The Name

• "Ragdoll" was given by the original breeder Ann Baker, and is believed to be due to their relaxed attitude at being handled by their owners.

  
  

  Temperament

• Ragdolls are typically very placid and friendly cats, when socialised from birth they are attentive and affectionate members of the family and enjoy seeking out human companionship. They remain playful throughout their lives and are sometimes called "puppy-cats" because of their tendency to follow owners around the house and greet them on their return home.

  Ragdolls make good pets for homes with children as they are careful with their claws and teeth when in play and forgiving of accidental mistreatment.

• Because of their non-defensive nature, a Ragdoll should never be allowed outdoors unattended.

  
  

  Grooming

  The Ragdoll's rabbit-like fur is medium in length and has little shedding. It requires little, if any strict routine in grooming such as the Persian or Himalayan, however, as with all pets proper nutrition and occasional light grooming is necessary to keep their coats healthy and give them that characteristically fluffy appearance. Bathing is rarely needed but well tolerated, as are nail-clippings and vet visits. Ragdoll cats kept in a fairly constant temperature do not develop a huge winter coat.

  
  

  Size and Weight

• The Ragdoll is a large breed. On average Males are between 15-20 pounds. Females are smaller and weigh 10-15 pounds.
  Ragdolls are slow maturing cats, born white they don't obtain their full color until 2 years of age, (with the exception of the mink colours) and full size and weight at four years.

  
  

  Varieties

• Ragdolls come in 6 different colours - seal, chocolate, red, and "dilutes"; blue, lilac and cream, as well as three different patterns:
  Pointed (nose, ears, tail and paws in the specific colors & no white)
  Mitted white paws, chin and tummy, with or without a blaze (a white line on the face)
  Bicolour white legs, white inverted 'V' on the face, white tummy and often white patches on the back.
  
  Variations include a three-color "tortie-point" (mottled seal or blue with red present) and lynx (striped pattern on tail, face and points) otherwise known as tabby, which can be found in all 3 patterns.