Ragdoll Cats

The Ragdoll is a medium longhair breed of cat. They are well known for a docile, easy going disposition and affectionate natures with their owners. They are the most easy going and gentle breed of cat. Ragdoll cats are not aggressive and should not be left outside as they will not defend themselves. Most Ragdoll cats do not hunt.

Ragdoll cats get their name from the way they go entirely limp like a “Ragdoll” when held. These cats have short legs, a sturdy and muscular body, and a thick, silky coat. Ragdoll cats have points similar to a Siamese cat.

The Ragdoll cat breed started in California during the 60s. The first Ragdoll was a mixed breed named Josephine. Ann Baker recognized the characteristics that have made Ragdoll cats famous and started selectively breeding for Josephine’s traits. She was an eccentric woman that went so far as to trademark the name “Ragdoll.” Ann Baker often told wild stories about her cats, stories that they were brought here by aliens and had been genetically altered. Ann Baker was never taken seriously and eventually secluded herself from the Ragdoll community.

Ragdoll cats are bred for a number of traits. These traits include their size, limpness when held, docile nature, and colors. There have been a number of offshoot breeds such as the Ragamuffins. Most of these offshoots are not officially recognized because they are so similar to the Ragdoll breed.

The Ragdoll cat is the largest breed of domestic cat. They have a pointed pattern that comes in three varieties. Ragdolls come with mitted, bi-color, and colorpoint markings. Their coats come in a variety of colors including chocolate, blue, seal, lilac, flame, and lynx. Adult males can weigh up to 20 pounds. The females weigh in between 10 and 15 pounds.