Ragdoll cats are known for their docile and affectionate nature and for the fact that their coat can be white, red, blue, and fawn colored. They are also known for their bright blue eyes. Blue is the only color of eyes that a Ragdoll cat can have to be classified as a purebred Ragdoll by the International Cat Association.
Are Blue Eyes Common in Ragdoll Cats?
Not only are blue eyes common in Ragdoll cats, but a Ragdoll also can’t be classified as a purebred cat without them. The blue eyes can range in intensity of color, from pale blue to dark navy. Most breeders prefer bright, vivid colors to pale ones.
Can Ragdoll Cats Have Other Eye Colors?
Mink, sepia, and solid color Ragdoll cats do not have blue eyes. These breeds are considered controversial and are not recognized by the International Cat Association because their eye color doesn’t meet the breed standards. Other cat associations have accepted these Ragdolls as purebred cats.
Mink Ragdolls can have blue eyes, blue-green eyes in varying shades, or aqua-colored eyes. Sepia Ragdolls have the widest variety of eye colors. While all Ragdoll kittens are born with blue eyes, they can turn blue, green, aqua, gold, hazel, or brown.
Eye-Color Changes in Ragdoll Kittens
All Ragdoll kittens, including mink, sepia, and solid color Ragdolls, are born with blue eyes. These change to their permanent, adult eye color by the time they reach three months of age. Any color changes after three months may be caused by eye disease and warrant a visit to the vet.
Heterochromia
Heterochromia refers to a condition where a Ragdoll cat has eyes of two different colors. It’s a genetic anomaly that sends more color pigment to one eye than the other. It’s not an indication of a health issue, but it’s something that only affects white cats. This is because heterochromia is caused by the same gene that codes for white fur.
Other Unique Features of Ragdoll Cats
Ragdoll cats are a unique and popular breed of cat known for their blue eyes and affectionate nature. They are named for their tendency to go limp when picked up, like a ragdoll. Ragdolls are a relatively new breed, having only been around since the 1960s.
Ragdoll cats are known for being gentle, loving, and laidback. They are often described as dog-like in their behavior, and they love to be with their humans. They are also known for being intelligent and easily trained.
While blue eyes are the most common eye color for Ragdoll cats, they can also have green or aqua eyes. While they are often thought of as white haired, Ragdolls can come in a wide range of colors and patterns that include blue, chocolate, seal, lilac, cream, and red.
If you’re looking for a loving, laidback companion that will follow you around and always be by your side, you can’t go wrong with a Ragdoll cat!
Final Thoughts
Not all Ragdoll cats have blue eyes, but it is a breed standard set out by the International Cat Association. Other associations do not require Ragdolls to have blue eyes to be recognized as purebred cats. All Ragdoll kittens are born with blue eyes, with their permanent color being exhibited around 3 months of age.
See also:
- Ragdoll Cat Health Problems: 6 Common Concerns
- Can Dogs Tell How Long You Are Gone? Factors, Tips, & FAQ
Featured Image Credit: Tatyana Vyc, Shutterstock
