Ragdoll Cat Controversy
Jun 1st, 2006 by Rob
The Ragdoll cat breed has been shrouded in controversy since Ann Baker started breeding the cats in the 60s. Much of this controversy traces back to Ann Baker herself and the wild stories she told about her cats. The claims range from the ridiculous to the obscure; here is list of common Ragdoll myths.
Ragdoll Cats Are Impervious To Pain
This is one of the wild claims made by Ann Baker. She claimed the cats were genetically engineered by aliens and the government. The genetic engineering made her cats impervious to fear and pain. Ragdoll cats are no different than any other cat: pointy ears, four paws, a tail, and some whiskers.
Ragdoll Cats Do Not Have Hunting Instincts
Ragdoll cat instincts are the same as any other cat; whether or not they choose to act on them depends on how lazy the cat is feeling at the moment. Ragdolls are large cats, they tend to be clumsy and do not typically make good mousers.
Ragdoll Cats are Allergen Free
Ragdoll cats shed very little and many people who own them report fewer cat related allergies; however, there is nothing special about this breed that makes it better for people with pet allergies than any other cat.
Ragdoll Cats Were Genetically Engineered
The 60s was more about social revolution in the United States than it was about genetics; Ann Baker’s claims of genetic manipulation by the government were simply tall tales told to draw attention to her new cat breed. She also claimed the cats were brought here by aliens, possibly in exchange for Elvis.
Tall tales aside, Ragdoll cats are an excellent breed of cat that gets along well with dogs, other cats, and children. If you are looking for a low maintenance pure bred cat that sheds very little, Ragdoll cats are the breed for you.