Cherubim Ragdolls: Complete Guide to History, Colors, Temperament, and Finding a Cherubim Cat for Sale
Cherubim Ragdolls confuse many new buyers because the term appears mainly in TICA registration. Although most people know Ragdolls as pointed cats with blue eyes, the breed includes a wider genetic family known as Cherubim Ragdolls. These cats remain purebred Ragdolls but come in additional colors and patterns such as mink, sepia, and solid. Because of this, many buyers search for Cherubim Ragdoll kittens for sale without fully understanding what the term means.
This guide explains Cherubim history, registration, colors, traits, and how to find a healthy Cherubim cat from a reputable breeder.
Cherubim Ragdoll Cat Breed
Mink, sepia, and solid Ragdolls are now registered as Cherubim in TICA. These cats often appear in the same litter as pointed kittens. A seal point will register as Ragdoll, while its seal mink sibling will register as Cherubim — even though both share Ragdoll type and temperament.
The Cherubim breed is a compromise that keeps pointed Ragdolls pure to their standard while recognizing the heritage of mink and solid lines. These color lines began with Ann Baker herself, who always considered them part of her Ragdoll program. She referred to solids as Miracle Ragdolls and classified her gentle indoor cats as Cherubim.
LCWW already accepts minks and sepias. They compete alongside pointed Ragdolls as Cherubim Ragdolls.
The official TICA change arrived May 1, 2025. From then on, kittens are assigned Ragdoll or Cherubim based solely on color genetics. Both types remain eligible for titles under their breed class.
Cherubim Ragdolls Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Ragdoll Breed Group (TICA) |
| Accepted Colors | Mink, Sepia, Solid |
| Eye Colors | Aqua, Gold, Green, Hazel, Chartreuse |
| Registration Code | CB (Cherubim) in TICA |
| Recognized Starting | May 1, 2025 |
| Show Eligibility | New Traits, Exhibition, Household Pet |
| Temperament | Calm, affectionate, social |
| Difference From Ragdolls | Full-color coats instead of pointed |
| Can Appear in Same Litter? | Yes, mink/sepia/solid + pointed siblings possible |
| Ideal Homes | Families, multi-pet homes, first-time cat owners |
TICA’s Creation of the Cherubim Breed
TICA members voted on whether to create a new breed for nonstandard Ragdoll colors. The proposal was published in the TICA Trend. Paid TICA Ragdoll members received ballots, and the majority voted to approve the creation of Cherubims. The proposal then moved to the TICA Board of Directors for final review.
During the Spring meeting, the TICA board voted 100% in favor of creating the new Cherubim breed group. As a result, the change will take effect on May 1, 2025.
Beginning on that date:
- All mink, sepia, and solid kittens will register as Cherubim (code CB).
- Registration papers, pedigrees, and show documents will use the Cherubim designation.
- Cherubim will have a written standard and may show for championship.
- Blue-eyed, pointed Ragdolls will remain under the traditional Ragdoll standard.
This allows TICA to honor the pointed Ragdoll standard and give formal recognition to the color lines that have existed since the 1970s.
What Is a Cherubim Ragdoll?
A Cherubim Ragdoll is a purebred Ragdoll registered under TICA’s Cherubim category. The Cherubim classification includes all non-traditional Ragdoll colors, such as:
• Mink
• Sepia
• Solid
• Black and white tuxedo
• Chocolate mink
• Blue mink
• Seal mink
• Cream mink
• Any full-color Ragdoll without colorpoint restriction
These cats remain true Ragdolls with the same temperament, coat texture, and pedigree. The only difference is color expression and genetics.
Cherubim cats do not compete in the traditional Ragdoll pointed classes, but they remain fully recognized, documented, and traceable in TICA’s registry.
What defines a Cherubim Ragdoll?
A Cherubim Ragdoll carries full-color genes instead of the temperature-sensitive pointed gene. These cats display richer pigmentation across the entire body. Their patterns may include mink, sepia, solid, or combinations with white spotting. Despite the color difference, they belong to the same Ragdoll family when bred from registered, traceable lines. Buyers choose them for their soft coats, expressive eyes, and rare coloring.
Why are colored Ragdolls called Cherubims?
Breeders introduced the term Cherubim to classify Ragdolls that do not carry the pointed gene. This label distinguishes them from traditional pointed Ragdolls without removing them from the breed. TICA created this classification so breeders can track pedigrees and maintain consistency across the expanded color range.
Do Cherubim Ragdolls have the same DNA as pointed Ragdolls?
Yes. Cherubim Ragdolls share the same calm, loving temperament. They stay people-focused, gentle, and social. Their color does not affect personality or behavior.
Are Cherubims Ragdolls?
Cherubim cats are fully purebred Ragdolls. They share the same origins, body structure, temperament, and coat type as traditional pointed Ragdolls. Their lineage traces directly to the Ragdoll foundation lines, which anchors them firmly within the breed.
The only distinction lies in color genetics. Traditional Ragdolls carry the pointed gene (cs/cs), which produces pale bodies with darker points and blue eyes. Cherubim cats carry full-color, mink, or sepia genetics instead, which produces richer body color and a wider range of eye colors.
Even with these differences, Cherubim cats remain true to the Ragdoll breed in every structural and behavioral standard. TICA recognizes them as part of the Ragdoll Breed Group, and breeders uphold the same health testing, temperament goals, and breeding ethics.
Cherubim cats do not compete in the traditional pointed Ragdoll show rings, but they qualify for Exhibition, New Traits, and Household Pet classes. When TICA’s Cherubim breed designation becomes active, they will also show within their own dedicated class.
Cherubim Ragdolls can produce pointed Ragdoll kittens when genetics allow. If either parent carries the pointed allele, some kittens in the litter may meet the traditional standard. Breeders use genetic testing to plan litters and maintain accurate classification while preserving the breed’s integrity.
Why Are Some Ragdolls Called Cherubims?
TICA created the Cherubim classification to separate pointed show Ragdolls from non-pointed Ragdolls without removing them from the breed. This protects both sides of the breeding program.
Cherubim Ragdolls:
• Cannot compete in pointed Ragdoll championship rings
• Can compete in New Traits, Exhibition, and Household Pet classes
• Remain fully registered and documented
• Maintain the breed’s genetic diversity
• Preserve important bloodlines
This classification helps breeders keep solid, mink, and sepia Ragdolls within the breed without confusion in show competitions.
Why do breeders use the term Cherubim?
Cherubim comes from Ann Baker who used both the name Ragdoll and Cherubim. Breeders needed a clear way to classify full-color Ragdolls. Cherubim became the term for minks, sepias, solids, and other non-pointed variations. This system keeps the breed organized and protects pedigree integrity.
Does the term change the breed identity?
No. The Cherubim label simply clarifies genetics. It does not remove Ragdoll status. Owners still enjoy the same temperament, coat type, and behavior found in pointed Ragdolls.
Does Cherubim classification help buyers?
Yes. Buyers can easily understand color differences. Cherubim classification ensures transparency in breeding programs. It also supports better decision-making when choosing a kitten.
Cherubim Cat History
Cherubim Ragdolls exist because early Ragdoll breeding contained both pointed and non-pointed genetics. As breeders refined the pointed standard, full-color offspring still appeared. Instead of removing them from the breed, TICA created the Cherubim category to honor the breed’s foundation.
Through the decades, Cherubim Ragdolls helped maintain:
• Strong bone structure
• Genetic diversity
• Excellent temperament
• Coat quality
• Healthy bloodlines
Although the public learned about pointed Ragdolls first, Cherubim Ragdolls remained part of the breed’s internal development and history.
Today, many modern breeders continue to work with Cherubim lines because they offer stunning coat variations and preserve important genetic qualities.
Cherubim Ragdoll Breed History Timeline
1960s
• Ann Baker develops the Ragdoll breed using Josephine and her early foundation cats.
• Early non-pointed cats appear in her lines, including solid and mink kittens.
• Baker refers to some of these cats as her “Miracle Ragdolls.”
1970s
• Ann Baker expands her breeding program and includes solids, minks, and sepias.
• She registers all of them under the IRCA as “Ragdolls.”
• This creates the earliest documented mink and sepia lineage.
1980s–1990s
• Other breeders separate from the IRCA and create the modern Ragdoll breed standard.
• Registries accept only blue-eyed pointed Ragdolls for championship.
• Non-pointed colors continue in private breeding programs but remain unrecognized.
2000s
• Debate grows within the Ragdoll community regarding solids, minks, and sepias.
• Many breeders push to preserve the pointed standard.
• Others argue for recognition of all Ann Baker lineage cats.
2010s
• Online discussions increase as buyers see mink and sepia kittens labeled as Ragdolls.
• Registries continue accepting only pointed Ragdolls for championship.
• Some groups promote “New Traits” and “Exhibition” classes for non-pointed cats.
2020–2023
• TICA members begin openly discussing the creation of a separate category.
• Community questions rise about transparency, registration accuracy, and pedigree clarity.
• Pressure builds to resolve long-standing conflict between breeders.
Fall 2023
• A proposal for a new breed group appears in the TICA Trend.
• TICA Ragdoll members receive ballots to vote on separating non-pointed colors.
• The majority votes in favor of creating a new breed group: Cherubim.
March 2024 (TICA Spring Board Meeting)
• The TICA Board votes 100% in favor of creating the Cherubim breed.
• Plans begin for new classifications, codes, and show eligibility.
May 1, 2025
• The Cherubim breed becomes official in TICA.
• All non-pointed kittens registered after this date receive the breed code CB.
• Cherubim cats may compete for championship titles.
• Ragdolls remain pointed-only with blue eyes under their original standard.
After May 1, 2025
• Any kitten born after this date is registered as Ragdoll or Cherubim based on color genetics.
• Pointed and non-pointed siblings can appear in the same litter.
• Breeders may outcross Cherubim to Ragdolls within the Ragdoll Breed Group.
• Both breeds share the same structural standard.
• Pedigrees for cats registered before May 1, 2025 remain unchanged unless the owner requests updates.
Cherubim Colors and Patterns
Cherubim Ragdolls come in a wide range of shades and patterns. This variety attracts families who want a Ragdoll but prefer coats beyond the traditional pointed look.
Common Cherubim Variations
Mink Ragdoll
Carries one colorpoint gene and one full-color gene (cs/C). Coat appears richer and warmer with aqua eyes.
Sepia Ragdoll
Carries two full-color Burmese-type genes (cb/cb). Coat appears deep, dark, and intense with green-gold eyes.
Solid Ragdoll
Carries two full-color alleles (C/C). Coat appears like a full-color longhair cat with no point shading.
Black and White (Tuxedo) Ragdoll
Carries full color plus white spotting. Very striking and photogenic.
Mink-Bicolor, Mink-Mitted, Mink-Lynx, and Other Patterns
All standard Ragdoll patterns also exist in Cherubim form, which gives buyers many options.
Each variation remains a pure Ragdoll with the classic sweet temperament.
Cherubim Color Comparison Graph
| Cherubim Color | Genetics | Body Color | Point Color | Eye Color | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mink | cs/cb | Medium shading | Soft, blended points | Aqua | Intermediate shade between pointed and sepia |
| Sepia | cb/cb | Darkest full-color body | Low contrast | Green, gold, copper | Richest pigment in the Cherubim group |
| Solid (Full Color) | C/C | Full-color coat | No points | Gold, copper, green | Deepest overall color saturation |
| Blue Mink | cs/cb with dilute | Cool medium blue body | Silvery blue points | Aqua | Velvet texture and soft shading |
| Seal Mink | cs/cb | Warm brown body | Dark seal points | Aqua | Most common mink shade |
| Chocolate Mink | cs/cb with chocolate | Light warm brown body | Pale chocolate points | Aqua | Very soft, pastel shading |
| Lilac Mink | cs/cb dilute + chocolate | Pale frosty body | Lavender points | Aqua | Lightest mink shade |
| Flame Mink | cs/cb red gene | Warm apricot body | Deeper apricot points | Aqua | Very rare in mink lines |
| Cream Mink | cs/cb dilute red | Pale cream body | Soft peach points | Aqua | Extremely soft pastel appearance |
| Seal Sepia | cb/cb | Dark warm body | Very minimal contrast | Green/Gold | Deepest Cherubim shade |
| Blue Sepia | cb/cb dilute | Smoky medium blue body | Low contrast | Green/Gold | Dense, plush coat |
Understanding Mink vs Sepia Coats in Cherubim Ragdolls
Many owners ask why mink Ragdolls show more body color than pointed kittens yet stay lighter than sepias. The answer comes down to genetics. Mink kittens inherit one sepia (cb) gene and one Siamese point (cs) gene. This combination produces the rich, warm shading seen in mink coats, but it does not create the deep saturation seen in full sepia cats.
Sepia Ragdolls inherit two sepia (cb/cb) genes. This pair increases pigment expression significantly and creates the darkest, most saturated coat within the Ragdoll family. Sepias often develop deep brown or heavy-toned coats with minimal contrast. Their eye color usually settles into green or gold.
Mink cats sit between pointed and sepia on the color scale because they carry one copy of each gene. The single sepia gene deepens their body color, but the single point gene keeps the coat lighter than sepia. The point gene also maintains the signature aqua eye color, which is the hallmark of minks. These aqua eyes fall between the blue of pointed Ragdolls and the green eyes of sepias.
If you want a cat with visible body color, soft shading, and aqua eyes, mink lines offer the perfect balance without reaching the full darkness of sepia.
Cherubim Ragdoll Temperament
Cherubim cats behave just like pointed Ragdolls. They offer:
• Calm, affectionate personalities
• Strong family bonding
• Gentle behavior around children
• Relaxed, people-focused energy
• Love of soft play and cuddling
• Easy adjustment to indoor homes
• Compatibility with other cats and dogs
Coat color does not change temperament. Breeders who work with Cherubim lines usually select for exceptional gentleness, which strengthens the classic Ragdoll personality.
Health and Lifespan of Cherubim Ragdolls
Cherubim Ragdolls share the same health profile as all registered Ragdolls. Ethical breeders test for:
• HCM
• PKD
• Blood type compatibility
• Coat and color genetics
• General structural soundness
Proper testing ensures a long lifespan of 12–16 years, with many Cherubims reaching their late teens in healthy homes.
Good nutrition, routine care, stress-free living, and responsible breeding all support long-term wellness.
Cherubim Ragdolls in TICA
TICA recognizes Cherubim Ragdolls as part of the official Ragdoll breed. They appear in TICA’s registry as Cherubim Ragdolls, which protects their lineage and preserves genetic history.
Cherubims qualify for:
• New Traits
• Exhibition
• Household Pet classes
They cannot compete in pointed Ragdoll championship classes because their colors differ. However, they remain legitimate and registered Ragdolls with full documentation.
If you want to explore the differences between Mink, Sepia, and Solid, visit my full Cherubim Ragdoll guide here. (link to your Cherubim Ragdoll post)
Cherubim Cat for Sale: How to Find a Reputable Breeder
Cherubim Ragdolls remain uncommon because many breeders focus on traditional colors only. To find a healthy Cherubim cat for sale, look for breeders who:
• Register with TICA or CFA
• Show pedigrees openly
• Provide genetic testing results
• Raise kittens inside the home
• Show photos of parents and lineage
• Offer detailed contracts and health guarantees
• Produce mink, sepia, and solid lines intentionally
• Understand Cherubim genetics clearly
Avoid sellers who:
• Cannot prove registration
• Do not understand mink or sepia genetics
• Sell kittens before 12 weeks
• Offer “rare colors” with no paperwork
• Use stolen photos or avoid video calls
A Cherubim Ragdoll breeder should offer full transparency, consistent updates, and responsible breeding practices.
Cherubim Ragdoll Kitten for Sale: What to Expect
When you purchase a Cherubim Ragdoll kitten from a reputable breeder, you can expect:
• TICA registration under Cherubim
• Health-tested parents
• Vaccinations and microchipping
• Early socialization
• Steady, affectionate temperament
• A predictable coat type and pattern
• Clear documentation and records
• Guidance long after adoption
Cherubim Ragdoll kittens remain limited, so early applications and waitlist placement help you secure the color and pattern you want.
Cherubim Ragdoll vs Traditional Ragdoll
Here is a simple comparison to help buyers understand the differences:
Cherubim Ragdoll
• Includes mink, sepia, solid, black and white, and full-color variations
• Registered under TICA’s Cherubim group
• Acceptable in New Traits and Exhibition classes
• Wide range of eye colors
• Same temperament and structure as traditional Ragdolls
Traditional Ragdoll
• Always pointed
• Always blue-eyed
• Eligible for all championship show classes
• Most common type
• Very predictable colorpoint development
Both are purebred Ragdolls. The difference lies only in color genetics and show class eligibility.
Cherubim vs Traditional Ragdoll Color Comparison
| Color Type | Coat Appearance | Eye Color | Registration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Pointed | Ivory body, dark points | Blue | Ragdoll | Classic show standard |
| Mink | Soft full-body color | Aqua | Cherubim | Between pointed + sepia |
| Sepia | Deep, rich coat color | Green/Gold | Cherubim | Darkest of the group |
| Solid | Full pigment, no points | Gold/Green | Cherubim | Includes black, chocolate, blue, lilac |
| Lynx Variants | Tabby overlay | Varies | Both | Pattern layered on color |
| Bicolor Variants | White pattern + color | Varies | Both | Pattern, not color |
Why Cherubim Ragdolls Matter
Cherubim Ragdolls play an important role in the future of the breed. They bring wider genetic variety, stronger bone structure, and beautiful full-color expressions that do not appear in the pointed standard. Because breeders can work with a broader color palette, they gain more pairing options, greater flexibility, and healthier long-term lines.
Families also enjoy the stunning coat variations that Cherubim cats offer. Mink, sepia, and solid colors create depth and richness not found in traditional Ragdolls. Although their appearance differs, Cherubim Ragdolls keep the same affectionate temperament and people-focused personality that defines the breed.
By preserving these non-traditional lines, the Ragdoll breed group avoids genetic bottlenecks and maintains its strength and versatility for future generations.
Commonly Asked Questions About Cherubim Ragdoll Cats
Here is the most common questions we get about the new Cherubim ragdoll breed.
Will Older Cats Need New Paperwork?
Cats registered before May 1, 2025, will not change automatically. They remain registered as Ragdolls unless the owner requests a Cherubim reclassification. This protects breeders from losing valuable registration history or dual-registration options.
Pet owners have no requirement to update paperwork. Breeders should monitor updates from TICA to ensure no registration conflicts when working with other associations such as CFA or FiFe.
Can Ragdoll and Cherubim Kittens Appear in the Same Litter?
Yes. A single litter can produce both pointed kittens (registered as Ragdolls) and non-pointed kittens (registered as Cherubims). This happens when breeders pair a traditional Ragdoll with a mink, sepia, or solid. TICA allows this outcrossing, and registration will identify the kittens correctly as SBV Cherubim or SBV Ragdoll until three generations pass and the line becomes SBT.
This matters only to breeders who track registration status or dual-register with CFA, LCWW, or Fife. Pet owners simply choose the look they want: blue-eyed pointed Ragdolls or full-color Cherubims.
Why the Name “Cherubim”?
The name comes directly from Ann Baker, the original creator of the Ragdoll breed. Ann used the term “Cherubim” for her indoor, passive cats and for many of her early experimental color lines. It was the only other name she trademarked besides “Ragdoll.”
Although early Ragdoll breeders eventually focused on pointed cats only, Ann Baker’s mink, sepia, and solid lines remained part of the breed’s foundation. The new Cherubim designation recognizes those original lines and preserves them under a unified group.
The name also parallels other breeds separated by color only, such as:
- Siamese vs Oriental
- Persian vs Himalayan
Cherubim and Ragdoll now represent two branches of the same breed family under TICA.
History of Mink, Sepia, and Solid Lines (Ann Baker’s Original Work)
The mink and solid Ragdoll lines began in the 1970s, when Ann Baker expanded her breeding program. She referred to the solids as her “Miracle Ragdolls” and registered them through her IRCA registry. These lines later entered TICA and CFA pedigrees as nonstandard Ragdolls.
For decades, the Ragdoll community debated whether these color lines should remain under the Ragdoll name. Many breeders preferred the traditional pointed standard. Others appreciated the genetic diversity and rich coloring of mink and sepia.
The Cherubim breed group bridges this divide by honoring both sides of the breed’s history.
What Does the Cherubim Change Mean for Buyers?
Most buyers will see only a small difference:
Pointed kittens will be labeled Ragdolls.
Full-color kittens will be labeled Cherubims.
Temperament, grooming needs, health, and structure stay the same. The only difference is color genetics.
A seal mink and a seal point Ragdoll can appear side-by-side in the same litter. The cats will behave the same. They bond the same. They share identical breed type. The new registration simply clarifies color genetics.
Will Cherubims Compete in Shows?
Yes. Starting May 1, 2025, Cherubims gain access to TICA championship classes. They can compete in:
- New Traits
- Exhibition
- Household Pet
- Championship (once fully integrated)
LCWW already accepts mink and sepia and shows them as Cherubim Ragdolls, so TICA aligns with current international trends.
This provides better visibility for Cherubim breeders and helps the public understand the difference between pointed and full-color Ragdolls.
What About CFA and FiFe?
These organizations may choose to respond later. CFA traditionally keeps a strict pointed Ragdoll standard, and FiFe has not commented publicly. Some breeders expect changes within the next few years as the Cherubim group gains recognition.
Buyer Confusion: Are Cherubims Still Ragdolls?
This is the most common question. Many people worry the new term means their mink or sepia Ragdoll is suddenly “not a Ragdoll.”
Here is the clear answer:
Cherubims share the same temperament, structure, and foundation lines as Ragdolls.
The only difference is color.
Cherubims fall under the Ragdoll breed group in TICA. They remain part of the same family, just categorized by genetics.
Featured Clarification for Confused Buyers
Many buyers now ask why kittens from the same litter will register as two different breeds. The answer lies in genetics, not temperament. A seal mink and a seal point can share parents, but their color genes differ, so TICA must label them accurately.
This clears up years of confusion and prevents scammers from selling mink or sepia cats as traditional pointed Ragdolls.
Additional Public Explanation for Social Media Use
I am seeing more questions about the Cherubim name. Here is an easy explanation you can share:
“Mink, sepia, and solid Ragdolls will soon register as Cherubim in TICA.
Seal mink next to a seal point may come from the same litter, but one will be Ragdoll and the other Cherubim.
The Cherubim breed is a compromise that keeps pointed Ragdolls pure while recognizing the color lines Ann Baker created in the 70s.
The name comes from Ann’s original terminology and honors the breed’s full history.”
What are People Saying About the New Cherubim Ragdoll Breed?
Comment 1 – “I support the color classification”
Alyssa M.
“I support the new classification because Cherubims simply are not the same as pointed Ragdolls. I love the look of minks and sepias, but they follow a different color system. I wish breeders would stop labeling every non-pointed cat as a Ragdoll because it confuses buyers. The new name helps protect the traditional pointed standard.”
Comment 2 – “I Prefer Traditional, but Cherubims Are Cute”
Hannah S.
“I wanted a traditional pointed Ragdoll because I prefer breeders who focus on one standard. That said, I still think Cherubims look adorable, especially the solids. It’s a personal choice for me, not a judgment on the cats. I just wanted the classic look and a breeder who matched that focus.”
Comment 3 – “My Mink and Sepia Act Just Like My Old Ragdoll”
Lauren C.
“I had a traditional Ragdoll for years and recently adopted two Cherubims from the same breeder. One is a seal mitted mink, and she behaves exactly like my original Ragdoll. She’s floppy, sweet, and always nearby. The other is a sepia, and she’s very affectionate too, just taking a bit longer to become cuddly after her spay. I love them both, and their temperaments match the Ragdoll reputation perfectly.”
Comment 4 – “The Debate Is Exhausting”
Olivia K.
“I don’t understand why the arguments get so dramatic. My Cherubim kitten is sweet, confident, and social, just like my traditional Ragdoll. The color differences don’t change the personality. The whole traditional vs nontraditional debate feels blown out of proportion.”
Comment 5 – “Cherubims Feel Softer”
Jessica P.
“I have a blue point Ragdoll and a mink lynx mitted Cherubim. Their personalities are almost identical, but the mink coat feels extra soft. Both follow me everywhere, greet me at the door, and love cuddles. I chose them for temperament, not strict color rules.”
Comment 6 – “What Even Is a Cherubim?”
Evan R.
“I kept seeing the term Cherubim and had no clue what it meant. Now I know it refers to the mink, sepia, and solid Ragdoll lines. It helps separate the pointed standard from these full-color variants. The explanation made everything much clearer.”
Comment 7 – “Cherubims Still Belong to the Ragdoll Group”
Lily A.
“Cherubims share the same breed group as Ragdolls. The only difference comes from the color genes. Traditional Ragdolls have pointed coats and blue eyes. Cherubims can have mink, sepia, or solid coats, and their eyes can be aqua, gold, chartreuse, or green. They still have the same sweet temperament.”
Comment 8 – “Happy to See Recognition”
Daniel J.
“I’m glad TICA finally recognized Cherubims. I used to feel judged for owning a mink or sepia because many people insisted they weren’t ‘real.’ Now these beautiful cats get proper acknowledgment and their own standard.”
Comment 9 – “It felt scammy Before, I like the clarification”
Rachel F.
“I once bought a kitten advertised as a Ragdoll and but it was a mink color and everyone told me I got scammed and it wasn’t actually a ragdoll, I got from a backyard breeder etc. Really mean comments. Obviously, the kitten still had that lovable Ragdoll temperament. Now that the Cherubim category exists, new buyers won’t experience that confusion. Clear naming helps everyone.”
Comment 10 – “More Choices for Everyone”
Noah T.
“I think the new group benefits both sides. Traditional breeders keep their pointed standard. People who love minks and sepias now get recognition and clear labeling. It feels like a fair solution.
Myths About Cherubim Ragdolls
Myth 1: Cherubims are not real Ragdolls.
Many people assume Cherubims are mixed breeds. They are not. Cherubims come from the same Ragdoll foundation lines and share identical structure, temperament, and coat type. The only difference is color genetics. TICA recognizes Cherubims within the Ragdoll Breed Group.
Myth 2: Cherubim breeders work outside the standard.
Some claim Cherubim cats break breed rules. In reality, TICA created the Cherubim class to protect non-pointed genetics. Responsible breeders maintain health testing, pedigree tracking, and standard Ragdoll structure.
Myth 3: Cherubim kittens behave differently.
Temperament does not depend on color genes. Cherubim cats behave exactly like pointed Ragdolls. They are sweet, floppy, people-focused, and very social.
Myth 4: Cherubim cats cannot be shown.
TICA allows Cherubims in Exhibition, New Traits, Household Pet, and Championship classes beginning May 1, 2025. They show separately from pointed Ragdolls but remain within the same breed group.
Myth 5: Cherubim cats are low-quality Ragdolls.
This misconception grew from online arguments, not reality. Full-color Ragdolls come from lines Ann Baker herself created. They offer genetic diversity and maintain strong health and type through careful breeding.
FAQ About Cherubim Ragdolls
1. What is a Cherubim Ragdoll?
A Cherubim Ragdoll is a purebred Ragdoll that carries mink, sepia, or solid genetics instead of pointed coloring. These cats share the same structure, temperament, and lineage as traditional Ragdolls. The main difference involves coat and eye color. They fall under the Ragdoll Breed Group in TICA.
2. Are Cherubim cats real Ragdolls?
Yes. Cherubim cats are genetically Ragdolls. They have the same origins, bone structure, and personality traits. Only their color genetics differ.
3. Why did TICA create the Cherubim breed name?
TICA introduced the Cherubim classification to separate pointed Ragdolls from full-color, mink, and sepia cats. This decision preserves the original pointed standard while recognizing the color variations Ann Baker created decades ago. The change helps breeders avoid registration conflicts and improves clarity in global pedigrees.
4. When does the Cherubim classification begin?
The Cherubim designation becomes official on May 1, 2025. All kittens registered after that date will be classified according to color genetics. Cats registered before that date remain listed as Ragdolls unless owners request a change.
5. Why does the name “Cherubim” matter?
The term “Cherubim” honors Ann Baker’s original naming system. She used the word for her passive, indoor-only cats within her experimental lines. TICA selected the name because it connects directly to the breed’s historical roots. It also distinguishes color variations without creating an unrelated breed.
6. How do Cherubim cats differ from traditional Ragdolls?
Traditional Ragdolls are pointed and blue-eyed. Cherubim Ragdolls can be mink, sepia, or full-color solid. They show deeper body color and a wider range of eye colors. Yet both share the same gentle temperament and structure.
7. Are Cherubim Ragdolls purebred?
Yes. Cherubim cats trace directly back to Ragdoll foundation bloodlines. Their pedigrees remain within the Ragdoll Breed Group. They are not mixed breeds or outcrosses when bred responsibly.
8. Do Cherubim cats compete in Ragdoll shows?
Cherubim cats do not enter the pointed Ragdoll championship class. However, TICA offers classes such as New Traits, Exhibition, and Household Pet. The Cherubim breed will eventually have its own show class after May 1, 2025.
9. Can Cherubim cats produce pointed kittens?
Yes. If a Cherubim carries the pointed gene, it can produce pointed kittens when paired with another carrier. Genetics decide litter outcomes. Breeders use DNA testing to plan litters accurately.
10. Why do some people criticize Cherubim Ragdolls?
Some traditional-focused owners prefer pointed-only lines and misunderstand Cherubim genetics. A few believe Cherubims represent mixed breeding, even though pedigrees prove otherwise. Others simply prefer the look of pointed cats. Education often resolves confusion.
11. Do Cherubim cats appear in the same litter as pointed kittens?
Yes. A single litter can contain both traditional pointed kittens and Cherubim kittens. This depends entirely on the genetic combination of the parents. The difference does not affect temperament.
12. What colors can Cherubim Ragdolls be?
Cherubim colors include mink, sepia, and solids in every standard Ragdoll shade: seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, cream, and all lynx or tortie variations. These cats display richer body color and more contrast. Eye colors vary widely.
13. Are mink Ragdolls Cherubims?
Yes. Minks fall under the Cherubim classification. They carry one Burmese gene and one Siamese gene. This combination produces darker body shading and aqua eyes.
14. Are sepia Ragdolls Cherubims?
Yes. Sepias are Cherubim Ragdolls. They carry two Burmese genes, which create the darkest body color in the Ragdoll Breed Group. Eye colors often include gold, green, or chartreuse.
15. Are solid Ragdolls Cherubims?
Yes. Solid Ragdolls show full color without the pointed pattern. These cats can be black, blue, chocolate, or any standard color in solid form. They belong in the Cherubim group as well.
16. Why do some kittens look mink and others look pointed in the same litter?
Genetics decide color expression. Mink kittens show color from birth, while pointed kittens start white. Both forms are valid Ragdoll expressions depending on gene inheritance.
17. What is the difference between mink and sepia Ragdolls?
Mink cats carry one Burmese and one Siamese gene. Sepia cats carry two Burmese genes, which create deeper color. Mink sits between pointed and sepia on the spectrum.
18. What eye colors do Cherubim Ragdolls have?
Cherubim cats may have aqua, green, gold, hazel, or copper eyes. Eye color depends on the genetic combination of each cat. Only pointed Ragdolls must have blue eyes.
19. Is a mink Ragdoll still a real Ragdoll?
Yes. Minks share the same ancestry and temperament as pointed Ragdolls. They differ only in color genetics. TICA recognizes them as part of the Ragdoll Breed Group.
20. Do Cherubim Ragdolls behave like traditional Ragdolls?
Yes. Cherubims display the same relaxed, affectionate temperament. They enjoy companionship, soft play, and family routines. Their behavior mirrors pointed Ragdolls completely.
21. Are Cherubims healthier than pointed Ragdolls?
Both types share the same health risks and strengths. Responsible breeders test for HCM and PKD. Good care, nutrition, and genetics influence long-term health.
22. Why do some breeders avoid Cherubim lines?
Some breeders focus only on pointed show standards. Others prioritize consistency for competitions. However, many ethical breeders support Cherubim lines for genetic diversity.
23. Why are Cherubim cats valuable in breeding programs?
Cherubim lines expand genetic diversity. They help reduce bottlenecking within closed registries. They also preserve color lines that Ann Baker introduced decades ago.
24. Do Cherubim cats cost more?
Some do, depending on rarity and demand. Sepias and uncommon colors often cost more. Pricing also reflects health testing and breeder quality.
25. Are Cherubim kittens rare?
Yes. Many breeders produce pointed kittens more often. Cherubim colors appear less frequently depending on parental genetics. This creates waitlists.
26. Can Cherubims produce solids, minks, and sepias?
Yes. Their litters depend on gene combinations. Two Cherubims can produce a full range of colors, including pointed offspring when genetics align.
27. Do Cherubim cats show well in TICA?
Cherubim cats currently participate in Exhibition and New Traits. After May 1, 2025, they will compete in an official class. This helps improve recognition and standardization.
28. How rare are sepia Ragdolls?
Sepias are the darkest Cherubim type. They remain extremely rare because they require two copies of the Burmese gene. Few breeders produce them consistently.
29. What is the temperament difference between mink, sepia, and pointed cats?
Their behavior stays nearly identical. Differences lie in shading and eye color, not personality. Socialization impacts temperament more than genetics.
30. Should buyers choose a Cherubim or a pointed Ragdoll?
The choice depends on color preference. Both offer the same loving personality and body type. Cherubims simply offer more color options and deeper shading.
How can I reserve a Ragdoll kitten?
Submit an adoption application on the Almonte Cats website. Approved families are matched by temperament and color preference. Early reservations are recommended due to limited availability.
See our Available Ragdoll Kittens for Sale Here.
Related Colors and Patterns
- Black Ragdoll Cat Color
- Bicolor Ragdoll Kitten for Sale
- Chocolate Point Ragdoll Color
- Black and White Tuxedo Ragdolls
- Lilac Point Ragdoll
- How Much Does A Cinnamon Ragdoll Cost?
- Lynx Pattern Ragdoll Guide
- Blue Mitted Ragdolls
Summary
Cherubim Ragdolls represent the full-color branch of the Ragdoll breed group. They carry mink, sepia, or solid genetics instead of the traditional pointed pattern. Although their colors differ, Cherubim Ragdolls share the same origins, structure, temperament, and pedigrees as pointed Ragdolls. Their lineage traces directly back to the original Ragdoll foundation cats developed by Ann Baker.
At Almonte Cats, we raise Ragdolls for families who value beauty, temperament, and trust. Every kitten carries our promise of health, love, and lifelong support.
Sources & References
- The International Cat Association (TICA). “Ragdoll Breed Standard.”
https://tica.org/breeds/browse-all-breeds?view=article&id=859- Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). “Ragdoll Cat Breed Profile.”
https://cfa.org/ragdoll/- Ragdoll Fanciers Club International (RFCI). “Ragdoll Color and Pattern Guide.”
https://rfci.org/- Messybeast Cat Genetics. “Color Genetics in Cats – Pointed, Bicolor, and Mink Patterns.”
https://www.messybeast.com/genetics.htm- 10 Things to Know About Ragdolls
- The Spruce Pets. “Ragdoll Cat: Breed Facts and Care Tips.”
https://www.thesprucepets.com/ragdoll-cat-breed-profile-554021- Almonte Cats. “Our Bicolor Ragdoll Breeding Program.”
https://almontecats.com
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