One of the largest breeds of cats is the ragdoll and was bred in the USA not so long ago, but has already become quite popular among cat lovers all over the world. These are the most phlegmatic creatures of all cats and, if given a reward for laziness, “rag dolls” (as the name of the breed is literally translated from English) would easily win gold, silver and bronze medals.
History of the origin of the breed
Try to carefully lift her paw and let go - she will fall again like a rag doll's hand. The legend about the origin of the Ragdoll cat is simply amazing. Its name supposedly comes from a cat that was the victim of a car accident. She passed on the weak muscle tone she had after the accident to her offspring. A cat-doll that does not react to being disturbed, shaken, or thrown around.
It is possible that breeder Anne Baker's intentions included plans to obtain cats with an obedient and kind character when she decided to marry Josephine, a white Angora, and a seal-point Burmese cat, who had a kind and calm character. They gave birth to three beautiful kittens.
As soon as the kittens matured, selection work was carried out in two directions: the first line was a “light” Burmese, and the second line was a “dark” one, in the crossing of which a Persian and a Burmese took part. The breeder's new breed was registered in 1965 in California.
The Ragdoll Club association decided not to include other breeds in working with Josephine’s offspring. In order not to spoil the reputation of the breed, alliances were carefully drawn up between Josephine’s heirs and Burmese cats or long-haired Burmese mestizos. Work on selection is ongoing to this day.
So what is a Ragdoll cat, what is its character and general characteristics? This is not a breed that is immediately recognized. The Ragdoll is a very beautiful and big cat.
general characteristics
What kind of animal is a ragdoll?
Character
Ragdoll cats are sweet and kind creatures. They are very neat and affectionate, quickly getting used to new surroundings. They have virtually no character flaws. They are quiet and soft, answering questions with a pleasant and soft purr. They are great friends with small children, other cats and even dogs. Ragdolls have a strong need for communication and try to do everything in order to be close to their owner.
The cute representatives of the breed were even called “pussycats” because of their kind and affectionate disposition. They really like to be pampered, hugged and caressed.
Appearance
The Ragdoll's head is small in size and has a small flat surface between the ears. The Ragdoll has a well-developed muzzle, clearly visible cheeks, and a wide nose. Their ears are slightly tilted forward and rounded at the ends. There may be tufts at the tips of the ears. Their beautiful eyes, deep blue in color, have an oval shape, they are large and located slightly obliquely.
Cats have a strong body and neck, and have a muscular and strong body. Ragdoll cats are several times larger in size than females. Cats' paws are also strong and large, and tufts of hair can be seen between the toes. The tail is slightly lowered and quite long.
The beautiful, long coat fits well to the body, it is silky and soft to the touch. Their fur looks especially beautiful in the neck and muzzle area, forming a chic frill.
Care instructions
Ragdolls are the very embodiment of neatness. They know how to take care of themselves perfectly: they lick themselves often and for a long time, wash themselves thoroughly, diligently sharpen their claws, and eat carefully. Therefore, you can rarely bathe them: once a year will be enough (or if the cat has gotten into the mud and cannot wash itself).
Wool
They love being brushed, so you can scratch your Ragdoll every day. Buy a brush with natural bristles (for long-haired cats) and do it according to the scheme: first comb the head, chest, then the back, belly, sides, and finally the paws. Disassemble the tail with your hands; there is no need to touch it with a brush.
During shedding, wet your hands and run several times over the cat's body from head to tail. This will help remove excess fallen hairs.
Eyes
The eyes are examined every day. They rarely leak. They can be treated with a special lotion or chlorhexidine.
Teeth
Brushing your teeth prevents problems such as tartar, gingivitis and many others. Do this every week using a special brush and toothpaste for cats.
Claws
Claws are trimmed 2 times a month (if required).
Toilet - a tray with sides no lower than 6 cm. Filler - whichever is more convenient.
The cost of a ragdoll kitten is about 20-40 thousand rubles. But these are individuals that will not participate in breeding. Breed class babies are more expensive: about 70 thousand.
Ragdoll cat: reviews from owners
The Internet is full of reviews about the character of ragdolls. The breed is praised and almost idolized. What is the amazing magnetism of an animal: appearance or character? Let's read a review about a Ragdoll cat together, which may give you an incentive to buy a kitten of this breed and help spread the cute creature.
Mila is 32 years old.
As I see it, the Ragdoll cat breed, for some reason, is not spreading very quickly. Well, yes, the price of kittens, in my opinion, is too high, but over time, due to their large number, they would become available to everyone.
Although, I myself received Marusya as a gift, and I would not have been able to afford to buy her at that time.
Anyway. Let's talk about Marusenka. As a child, my ragdoll cat was a beauty. She has such soft and lush fur, and her eyes are like the sky. Believe me, looking at this kitten it was impossible to remain indifferent.
The character, like the body, is constantly in a relaxed state. No aggression or indifference. Marusya never scratched, much less bit, me.
You should have heard how my friends are talking about my ragdoll cat now. Indeed, with age, Marusya’s beauty blossomed even more, partly thanks to my care. I take care of her coat all the time, combing it and ironing it. I'm pleased and Marusya doesn't mind. The Ragdoll is a true companion and very people-oriented. For me, this is not just a cat, this is my baby, my family member.
I found this review about the Ragdoll breed on the Internet, on one thematic forum. I would like to note that all reviews about the breed are similar in structure - the cat is praised. Unfortunately, there are not many comments - the rarity of the breed affects it. Therefore, if you are the happy owner of a kitten or are planning to buy a ragdoll, do not forget to leave your feedback in the comments. The best review will be published as a separate article under your authorship.
Ragdoll in a small apartment
The situation is very banal: in connection with my studies, I am renting a one-room studio apartment. Only 25 meters of the entire apartment. I really want to have a koshre. Not just any kind of thing, but ragdoll. And only him. The Ragdoll is known to be a large breed. A reasonable question arises whether he will be cramped in such an apartment. And one more follow-up question. Due to work, two or three times a week I am forced to be away from home for 10-12 hours, because... work involves traveling to other cities. Of course, I return in the evening, but is it possible to leave such a cat alone for a long time? After all, ragdolls are very attached to their owner and miss him (the option of adopting two cats at once is not considered). In advance, thanks for your advice
