CAT BREEDS A-Z

Ragdoll
The Ragdoll is a breed of medium longhaired cat. It is best known for its docile and placid temperament and affectionate nature. It is perhaps the gentlest and most easy-going of breeds. They are non-aggressive to the point that many cats cannot or should not be let outside for prolonged periods as many will not defend themselves and most do not hunt. The name "Ragdoll" derived from the fact that many of these cats go completely limp and relax when picked up. Ragdolls have a sturdy body, short legs, and a thick coat with Siamese-style points.

History
The breed had its origin in California in the 1960s with a cat named Josephine. Several wild and scientifically impossible stories were put out by the colorful breed founder regarding the origin and development of the Ragdoll breed, including extraterrestrials, kittens' traits and personality being affected by the mother's being hit by a car, and genetic alteration using human genes. None of these legends are scientifically supportable.

What is known is that this breed was selectively bred over many years for desirable traits, such as large size, docility, and ability to go limp in the arms like a rag doll - hence the cat's name. There have been attempts to establish several competing ragdoll-type cats, among them the Ragamuffin. Most of these attempted breeds are not recognized as there is little difference between them and the already-recognized Ragdolls, however the Ragamuffin is recognized by some registries.

Characteristics
The Ragdoll is a large, semi-longhaired cat, exhibiting the pointed pattern in three varieties: colorpoint, bicolor, and mitted. Coat colors can be seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac point colors, either with or without markings on the face and feet. In some associations, they are also available in nonstandard colors, such as red (flame) and lynx point. Their long coats need minimal care and do not usually become matted, however elderly Ragdolls may require routine care similar to normal long-haired cats.

Ragdolls typically take up to 4 years to fully mature physically. An adult male can weigh between 12 and 20 lb, while the females can weigh between 10 and 15 lb.