Ragdoll: The large, gentle cat that goes limp when you hold it

The Ragdoll is one of the softest-natured cats: when you pick it up, its body relaxes and goes limp, like a rag doll — which is exactly where its name comes from. It is large and easy-going, and a favourite companion cat in many homes. Let's meet it.

Its body

The Ragdoll is a large, semi-longhaired cat; males can weigh 6 to 9 kilograms, sturdier than most cats. It has a colourpoint face, ears and tail, with striking blue eyes. Its coat is soft and fluffy, like a cloud to the touch. It matures very slowly, usually reaching full size only at three to four years old — so its "growing up" phase lasts a long time.

Its personality and origins

The Ragdoll was bred by Ann Baker in 1960s California. It is deeply attached to people and very tolerant, rarely resisting, gentle enough that it seems you can hold it any way at all. That nature makes it well suited to families with children.

Why it does best indoors

Precisely because it is so gentle and trusting, the Ragdoll is a poor candidate for free-roaming outdoor life — it does not know to avoid cars and dangers, and is easily hurt outside. A safe, enriched indoor home (with a cat tree and toys) is what keeps it healthy and happy.

A note for grown-ups

You could talk with a child about how gentleness also needs protection: the Ragdoll is sweet-natured, but it relies on us to prepare a safe home. Teaching a child to think for a pet's sake is one of the best ways to build responsibility.