Why do Traditional Balinese look similar to Ragdolls?
The origin of Ragdolls is generally a mystery but is obviously a combination of multiple breeds. Some have points resembling a Siamese, Balinese, or Himalayan, while others have points combined with white markings on the face and or white feet suggesting traits of Birmans or various other breeds with white spotting. It is not known, except to the originator of the breed, exactly what combination of breeds were used, although one might assume that the Traditional Balinese was one of them, particularly given the silky, non-matting fur so characteristic of the Balinese which now is considered a trait of the Ragdoll. Generally speaking, the Ragdoll is larger, has lighter eyes and, according to “Encyclopedia of Cat Breeds” By J. Anne Helgren (which offers comparative evaluations of various traits of various breeds) Ragdolls are less intelligent, more docile, less active, require more grooming and are less vocal than Traditional Balinese.
