makes them look somewhat like a Himalayan, thankfully, they lack the health and grooming issues of that breed. Their heads have a curved profile, but their faces are not flat, so you won't have the sinus issues of the Himalayans and Persians to worry about. Since they also lack the heavy dense undercoat, they won't mat or shed a lot. However, they do need some regular grooming; a few days a week with a metal comb should be sufficient.

While quiet and of a placid temperament, Ragdolls still like to play. They like to please their owners, which make them quite trainable. Praise and attention works best with these cats during training sessions. They are also more likely to take to a leash than other cat breeds. They don't enjoy high places and hence don't tend to jump on things, which makes them perfect for a home that has a lot of valuables.

Before a Ragdoll turns its gorgeous blue eyes on you and asks you for a home, consider some other facts. They may not be very vocal, but they are actually less antisocial than other cat breeds and even long for companionship. You must be able to devote time each day for this cat. It is actually even better if there is another cat in the household while you are gone to work. Due to their calm nature, they won't defend themselves and that is why they need to be kept indoors at all times. When they play, they do so without extending their claws. Unfortunately, these characteristics are being used to market them towards homes with small children. Unfortunately, this breed's name makes it sound like a toy. Do not let children treat it as such. Squeezing and holding animals too tight, as well as picking them up in an unsecured manner, is never alright, even if the animal exhibits no defensive behavior.

Your new Ragdoll kitten should not only be your pet, but your companion as well. Enjoy your new family member, with all of his/her lovely charisma and adorable features.

Labels: cat breeds