Simkatzo Diamond Chocice (Kai)

20/3/2003 - 9/11/2007

Picture courtesy of Irina Garmashova

The first Ragdolls came from a queen called Josephine who was a white semi longhair of "Angora type". She was then mated to a neighbours cat called Blackie, and produced a cat of "Birman looking type" whom Ann named Raggedy Ann Daddy Warbucks, who was known as the first Ragdoll.

Josephine mated with several males in the neighbourhood, and Ann Baker took some kittens from these various matings and put them back to Daddy Warbucks. These cats were the founders of the breed we have today.

Ragdolls are one of largest domestic cats with neutered males sometimes reaching up to 3 ft in length and over 20lbs in weight.

Ragdolls are large muscular cats which are semi-long haired, with stunning blue eyes. They are famous for their relaxed, friendly and trusting nature which makes them superb family pets. There fur is soft and silky and feels like rabbit fur. It is said to have non matting qualities but this is not exactly true and if neglected knots may appear especially under the front and hind legs so regular grooming is recommended.

Often Ragdolls will follow their owner round like a puppy, I often come home to find my Raggies lined up behind the door waiting for me. Their favourite position is on their backs with their legs stretched out for their tummies to be tickled.

They are incredibly affectionate and like to receive as much love as they give. For this reason Ragdolls are not suited to homes where they will be left on their own for long periods of time.

• Ragdolls are always indoor cats and are safer inside because of their docile, gentle nature.