Ragdoll Cats
The Ragdoll breed of cats has a fairly recent pedigree, first being bred in the 1960's and not recognized for registration until the late 1970s. The Ragdoll is a large, docile cat with soft, non-tangling fur. The texture of the fur is similar to rabbit fur and is fairly long with a definite ruff on the muscular chest. The ragdolls fur produces light shedding that a steel comb used a couple of times a week can prevent.
The Ragdoll's head is large and triangular shaped with close set triangular ears. All Ragdolls have blue eyes and at least some Siamese-type markings on their faces and body. Ragdoll kittens are born all white and they are slow to mature, taking approximately 3 years for their full growth and color markings to develop.
The Ragdoll is so named because of its tendency to be very laid back and relaxed in its temperament. For this reason, it is recommended that Ragdolls not be allowed to be outdoor cats. There is a myth that the Ragdoll will not defend itself, but will lay down in submission to an attack. This is not true. While the Ragdoll is very docile, it will defend itself, fight back when threatened, and even become the alpha cat in a multi-cat family.
While the Ragdoll can be very vocal when it wants attention, its voice is very soft and pretty. Some Ragdolls can be held like a baby and love to have their tummies rubbed. They like to be with their people and will follow you from room to room and sleep on your bed, much like a small dog.
The Ragdoll is one of the sleepiest breeds of cats, taking long afternoon naps, and always ready to go to bed for the evening. They are not finicky eaters, but they are particular about their litter box, demanding an absolutely clean box at all times.
They are also curious about water sources, preferring to drink from the bathtub or sink faucet, even when clean water is available in their bowl.
P.S. - Ragdolls really do demand extra special care that generic cat information sources just don't cover. Check out these ragdoll "secrets" that will help future and current ragdoll cat owners, like yourself, give your ragdolls the special care that they deserve.