Cat · Longhair (pointed)
Ragdoll
Blue-eyed, laid-back, and famous for going floppy in your arms.
- Origin
- California, United States
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 4.5–9 kg
- Lifespan
- 12–17 years
- Apartment-friendly
- Yes
Ragdolls are large, affectionate cats with semi-long coats and striking blue eyes. The breed was developed in the 1960s and gets its name from its tendency to relax completely when held.
They are generally calm, people-oriented indoor cats that enjoy company.
With children: Excellent — relaxed and tolerant, though gentle handling is still important.
The full profile
Temperament, exercise, grooming, training, feeding, health watch-list, and the ideal home.
💛 Temperament
Gentle, placid, and affectionate. Often follow owners around and greet them at the door.
🎾 Exercise
Moderate play; they are not highly active, so regular interactive play helps keep them fit.
🪮 Grooming
Silky coat with less undercoat than many longhairs; brush a couple of times a week.
🎓 Training
Can learn simple tricks and routines with rewards.
🥣 Feeding
Measured meals and wet food to support hydration.
Health watch-list
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
A breed-specific mutation exists; DNA testing and heart scans are recommended.
Bladder stones
Encourage water intake with fountains and wet food.
Obesity
Their relaxed nature means weight gain is common.
The ideal home
Indoor homes with gentle families, singles, or seniors wanting a calm companion.
Is a Ragdoll right for you?
✅ Often a great fit for
- Families with gentle children
- Indoor homes and flats
- Owners who want a calm, affectionate lap cat
- Homes with other relaxed pets
⚠️ Think twice
- If you want a highly independent cat
- If the cat would be allowed to roam — they are often too trusting
- If you cannot keep up with brushing
- If you buy from a breeder who does not screen for HCM
History of the Ragdoll
The Ragdoll was developed in California in the 1960s by breeder Ann Baker, starting from a white longhaired cat called Josephine. The name comes from the breed’s tendency to go limp when picked up.
Other breeders later refined and standardised the Ragdoll, and it is now one of the most popular breeds in many countries.
Fun fact
Ragdoll kittens are born white; their colour points develop over the first few years.
Breed profiles describe general tendencies — every animal is an individual. Health information here is general and not veterinary advice. Ask your veterinarian about screening, diet, and care for your own pet, and choose breeders or rescues who health-test and can answer your questions openly.