Ragdoll Cat Breed Information Breeders Kittens Australia

Though Ragdoll cats are a fairly new breed, having been around only since the 1960s, they have become immensely popular. Ragdolls were first bred in the United States, and likely originated from crossing long-haired cat breeds such as Persians, Angoras and Birman cats. The breed has been exported all around the world, and was recognised in Australia in 1990. Ragdolls can now be found all around the country, although the majority of the cats and their breeders are found in Queensland. There is no formal body for Ragdoll Cats in Australia.

The temperament of the Ragdoll Cat

One of the reasons that the Ragdoll Cat is such a popular pet is that it is famously placid and relaxed. The cat has a habit of going limp when it is handled or picked up, and it is this habit from which its name derives. The breed is very relaxed and low-maintenance and Ragdolls are not known for being especially active or vocal. They are not natural hunters, and may be a good choice for households with other pets, and for households with small children. They tend to be good around strangers, too, generally making them an excellent pet in households where visitors are common. They're also an excellent choice for apartment living, and can be a good pet for the elderly, as they do not require much in the way of maintenance and grooming.

Large and silky

Ragdoll Cats are distinctive in appearance. They are quite large, and tend to be a heavy cat, with males weighing up to ten kilograms—and in some cases even more. They have a longish coat, and typically have dark points on the feet, tail, and face. They are usually found in four colours: chocolate, seal, lilac, and blue. The colours of the cat's points are usually dependent on the colour of its coat. Often it takes some time for the cat to develop its final coat colour, which usually emerges upon maturity. However, regardless of their colouring, the cats always have large blue eyes that are oval in shape. Unlike breeds such as Persians, however, they do not have an undercoat, which means that they are less prone to matting.

Looking after a Ragdoll

Ragdolls do not need much in the way of exercise, and need surprisingly little maintenance in terms of brushing and grooming. They do enjoy care and attention, but unlike some other breeds of cat do not become agitated or vocal if they are left alone. However, potential owners should note that while not much grooming is required, the breed does shed hair on a continuous basis. This may be an issue for some home owners.

Breed Health Concerns

One issue that seems to plague Ragdolls is a heart condition known as cardiomyopathy. This condition is often found in larger breeds of cats, and results in a gradual breaking down of the heart muscles. It is a fatal condition, and usually causes death within a year or so. Some cats may also suffer from kidney issues, although this can be tested for when the cat is young. Dental issues can occur, but may be prevented or minimised by ensuring that the cat has a healthy and nutritious diet. Most Ragdoll Cats can be expected to live up to around 15 years of age.