Ragdoll Cat GuideColourpoint
Dark points with no white. The classic look most people picture when they think of the breed.
Semi-longhaired, blue-eyed and famously calm
Living with a Ragdoll
Ragdolls have a reputation for going limp when you pick them up, following their people from room to room and greeting visitors at the door. This guide gathers the practical side of the breed: where it comes from, what it needs day to day, and how to find a kitten from a careful breeder.
A short history of the breed
The Ragdoll was developed in the 1960s in Riverside, California, by breeder Ann Baker. Her early cats were large, gentle and pointed, with blue eyes and a soft semi-long coat. Other breeders took the line further in the following decades, and the Ragdoll is now recognised by the major cat registries in Europe and North America.
Despite the legends that grew around its origins, there is nothing mysterious about the breed's character. Ragdolls are simply the result of years of selection for a relaxed, people-oriented temperament. They tend to be quiet, rarely climb to the highest shelf in the house and usually prefer a lap or a sofa to a cat tree.
Coat, colours and size
Every Ragdoll is a pointed cat: the body is lighter, while the ears, face, legs and tail carry the darker colour. Kittens are born almost white and their points develop over the first months.
Mitted
Points like a colourpoint, but with white front paws, white back legs and a white chin.
Bicolour
A white inverted V on the face, white legs and a white underside, with colour on the back and tail.
Colours
Seal, blue, chocolate and lilac are the traditional colours, alongside red, cream, tortie and lynx variations.
Ragdolls are large and slow to mature. Many keep growing until three or four years old. Adult males are often clearly heavier than females, so a Ragdoll needs a sturdy scratching post and a litter tray large enough for a big cat.
Everyday care
The coat is silky and has less undercoat than many longhaired breeds, so it mats less easily. A good comb-through once or twice a week is usually enough, with extra attention behind the ears, under the legs and during the spring moult.
- Indoor life or a secure garden. Ragdolls are trusting and not very street-wise, so most owners keep them indoors or build a cat-proof enclosure.
- Company. They dislike long days alone. A second cat or a household where someone is often at home suits them well.
- Play. They are not hyperactive, but short daily play sessions with a wand toy keep them fit and prevent weight gain.
- Food. A good quality diet adapted to a large, slow-growing cat, and careful portions once they are adults.
- Vet visits. Yearly check-ups, vaccinations and dental care, as for any cat.
Choosing a cattery
The best protection against health and temperament problems is a responsible breeder. A good cattery is usually happy to answer questions and will ask you a few in return.
- Registration. Kittens should come with a pedigree from a recognised cat association.
- Health testing. Ask about screening of the breeding cats, in particular the DNA test for the HCM mutation known in Ragdolls and regular heart scans.
- Age at departure. Reputable breeders let kittens go at around twelve to thirteen weeks, vaccinated, microchipped and used to normal household life.
- Visiting. Seeing the mother and the place where the kittens are raised tells you a lot about how they were socialised.
- A written contract. It should cover health guarantees and what happens if you can no longer keep the cat.
Be cautious with very cheap kittens, breeders who always have kittens available, or anyone who asks for payment before you have had a proper conversation.
Frequently asked questions
Are Ragdolls good with children and other pets?
Generally yes. Their patient nature makes them a popular choice for families, provided children learn to handle a cat gently. Most Ragdolls also get along with calm dogs when introduced slowly.
Useful links and further reading
A few other websites about cats and dogs that readers may find useful.
- Elite Noir et Feu, a French kennel breeding Beaucerons and Manchester Terriers, for readers who share their home with a dog as well as a cat.
- Éducateur canin Toulon, practical French advice on dog training and behaviour, useful when a new cat has to live alongside a dog.
Do Ragdolls shed a lot?
They shed moderately, with heavier moults in spring and autumn. Regular combing keeps loose hair under control and reduces hairballs.
Are Ragdolls hypoallergenic?
No. No cat breed is truly hypoallergenic. If someone in the household has allergies, spend time with adult Ragdolls before deciding.
How long do Ragdolls live?
With good care, many Ragdolls live into their early or mid teens. Choosing a kitten from health-tested parents gives the best start.