To determine if a Ragdoll kitten is purebred, you can assess various features such as the head, ears, eyes, and neck. Generally, a purebred Ragdoll cat will have an equilateral triangular head shape, rounded ear tips that tilt slightly forward, and blue eyes. The coat is also a key indicator, being long, soft and plush.
Identifying Purebred Ragdoll Kittens
When trying to determine if your ragdoll kitten is a purebred, consider the following characteristics
Head Shape
The head should form an equilateral triangle, with a flat area between the ears. The cheeks should follow the lines of the face, forming a wedge shape. This is a key aspect of the Ragdoll's appearance.
Ear Characteristics
The ears play a crucial role in the breed's aesthetic. They should not be pointed but rather have a slight roundness at the tips. The base of the ears should have a moderate width, and their length should be proportionate to the head. The ears should also tilt slightly forward, not be straight upright. This subtle forward tilt is important for the Ragdoll appearance.
Eye Appearance
The eyes are best described as an oval or almond shape. The more intense the blue color, the better; some may even appear purplish-blue, but the color shouldn't be too pale. It must be distinctly blue for it to be a purebred Ragdoll. The deep blue color of the eye is what many people love about this breed.
Neck Structure
A Ragdoll should not have a long, slender neck. The neck should be short and strong, proportional to the body. This contributes to the overall sturdy appearance of the breed. Be careful when evaluating the neck; it is very different from other long-haired breeds.
Coat Qualities
Ragdoll cats are renowned for their luxuriously soft, long and silky coat. A purebred Ragdoll should have a fluffy, plush coat. A matted or disheveled coat might suggest that it is not a purebred. Ragdolls are long-haired cats, with the longest fur around the neck and chest, forming what is often called a ruff. The length of this ruff can vary seasonally, but it should always be noticeably longer than the fur of short-haired breeds. Even at its shortest, the Ragdoll's fur will always appear long.