They enjoy trotting along side members of the house and retrieving tossed paper wads. They enjoy activity more at ground level than some breeds who prefer surveying from high perches. Be aware that your Ragdoll may join you in the shower or bathtub as they are highly intrigued by the sound of water. Their super sweet, trusting nature can put them in danger. This breed should never be allowed outdoors without supervision. This breed garnered its named from the popular myth that they go completely limp when picked up, just like a rag doll.
The Birman's origins are mysterious but enchanting. One popular legend from ancient Burma proclaims that this breed was a favorite cat with Kittah priests. One day, robbers invaded the Khmer Temple in Burma to steal a golden statute in the image of the blue-eyed goddess Tsun-Kyan-Kse. Mun-Ha, the high priest was injured during this confrontation. As he lay dying, his loyal Birman named Sinh, was said to come to his side and gently rest his paws on his chest, offering him companionship in his final moments. The priest died and his cat was transformed. Sinh's fur turned golden like the goddess and his eyes took on the color of the goddess. Hiss paws were turn to pure white, symbolizing the feline's devotion to his dying priest.
The Maine Coon's shaggy, weatherproof coat, full plume tail and ear tufts provide protection from harsh winters. The coat comes in three types: down, fawn and guard. The thick ruff around the neck and bushy tail shield serve to insulate the body and keep it warm. The square-shaped head is broad, the ears are large and the eyes are big, expressive, and wide set. The breed's muscular body features a broad chest and big boned frame. According to legend, British Captain Charles Coon sailed up and down the New England coasts in the 1800s and took some of his seafaring cats with him when he came into port. These ship cats mated with those on land with people referring to them as 'Coon's cats.'