Ragdoll cats are one of the most popular cat breeds in the world and are known for their beautiful blue eyes, long fluffy hair, and docile personality.
Because of these character traits, they can make fantastic show cats and are popular for breeders, with purebred ragdolls typically selling for well over $1000 each.
But how can you tell if your ragdoll cat is purebred?
There are some key signs that your ragdoll cat is purebred. First, most purebred ragdoll cats will have blue eyes. Second, purebred ragdolls are typically very placid and gentle cats. Finally, purebred ragdolls can be quite expensive. If you got your ragdoll for a bargain price, it’s likely he or she is not purebred.
In most cases, when you purchase a ragdoll cat you will receive official documentation from the breeder indicating whether they are purebred – if your breeder isn’t forthcoming with this information, that’s definitely a red flag.
If you are unsure whether your ragdoll cat is purebred, the best way to find out is to take them to a reputable breeder or veterinarian for a DNA test.
This will give you definitive answer as to whether your cat is purebred or not.
However, not all people can afford to pay for a trip to the vet for testing, so in this article I’ll elaborate more on some of the tell-tale signs your ragdoll may be mixed with another breed.
How to tell if your ragdoll is purebred
If you’re buying a ragdoll cat for the first time, it can be difficult to know whether the one you’re looking at is purebred.
This is made even more difficult by the fact ragdolls come in many types, including Seal point, Blue point, Flame point, Blue mitted, Blue bicolor, Lilac point and Mink.
Ragdoll cats are known for their beautiful blue eyes, silky fur, and docile personalities and these are certainly indicators your ragdoll is indeed purebred.
While it’s not a fool-proof list (the only way to be 100 per cent sure is with a DNA test or by seeing a reputable breeder), there are some ways to determine whether your cat is purebred or not.
1. Most purebred ragdoll cats have blue eyes
One of the ways to tell if your ragdoll cat is purebred is by checking if it has blue eyes.
Most purebred ragdoll cats will have blue eyes – in rare cases, they may even have one blue eye and one green eye (known as heterochromia).
If your ragdoll cat does not have blue eyes – and instead has green, amber or gold eyes – this is a potential indication that he or she is not purebred.
2. Purebred ragdolls are typically very placid and gentle cats
Purebred ragdolls are known for their docile, calm, friendly and relaxed demeanour, which is why they make great pets and even better lap cats.
It’s these characteristics that make them suitable for a range of families, including those with young children.
If, when your ragdoll has reached adulthood, you notice them being unusually overactive or even aggressive with their behaviour, it may indicate your ragdoll has been bred with another type of cat (with that breed’s characteristics coming through and being more dominant).
3. Purebred ragdolls are normally quite expensive
Purebred ragdolls are usually quite expensive – costing anywhere between $1000-$2500 – so if you come across a price that seems too good to be true, then it probably is.
If you pay anything less than $1000 for a ragdoll, then chances are it’s not purebred.
If you have concerns about this, ask the breeder for documentation as proof – if they’re reluctant, or unwilling, to provide it to you then it’s best to look elsewhere.
How much do purebred ragdoll cats cost?
Purebred ragdoll cats can be quite expensive, typically costing between $1000 and $2500. If you got your ragdoll for a bargain price cheaper than this, then it probably isn’t purebred.
Prices will typically vary based on whether your cat has flawless features such as neat markings, super white fur, piercing blue eyes or unique facial markings.
Ragdolls with desirable features are often used as show cats and then for breeding, which bumps their value and price up.
Can you mix ragdolls with other cats?
Yes, you can mix ragdolls with other cats, but it’s not normally desirable for breeders to do so. Keeping ragdolls’ bloodline pure protects them from developing potential health conditions that affect other breeds and it also helps them maintain their famous characteristics.
In general, it is best to avoid mixing ragdolls with other cats of a different breed.
Purebred ragdolls are bred for their unique physical and personality traits (including their calm, docile and loving nature) and mixing them with other cats can potentially result in some undesirable behavioural and appearance changes.
For example, if you mix a purebred ragdoll with a Siamese cat, you may end up with a cat that is aggressive or has health problems as this particular breed, while normally lovable, are prone to problematic behaviour that can become antagonistic.
However, if you do choose to mix ragdolls with other cats, be sure to do so under the supervision of a reputable breeder or veterinarian to make sure that your cat is getting the best possible care.
Final message
If you’re looking to buy a ragdoll cat, it’s certainly preferable to get one that’s purebred.
While some of their physical traits are a giveaway – including their trademark blue eyes, silky white fur or docile demeanours – the only way to be sure a ragdoll is purebred is to obtain official documentation from your breeder upon purchase, or get a DNA test.
It’s worth doing this, as purebred ragdolls will usually make far better pets than ones mixed with other breeds.
