Ragdoll
Gentle, relaxed, and endlessly loving
Quick answer: The Ragdoll is a large, affectionate cat known for its blue eyes, silky semi-long coat, and calm, people-focused personality.
Personality Traits
Quick Facts
Overview
The Ragdoll is known for its calm nature, affectionate personality, and striking blue eyes. This breed forms strong bonds with people and enjoys being close without being demanding. If you want a relaxed, loving companion, the Ragdoll is a classic and popular choice.
Personality & Temperament
Usually enjoys cuddles and being near people.
Enjoys play, especially with routine.
Adapts well to most households.
Learns routines fast; puzzle toys help a lot.
Personality in real life
Ragdolls are very affectionate and strongly people-oriented.
They tend to be calm and gentle rather than highly active.
Many enjoy being picked up and held.
They usually get along well with children and other pets.
They prefer company and don’t like being left alone too often.
History
The Ragdoll was developed in the United States in the 1960s by breeder Ann Baker in California.
Early cats in the breeding program showed an unusually relaxed temperament and a tendency to go limp when held, which inspired the breed’s name.
Breeders focused on preserving the calm personality, blue eyes, and colorpoint patterns while refining the large, sturdy body type.
Over time, the Ragdoll became widely recognized and grew into one of the most popular companion cat breeds in the world.
Appearance
Large, sturdy body with a solid, muscular feel.
Soft, silky semi-long coat that lies close to the body.
Always blue eyes.
Colorpoint, mitted, and bicolor patterns.
Overall look is gentle, substantial, and balanced.
Is a Ragdoll right for you?
Good fit if:
- • You want a calm, affectionate cat.
- • You enjoy close companionship and cuddling.
- • You live in a family home or with other pets.
- • You’re comfortable with moderate grooming.
Not ideal if:
- • You want a very independent cat.
- • You prefer a high-energy, very active breed.
- • You don’t want to brush a cat regularly.
Daily life with a Ragdoll
Energy level
Low to moderate. Short play sessions followed by lots of rest.
Noise level
Usually quiet and soft-spoken.
Attention needs
High. Bonds closely with people.
Grooming
Moderate. Regular brushing keeps the coat smooth and helps reduce shedding.
Things to Know Before Adopting
- • Needs regular brushing to prevent tangles.
- • Can become lonely if left alone too often.
- • Large size means higher food and litter costs.
- • Slow maturity compared to many other breeds.
Interesting Facts
Many Ragdolls relax completely when picked up.
CatsLib Team
Editorial & Research Team
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Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about this topic
1
What is a Ragdoll cat?
A Ragdoll is a large, gentle cat breed known for blue eyes, a silky semi-long coat, and a calm, affectionate personality.
2
Are Ragdoll cats friendly?
Yes. Ragdolls are known for being very friendly, affectionate, and people-focused.
3
Are Ragdoll cats hypoallergenic?
No. Ragdolls are not hypoallergenic and do shed like other cats.
4
Do Ragdoll cats shed?
Yes. Shedding is moderate and more noticeable during seasonal changes.
5
How big do Ragdoll cats get?
They are a large breed, commonly weighing between 10–20 lb (about 4.5–9.1 kg).
6
How long do Ragdoll cats live?
A typical lifespan is around 12–17 years with good care.
7
How much does a Ragdoll cat cost?
Ragdoll kittens are usually priced higher than average due to demand and responsible breeding.
8
Are Ragdoll cats expensive?
Yes. They are often considered an expensive breed compared to many others.
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