Ragdoll cats are a popular breed known to be the “dog-like” of all cat breeds due to their loyalty and calm personality. Let us tell you more.
Ragdoll Cats
The Ragdoll cat is a loving and gentle companion, perfect for sharing your home. While they’re friendly with guests and naturally curious, their favourite activities are playing and snuggling. With their beautiful, uniquely marked coats, it’s easy to see why they enjoy being pampered.
Known for their compatibility with children, Ragdoll’s often curl up on laps or watch from a distance while you garden. However, don’t expect them to engage in anything too strenuous!
Cat Characteristics
- Coat Colours & Patterns:
Ragdoll cats come in several beautiful colours & patterns, including seal, blue, red, lilac, chocolate, cream and tortoiseshell. - Coat Types: Their coats are semi-longhaired
- Height: 23cm – 28cm
- Length: 43cm – 53cm
- Weight: Males – 6.8 kg – 9.1 kg, Females – 4.5 kg – 6.8 kg
- Lifespan: Between 12 – 15 years
- Temperament: Affectionate, People Orientated, Laid Back, Friendly, Playful
- Origin: Riverside, California
History of Ragdoll Cats
The Ragdoll cat breed was developed by a breeder named Ann Baker, who is credited with creating the Ragdoll through a strict selective breeding plan.
The breed started with her cat, that was a crossbreed of Persian and Angora. Her kittens were particularly docile, with an affectionate temperament. She continued to breed her cat with other cats that had similar temperaments and physical characteristics, particularly focusing on their gentle nature, striking blue eyes, and plush, semi-longhaired coats.
The breed quickly gained popularity due to its unique temperament and appearance, and it was officially recognised by cat registries in the 1960s and 1970s.
Ragdoll Kittens
Ragdoll kittens are often sought after due to their striking blue eyes, soft fur, and gentle personalities. They are born completely white, and their coat colours and patterns develop as they grow. By the time they are 8 to 12 weeks old, their markings and colours start to become visible.
Ragdoll kittens are relatively large compared to other breeds. They have a sturdy, well-built frame that continues to grow rapidly during their first few months. They do however have a slow maturation process. They reach their full size and coat development by the age of 3 to 4 years, which is a lot later than many other cat breeds.
Ragdoll cat personality
Ragdoll’s are playful and curious creatures that enjoy interactive toys, climbing, and exploring their environment. They are not overly hyperactive but do enjoy bursts of playtime.
From a young age, Ragdoll kittens are affectionate and enjoy being held and cuddled and this continues as they get older.
In general they are friendly with people and other pets, making them a great addition to multi-pet households. They also tend to adapt well to new environments and are usually not shy around strangers.
General Ragdoll Care
- Grooming: As Ragdolls have soft, semi-longhaired coats they require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Brushing them 2-3 times a week will help keep their fur in good condition.
- Diet: Like all cats, Ragdolls need a diet that is rich in nutrients to support their growth and well-being. High-quality food with the right balance of proteins, fats, and vitamins is essential.
- Health: Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor their growth when younger to ensure they are growing at the right rate.
- Litter Training: Ragdoll cats are typically easy to litter train. They are intelligent and usually catch on quickly with consistent guidance and training.
- Socialisation: Early socialisation is important for Ragdoll kittens to make sure they grow up to be well-adjusted adults. Exposing them to different people, pets, and environments will help them become more confident and relaxed.
5 Interesting Facts About Ragdoll Cats
- Ragdoll cats go limp when picked up
As their name suggests, they often feel like a ragdoll as they relax and go limp when cuddled. - Ragdoll eyes are always blue
A defining characteristic of this breed is their vivid blue eyes. - Ragdoll kittens are born pure white
Their colouring and marking only start to show as they mature, similar to the dalmatian dog. - Ragdoll cats have ‘dog-like’ traits
This breed exhibits dog-like behaviour, such as greeting their owners at the door, following them around the house, and even playing fetch. - Ragdoll cats are quiet
If you want a pet that doesn’t make much noise a ragdoll could be for you. They are known for being overly vocal, and when they are their vocal tone tends to be soft and quiet.

COMMUNITY PICTURES

NAME: G
BREED: Ragdoll Mix
LIVES: Essex, UK
“G is a big, loveable boy who although is a Ragdoll mix has all of the characteristics of the breed. He always wants cuddles and acts more like a dog than my dog does.”





