10 Facts

10 Ragdoll Facts Every Cat Lover Should Know

1.  They’re from the West Coast
Ragdolls were created by Ann Baker in Riverside, California in 1963.  She wanted to develop a large cat with a long coat and gentle personality.  While the breed grew in popularity quickly, Baker reportedly invented wild stories about the breed’s origins and set up her own registry to try and enforce strict standards on the breed.

2.  Ragdolls Go Limp When You Pick Them Up
Many people love Ragdolls because they go limp when you pick them up, just like a Ragdoll.  They love to be held and cuddled, and they’re one of the most affectionate cat breeds.

3.  They’re One of the Largest Domestic Cat Breeds
Like the Maine Coon, Ragdolls are a large breed. Males may weigh up to 20 pounds while females may weigh up to 15 pounds.  But their large size doesn’t stop them from seeking affection – they love to be carried around (which can be a workout for you!).

4.  Blue Eyes
Ragdolls are known for their striking blue eyes.  Ragdoll kittens are all born with blue eyes but some will deepen as the cat grows older.

5.  Fur Can Be Many Different Patterns and Colors
There are many variations of Ragdoll coats, but in general they will have a lighter body combined with a darker face, legs, tail and ears.  Ragdolls may be lilac, red, blue, chocolate, cream, or seal, and there are four possible patterns:

Mitted - with white paws (like mittens)
Van - which is a solid body with darker coloring on the head, ears and tail (rare)
Bicolor - which is a white chest, legs, stomach, and neck along with a face mask in the shape of an upside-down “V”
Colorpoint - which has darker-colored “points” on its face, ears, legs, and tail

6.  Perfect Lap Kitties
If you’re looking for a snuggler, look no further than a Ragdoll.  While some cats prefer to explore and get into mischief, Ragdolls like to stay by your side.

7.  The Algonquin Hotel Cat Is a Ragdoll
The Algonquin Hotel in New York City has had a resident cat (actually 10 of them) since the 1930s.  Matilda, a Ragdoll, is the historic hotel’s current reigning cat.

8.  They Love Running Water
Ragdolls are intrigued by the sound of running water (although they enjoy all forms of water).  When you turn on the shower, bath or tap, your Ragdoll may come running.

9.  They’re Surrounded by Mystery
There are many myths surrounding Ragdolls, although most of them are thought to have been started by their creator Ann Baker.  Among them, Ragdolls are said to be fearless, impervious to pain, alien hybrids, and products of genetic modification.

10.  A Perfect Family Cat
Ragdolls’ docile personalities make them a perfect breed for families with children.  They also get along well with other cats and cat-friendly dogs.  Ragdolls are even sometimes called “puppy cats” because they like to follow people around and even play fetch.