Ragdoll Cat Breed Standard: A Comprehensive Guide to Appearance

To assess the quality of a Ragdoll cat, consider its physique, eyes, ears, muzzle, coat, and color patterns. A top-quality Ragdoll should be broad and sturdy with captivating deep blue eyes that are large and oval-shaped. Their ears should be pointed, proportionate in size and spacing, and their muzzle should be as wide as possible. They should have a long, soft coat ideally with a ruff, and come in four primary color patterns: bi-color, mitted, pointed, and van.

Judging the Quality of a Ragdoll Cat

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to look for when evaluating a Ragdoll cat:

Body Type

Ragdolls are a large breed, and an ideal Ragdoll should have a broad, solid, and well-muscled body. They should be robust and well-built without being overweight, possessing a long and wide bone structure, giving them a square appearance. The chest should be full, and the width of their hips should be symmetrical to their shoulders. The overall impression should be one of substantial size and strength.

Eyes

Ragdolls are known for their mesmerizing blue eyes, which range in shades from light to deep. Top-quality Ragdolls will have eyes that are slightly upturned at the corners and well-spaced apart. Their eyes should be very large and oval-shaped. The intensity and depth of the blue color are crucial indicators of quality.

Ears

An ideal Ragdoll should have pointed ears that are slightly rounded at the tips. They should be medium in size, proportionate to their head, and triangular in shape. The ears should be moderately spaced, slightly outward-facing, and tilted slightly forward. Proper ear shape and positioning are key to breed standards.

Muzzle

The muzzle, often referred to as the "mask", is an important feature. A wider muzzle indicates higher quality. It should be round, of medium length, and their nose should be straight without any breaks. A strong chin is essential, and the muzzle and chin should form a straight line. A well-developed muzzle enhances the cat’s overall appearance.

Coat

Ragdolls come in four distinctive patterns: bi-color, mitted, pointed, and van, and their coat colors include chocolate, lilac, seal, blue, red, and cream. The coat should be medium in length, soft, and silky. Volume is essential, and the more fur, the better, with minimal undercoat. A substantial ruff (or mane) around the neck is highly desirable, as well as a big, bushy tail. A plush, healthy coat is a hallmark of the breed.Learn more:Pet Grooming