Explore Calico Ragdoll: History, Personality & Much More
Calico Ragdolls are one of the most exquisite cat breeds. This adorable cat can be found all over the USA and is gradually rising to the top due to its lovely appearance and kind disposition. Ragdoll cats are beloved for their calm and gentle nature. They are incredibly affectionate and love cuddling with their owners.
This comprehensive blog discusses these charming cats, their history, and other significant but little-known information. You’ve come to the right place if you want to adopt one of these cats or just learn more about them.
Calico Ragdoll In a Nutshell
Breed Introduction
Calicos are domestic cats with a unique coat that’s mostly white with big patches of black and orange. This pattern happens because of a particular genetic change. Calico cats are usually females since the difference is on the X chromosome. It’s extremely rare for a male cat to be calico because he’d need two X chromosomes (XXY).
Historical Overview
The Calico Ragdoll is a newer cat breed created in the 1990s by Ann Baker, who also made the Ragdoll breed. Calico Ragdolls are medium to large, with a soft coat featuring a mix of white, black, and orange patches. They have blue eyes and a sweet expression.
Calico Ragdolls are friendly, smart, and easy to train. They’re great for families with kids and other pets. While still somewhat rare, their popularity is growing thanks to the internet.
Physical Appearance of Ragdoll Calico
Calico Ragdoll cats are medium to large, known for their muscular build and soft, silky coat that features a mix of white, black, and orange patches. Their blue eyes and sweet, gentle expressions add to their charm.
Some key physical characteristics include a broad head, large oval-shaped eyes, medium-sized slightly rounded ears, thick and proportionate legs, a long and bushy tail, and their signature soft and medium-length coat.
Formal Recognition of Ragdoll Calico
Ann Baker founded the International Ragdoll Cat Association (IRCA) in 1971 and trademarked the Ragdoll four years later. She also allowed others to breed Ragdolls through franchising. She aimed to develop three Ragdoll subgroups: mitted, color point, and bicolor cats.
Ragdolls gained international recognition, appearing in the National Cat Fanciers Association (NCFA) in 1973 and the Cat Fanciers Association in 1993. However, Ragdolls didn’t achieve championship status in the CFA during Ann Baker’s lifetime, as she passed away in 1999 from lung cancer.
Personality
These cats are known for being loving, calm, and smart. They’re great for families and get along well with other pets. These cats are loyal, always stick by your side, and are patient, making them suitable for kids.
They’re social and enjoy being around people and other animals. While they’re low-maintenance, they need regular grooming to keep their coats healthy. If you’re thinking about getting one, find a good breeder. With love and care, this cat can be a treasured family member for years.
Health
These cats are usually healthy but can have a few common health issues:
They can also get common cat health problems like Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV). Keep an eye on their health, and they should do just fine.
Size & Weight of Calico Ragdoll
In terms of weight, female Calico Ragdolls typically range from 8 to 15 pounds, while males can weigh between 12 and 20 pounds or even more. These characteristics collectively make the Calico Ragdoll a visually striking cat breed.
They are medium to large. Their size and weight can vary due to genetics, diet, and health, but most fall within this range. These cats can keep growing until they’re about four, so their final size may not show until they’re fully grown.
Care & Maintenance
Taking care of these is pretty simple. Still, a few things keep them happy and healthy:
- Grooming: Brush their medium-length coat regularly, especially during shedding. Keeping their nails and ears clean is also crucial.
- Feeding: Be mindful of their weight. Feed them a good diet for their age and activity level. Serve two or three small meals each day to prevent overeating.
- Exercise: While not the most active cats, they enjoy playtime. Give them toys, climbing structures, and scratching posts to keep them moving.
- Veterinary Care: Regular checkups and vaccinations at the vet help ensure they stay healthy and catch any issues early. This way, your pet will be happy and fit.
Color Variations
Ragdoll cat calico can have many different colors in their fur. The most common colors are:
- White, black, and orange: The classic calico look with white, black, and orange patches.
- White, chocolate, and cream: Similar to the classic look, but with chocolate brown and cream patches. Another variation of the classic look with blue and lilac fur patches.
Other possible color variations include:
- Tortie calico: A mix of calico and tortoiseshell patterns.
- Lynx calico: Calico with tabby markings.
- Dilute calico: Calico with lighter colors.
Ragdoll Calico Price
How much is a female calico cat worth? This depends on the breeder, the cat’s pedigree, and the color and pattern of its coat, among other things. However, a Calico Ragdoll kitten will generally cost you between $800 and $2,500.
You might have to pay even more if you want a Calico Ragdoll of show quality. Perfectly marked and colored, show-quality Calico Ragdolls frequently come from champion bloodlines. Price ranges for Calico Ragdoll kittens with show quality can reach $2,500 to $5,000 or even higher.
How Much Is A Male Calico Cat Worth?
Calico male cat prices are higher because male calico cats are relatively rare.
Life Span
An average Ragdoll cat calico lives 12 to 20 years. Your cat can live a long and healthy life with the proper care.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
Conclusion
A Ragdoll cat calico is a unique breed with a distinctive tri-colored coat, primarily white. While finding a purebred calico Ragdoll is rare, Ragdolls can exhibit tortoiseshell patterns that might resemble calico.
Bred since the 1960s by Ann Baker, these cats have become highly sought-after pets, typically living around 15 years, weighing 12 pounds, and reaching maturity at 4 years of age. Their captivating charm and striking appearance make them a beloved choice for cat enthusiasts.
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