Calico Ragdoll Cat – Facts, Origin & History (With Pictures)
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The Calico Ragdoll cat is an especially delightful breed whose beauty and charisma have captivated pet owners around the world! This breed of cats has rapidly grown in popularity due to its stunning markings, gentle and loving nature, and its unique history.
In this article, we will explore the origin of the Calico Ragdoll cat and discover some fun facts about these delightful fur babies along the way! So sit back, relax, and prepare to be charmed by the Calico Ragdoll cat.
The Earliest Records of Calico Ragdoll Cats in History
The exact date when Calico Ragdolls were introduced isn’t known, but we can get a pretty good estimate. The first record of Ragdoll cats was documented in the early 1960s in Riverside, California.
Thanks to the breeding efforts of Ann Baker, it would not take long for Ragdolls to become a highly sought-after breed. But as for the “calico” breed of Ragdolls, the designation is a bit of a misnomer.
This is because Ragdolls are incapable of producing a true calico. It simply isn’t in their genes. Therefore, any Calico Ragdoll is almost certainly a mixed breed cat or at least has calico markings as a result of outcrossing with another breed.
Still, that hasn’t seemed to have had any impact on their popularity among cat lovers!
How Calico Ragdoll Cats Gained Popularity
The Ragdoll cats, in general, gained immense popularity due to their gentle nature and loyal disposition. Not only that but the fact that they were suitable for all types of households, occupying both apartments and large homes equally.
Their unique colored coat was what really made them stand out from the rest of the cats, making them a highly sought-after breed.
The Calico Ragdolls were especially popular due to their tri-colored coats that are created by crossing two distinct breeds. The combination of white, cream, and orange was especially appealing to those looking for a unique pet.
Formal Recognition of Calico Ragdoll Cats
Since Calico Ragdoll cats aren’t an official breed, they aren’t recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). Moreover, the CFA’s website doesn’t list Calico Ragdolls, not even for breeding only.
Thus, anyone looking to buy a Calico Ragdoll should always make sure that the cat they’re buying is purebred stock. In which case, it won’t be a true “Calico” Ragdoll.
Top 3 Unique Facts About Calico Ragdoll Cats
There’s more to the Calico Ragdolls than just their beautiful coats, though! Here are five facts about these cats that you may not have known:
1. Calico Ragdolls Have Lovable Dispositions
Despite outcrossing, Calico Ragdolls are known to be quite affectionate and loving, making it easy to form a bond with them. Calico Ragdolls make excellent companions, being loyal and devoted to their owners. In addition to being easygoing, Calico Ragdolls are quite playful and inquisitive. They love trying to figure out puzzles and using their mental skills to solve problems.
2. They Are Not to Be Confused With Tortie Ragdolls
Calico Ragdolls look a lot like Tortie Ragdolls, but they aren’t the same. Tortie Ragdolls are a solid color with cream and orange splotches, while Calico Ragdolls are a combination of white, cream, and orange.
3. It’s Genetically Impossible to Have a True Calico Ragdoll
A true Calico Ragdoll isn’t possible due to genetics. That means that any Calico Ragdoll you find is a mixed-breed cat. Either that, or it’s actually a Tortie Ragdoll cat.
Does a Calico Ragdoll Cat Make a Good Pet?
Given their gentle nature, Calico Ragdolls make the perfect pet for all types of households. They love to be around people and are very loyal to their owners. Additionally, they’re easy to train and have low-maintenance needs, making them an ideal choice for first-time pet parents.
Conclusion
Even though Calico Ragdolls aren’t officially recognized as a breed, they still remain highly popular among cat lovers. With their unique tri-colored coats and outgoing personalities, it’s not difficult to see why they’ve become so beloved.
Not only that, but they’re also easy to train and make excellent companions—the perfect pet for both experienced and first-time owners. So, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance cat with an outgoing personality, the Calico Ragdoll might be the perfect choice for you!
Featured Image Credit: Bianka Kovacs, Shutterstock
