Docile and sweet, the Ragdoll cat is a popular cat breed known for its striking blue eyes and variety of colors, including seal blue, chocolate lilac, red cream, and lilac red. This breed Ragdoll is beloved by families and individuals alike for its friendly demeanor and laid back nature. Ragdolls, known for their color point patterns and bear white coats, love to assume the role of best buddy, spending their days playing and bonding with their owners. Whether you have a blue chocolate or a color ragdoll, their affectionate companionship is unmatched.

How long do Ragdoll cats live? - 12 - 17 years.

How big do Ragdoll cats get? - 4.5kg to 9.0kg.

Breed Ragdoll colours - Ragdoll cats feature three distinct color patterns, each available in four different colors.

• Ragdoll Cats are ideal for first time cat owners.
• This cat breed loves playing games and staying active at home.
• They Playful and inquisitive.
• Ragdoll cats are sociable and affectionate.
• This cat breed is moderately vocal.
• Ragdoll cats are larger, more robust cat breed.
• Ragdolls Need daily grooming.
• They Enjoy both indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Ragdoll cats are perfect for families.
• They Can be left alone during the day.
• This cat breed are suited for a relaxed household.

The Ragdoll cat breed can be prone to the following health problems:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A health problem where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick, affecting the heart's ability to beat effectively.

• Polycystic Kidney Disease: An inherited health problem where cysts form in the kidneys, impairing their function and potentially leading to kidney failure. However, the risk of this disease in Ragdoll cats is lower compared to other breeds prone to this condition.

Testing Available:

• DNA Testing: For Ragdoll hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and polycystic kidney disease, this testing determines if a Ragdoll cat has the potential to be affected by these health problems.

The Ragdoll personality is often described as ‘astonishingly equable,’ making it a thoroughly agreeable, relaxed, and affectionate companion. This cat breed, known for its beautiful appearance and gentle, languid nature, is so irresistible that owners rarely have just one Ragdoll cat.

Ragdolls have a curious personality and enjoy being involved in your daily activities. They prefer easy care activities like lounging a radiator cat bed or watching from a sunny spot while you garden, rather than engaging in anything too strenuous.

There was once a misconception that Ragdolls were excessively floppy, had a lower pain threshold, and would simply ‘flop’ when picked up, leading some to believe they would make excellent playthings for children. However, this is not true. Ragdoll cats have the same pain threshold as all cats and will not tolerate being treated as toys by children or anyone else.

The Ragdoll cat is a strikingly large and luxuriantly coated cat breed. Beneath its impressive silky, dense, and semi long to long haired coat lies a muscular body with a broad chest, short neck, and sturdy legs. The tail is long and bushy, and as the cat matures, the coat develops fluffy trousers on the hind legs and a majestic ruff around the neck and throat.

The Ragdoll cat comes in three distinct coat patterns:

• Color point: Characterized by a lighter body with darker points on the ears, face, paws, and tail.

• Mitted: Similar to the Color point pattern, but with white paws and a white chin. They often have a white stripe running down their bellies.

• Bicolor: Features a white inverted "V" on the face, white legs, and often a white belly and back.

• Family-friendly:  5/5
• Playfulness:  5/5
• Intelligence:  4/5
• Tendency to Vocalize:  4/5
• Likes Other Pets:  5/5
• Grooming needs:  5/5
• Shedding:  5/5

The Ragdoll breed was intentionally developed in the early 1960s by Ann Baker, a cat breeder based in California. Ann Baker used an Angora type cat, a seal mitted male (known for white gloves and boots over a Siamese type color), and a solid black cat to establish the foundation of the Ragdolls cats.

It wasn’t until 1981 that Ragdoll cats were introduced to the UK by two separate breeders. The goal behind Ann Baker's creation of the Ragdoll was to produce a glamorous cat with a notably laid back, relaxed nature, ideal as a family companion. It's safe to say this goal was achieved as the Ragdoll cat is renowned for its super chilled attitude towards life!

Ragdoll cats thrive with access to a secure outdoor space where they can climb and play. However, they may need encouragement as they tend to avoid 'long wet grass' and unfavorable weather conditions ('not sunny'). Expect to engage in activities with them as Ragdoll cats are unlikely to exercise independently.

Due to their laid back nature, Ragdolls are not suited for free access to the outdoors as they may not actively avoid danger, and their attractive appearance may make them a target for theft.

As a large and robust Ragdoll cat breed, they naturally lean towards laziness if not actively encouraged and motivated to play and exercise. This predisposition can lead to weight issues in Ragdolls. It's essential to dedicate time each day to interact with your Ragdoll, engaging them in playful activities such as chasing and hunting games. Encourage them to climb cat trees and explore other play equipment to keep them active, best options are listed below.

• Whack A Mole Cat Toy - Watch as your Ragdoll cat pounces and swats at the moles, providing hours of entertainment and exercise.

• Flying Bird Cat Toy - Stimulates Ragdoll Cats natural hunting instincts, encourages exercise, and provides mental stimulation.

• Automatic Cat Toy - For self play benefits cats by providing entertainment and exercise when they're alone.

• Cat Fishing Rod Toy - This Toy benefits cats by providing exercise, mental stimulation, bonding opportunities with their owners.

Monitor their diet closely, ensuring they receive appropriate Ragdoll cat food portions and possibly incorporating dry food to maintain their health and weight. This proactive approach not only enhances their physical well being but also showcases their beautiful and charming Ragdoll personality.

Each cat is unique, with individual preferences and nutritional needs. As obligate carnivores, cats require 41 specific nutrients from their food. The proportions of these nutrients vary based on age, lifestyle, and health. For instance, a growing kitten needs a different nutrient balance than a less active senior cat.

It's crucial to feed cats the right quantity of food to maintain their 'ideal body condition,' following feeding guidelines tailored to their specific needs. Additionally, accommodating their preference for wet or dry cat food is important.

Find out more about cat nutrition with our article.

Regular grooming is essential for Ragdoll cats from kittenhood, especially during transitions between their kitten and adult coats, as well as during their annual molting periods when mats can form easily. To make grooming a positive experience, introduce it gradually, offering treats and praise. Given their large size, grooming may take some time, so patience is key.

Consider investing in a high quality grooming kit, we recommend the Walnut Grooming Set as an excellent choice for Ragdoll cats.

A greasy coat can indicate that a Ragdoll cat is not grooming properly, which may signal underlying health issues. Like all cats, Ragdolls benefit from regular vaccinations, flea control measures , and annual veterinary check ups to maintain their health.

Ragdoll Cats thrive in homes where people are present throughout the day, alongside other Ragdolls or older children who understand their needs and respect their space requirements.

• While Ragdoll cats vary in appearance, it may surprise you to learn that all Ragdolls are born pure white. Their distinctive colors and patterns develop gradually within the first week or two of their lives.

• The Ragdoll cat's personality often gives the impression of being as affectionate as a cuddly dog. You may observe them patiently waiting for their owners to return home or proudly carrying their favorite toys in their mouths. They particularly enjoy playing fetch and eagerly anticipate playtime.

• All Ragdoll cats possess striking blue eyes, a hallmark of the breed's purity. However, if you observe different shades of green or yellow in their eyes, it could suggest they are not purebred Ragdolls.

• Ragdoll cats are slow to mature, typically reaching full size around the age of 4, with some individuals continuing to develop beyond that.

1. How long do Ragdoll Cats live?

Ragdoll cats generally have a lifespan of around 12 to 15 years, although some may live longer with proper care and a healthy lifestyle.

2. How much are Ragdoll Cats?

Ragdoll cats in the UK typically range in price from £400 to £1,500, depending on factors such as lineage, pedigree, and breeder reputation. Prices can vary widely based on the quality and characteristics of the cat.

3. How to identify a Ragdoll Cat?

To identify a Ragdoll cat, look for their large size, semi long fur with a silky texture, distinct patterns (colorpoint, mitted, bicolor), and striking blue eyes. They are known for their friendly and affectionate personality.

4. Where are Ragdoll Cats from?

Ragdoll cats originate from the United States, specifically developed in the early 1960s by Ann Baker in California.

5. Why can't Ragdoll Cats go outside?

Ragdoll cats shouldn't go outside unsupervised due to safety risks like traffic accidents and predators, health concerns, and the risk of getting lost.

6. Why are Ragdoll Cats called Ragdoll?

Ragdoll cats are called "Ragdoll" because of their tendency to go limp and relaxed when picked up or held, much like a child's ragdoll toy. This trait is a distinctive characteristic of the breed and contributes to their unique name.

7. Why do Ragdoll Cats go limp?

Ragdoll cats have a unique temperament trait where they tend to go limp or completely relaxed when picked up or held. This behavior is believed to be a result of their genetic makeup and their innate trust in humans. Ragdolls are known for their docile and gentle nature, and their tendency to go limp may be a way of showing submission or trust towards their owners. This behavior is not seen in all cats and is one of the distinctive features that sets Ragdolls apart from other breeds.

8. Do Ragdoll Cats like to be held?

Yes, Ragdoll cats generally enjoy being held and cuddled. They may go limp when picked up, earning them the nickname "Ragdoll."

9. Do Ragdoll Cats like water?

Some Ragdoll cats may enjoy playing with water, but it varies by individual. Most are not particularly fond of water compared to breeds like the Maine Coon.

10. Are Ragdoll cats Hypoallergenic?

Ragdoll cats are not hypoallergenic, but some people with allergies may tolerate them better than other breeds due to their lower production of allergenic proteins.