All about Ragdolls

Ragdolls at a Glance

The Ragdoll is a large, affectionate, semi-longhaired cat with captivating blue eyes. One of the largest breeds in the cat fancy, the Ragdoll gets along well with children and other pets, including dogs, often living up to its name as it gets carried around the house in a child's arms. These sturdy cats have no extreme features and blend easily into the busy modern household. Find out more about this breed and if the Ragdoll is right for you and your family.

• Temperament: Sweet, Loving, and Social
• Size: A large breed. Males can weigh up to 15-20 pounds, while females generally weigh 10-15 pounds.
• Colors: Ragdolls are a blue-eyed, pointed (darker face, legs, tail, and ears) cat. Ragdolls are lighter color on the body with definite contrast between body and point color. Ragdoll colors may be seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, cream, cinnamon, or fawn. They may be tortie and may have lynx stripes (tabby markings). There are three possible patterns:
  Colorpoint: Dark points with no white, lighter color on the body with definite contrast between body and point color.
  Mitted: Pointed with white paws (“mitts”) on the front feet, white “boots” on the hind feet, white chin & white belly stripe.
  Bicolor: White chest, legs, stomach & ruff, with white inverted V on the face.
• Life Expectancy: Many Ragdolls live to their mid- or high teens, however life expectancy varies on factors such as genetics and care.

About the Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is a relaxed, happy cat and, like a child's ragdoll, many of these cats will go limp in your arms and flop like a stuffed doll when cuddled. Generally, the Ragdoll is a loving, quiet cat with a laidback disposition. If you are looking for a very active cat or talkative cat, a Ragdoll probably is not the breed for your family. However, kittens and young adults can be very rambunctious, and most Ragdolls are always willing for some level of play.

Ragdolls are generally known for their tolerant attitudes with other animals, as well as with children. Often compared to dogs due to their friendliness and intelligence, they can be taught to play fetch. 

Activity Level 

Ragdolls are generally easy-going and calm, but they do love to play. Balls, catnip toys, and cat trees or other good scratching and resting areas are mandatory. Feather wands and other interactive toys are great for playing, exercise, and bonding time with the family. It is important to make sure your adult Ragdoll gets plenty of interactive playtime to help avoid excess weight gain. It is normal for them to have a thin layer of fat around their lower abdomen, but too much could indicate obesity. The best place to check for optimal weight and condition are along the spine and ribcage. Ask your veterinarian how to determine optimal body condition.