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Introduction
The Ragdoll cat breed is extremely popular due to their large size and friendly temperament, and a few of the most sought-after ones have a tortoiseshell coat. Keep reading as we explain what the tortoiseshell pattern is and share several other facts to help you determine if this breed is right for you.
Breed Overview
Height:
9–11 inches
Weight:
8–20 pounds
Lifespan:
12–15 years
Colors:
Black, blue, red, white, orange, yellow, grey
Suitable for:
Large families and small families with plenty of time
Temperament:
Calm, loving, playful
Tortoiseshell refers to the pattern that a cat’s coat can have, not the breed. The tortoiseshell pattern creates patches of color all over the body, and the cat’s genes determine the colors. The instruction for color is on the X chromosome. If it calls for eumelanin, the patches will be black, and if it calls for pheomelanin, the patches will be red. Since male cats only have one X chromosome, they cannot produce a true tortoiseshell pattern, as the patches will all be red or black. Female cats have two X chromosomes, so the tortoiseshell pattern will appear if each calls for a different color. Therefore, almost all Ragdoll Tortoiseshell cats are female, with the only exception being the rare male cats born with an extra X chromosome.
Ragdoll Tortoiseshell Breed Characteristics
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A high-energy cat needs a lot of physical and mental stimulation to keep healthy and happy, while a low-energy cat needs minimal physical activity, but still needs mental stimulation. When choosing a cat, It’s important to ensure their energy levels match your lifestyle.
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Cats that are easy-to-train are more willing and skilled at quickly learning prompts and actions with minimal training. Harder-to-train cats are usually more stubborn or aloof and require a bit more patience and practice.
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Certain cat breeds are more prone to various genetic health problems, and some more than others. This doesn’t mean that every cat in those breeds will have these issues, but they do have an increased risk, so it’s important to understand and prepare for any additional needs they may require.
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Due to their size or potential genetic health issues of a specific breed, some cats have shorter lifespans than others. Proper nutrition, exercise, mental stimulation, and hygiene also play an important role in your cat’s lifespan and quality of life.
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Some cat breeds are more social than others, both towards humans and other cats and animals. Cats that are more social have a tendency to rub up on strangers for scratches or jump on laps for cuddles, while cats that are less social shy away, hide, are more cautious, and even potentially aggressive. No matter the breed or gender, it’s important to socialize your cat and expose them to many different situations.
The Earliest Records of the Tortoiseshell Ragdoll in History
American breeder Ann Baker created the first Ragdoll in the 1960s by combining various domestic cats, including the Persian, Siamese, and Birman. One of these cats had a Siamese color-point coloration. Ragdoll cats have many distinguishable characteristics, including the upside-down V shape on the forehead of bicolor cats, long tails, and large, round, blue eyes. They get their name from their tendency to go limp like a rag doll when picked up.
How the Tortoiseshell Ragdoll Gained Popularity
The Tortoiseshell Ragdoll is a popular cat because of their large size and friendly nature. Often weighing more than 15 pounds, this is one of the largest cats that you can find, and their blue eyes are different from most other breeds. They’re also calm and affectionate and like to cuddle and follow you around the house. They get along well with other pets and enjoy greeting strangers
Formal Recognition of the Tortoiseshell Ragdoll
When Ann Baker created the Ragdoll breed, she didn’t want it recognized by any cat breeding associations. Instead she formed the International Ragdoll Cat Association (IRCA) to maintain the breed in 19711. However, a husband and wife team broke with the IRCA in 1975 and created the Ragdoll standard that the Cat Fanciers Association and other major cat registries could accept2.
Top 8 Unique Facts About the Tortoiseshell Ragdoll
Does the Tortoiseshell Ragdoll Make a Good Pet?
Yes, the Tortoiseshell Ragdoll makes a great pet. They’re extremely affectionate and enjoy being around their owners. They will stay relaxed while you carry them around and will sit on your lap while you watch a movie. Their calm temperament and large size make them ideal for pairing with other pets, children, and the elderly. The long fur will need frequent brushing, but that’s usually easy to accomplish because they love being pampered.
Conclusion
The Tortoiseshell Ragdoll is a great choice for any cat lover. The multicolor coat, combined with their large size and big blue eyes, is hard to pass up. These cats are also extremely friendly and enjoy spending time with you, even as you do your daily chores. You can carry them around if you can manage their heavy weight, and their calm nature helps them get along with pets, children, and even strangers.
Featured Image Credit: JFunk
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