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Ragdoll cats are best summed up as large, stunning, and sociable. Their soft, medium-length coat resembles that of a Persian or Angora, while their robust build and puppy-like demeanor make them a top choice for cat enthusiasts. Discover seven fascinating details about America’s most beloved cat breed.
1. Ragdolls adore cuddling.
Ragdolls crave human interaction and, unlike many other cats, they genuinely enjoy being cradled. The breed’s name originates from their tendency to go completely relaxed and floppy, much like rag dolls, when held.
2. This breed has a modern origin.
Ann Baker, a California-based breeder in the 1960s, is recognized as the creator of the Ragdoll (she also secured the trademark for the name). Baker bred a stray longhaired white female cat from her neighborhood
One of the cats in the original Ragdoll lineage may have exhibited Siamese-like patterns, or Baker might have crossed the initial cat with Birman, Burmese, or Persian breeds. However, since the exact breeds used by Baker remain unclear, the origins of the Ragdoll’s signature color-pointed coat (a term referring to a lighter body with darker “points” on the face, legs, tail, and ears) are still shrouded in mystery.
3. Ragdolls boast striking blue eyes and stunning fur.
Admire those stunning blue eyes! | GlobalP/iStock via Getty ImagesBeyond their luxurious fur and sizable build, Ragdolls are celebrated for their vivid blue eyes and color-pointed coats. These cats display a wide array of colors, including seal (brown), blue, red, and cream. Patterns such as tortoiseshell and tabby are also prevalent. Ragdolls feature various coat designs, including colorpoint (no white), bicolor, and mitted (with white “mittens” on their paws). Born with lighter coats, their colors deepen into permanent shades as they mature.
4. They rank among the largest cat breeds.
The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) notes that male Ragdolls usually weigh between 15 and 20 pounds, while females range from 10 to 15 pounds. This makes them slightly larger than other hefty breeds like the Maine Coon, which can reach up to 18 pounds, and the Norwegian Forest Cat, which can weigh up to 16 pounds.
5. Ragdolls are known for their quiet nature.
Ragdolls are known for their gentle and quiet demeanor. This characteristic earned them a spot on Realtor.com’s list of top cat breeds for apartment living. However, this trait can be a drawback: Ragdolls may not vocalize when they’re in distress or pain, so it’s essential to handle them with care.
6. A Ragdoll holds the record for the longest-living "Janus cat."
A Janus cat, named after the two-faced Roman god Janus, is a feline born with two faces. The most renowned two-faced cat, Frank and Louie (also called Frankenlouie), was a Ragdoll. He had two functional eyes, a non-functional central eye, two noses, and two mouths.
Frankenlouie’s unique condition, known as diprosopia, is an extremely rare congenital defect. Despite predictions of a short life, Marty Stevens saved him from euthanasia. Frankenlouie defied expectations, living an impressive 15 years until his passing in 2014. His remarkable longevity earned him a place in Guinness World Records as the longest-lived Janus cat.
7. Ragdolls exhibit "dog-like" behavior.
Have you ever wished for a pet that plays fetch, trails you around the house, and shares your bed? If you’re allergic to dogs or simply prefer cats, a Ragdoll might be the perfect choice. "They often behave more like dogs than cats," a Quora user shared. "My Ragdolls greet me at the door, follow me everywhere, snuggle beside me on the couch and in bed, and even wait outside the bathroom. They adore stuffed animals and small toys, carrying them from room to room. One of them even plays fetch. If you prefer a more independent pet, the Ragdoll isn’t ideal—they thrive on constant attention and interaction."
This article was originally published in 2016 and has been revised for 2022.
