Fellow ragdoll cat lovers, this post is for you! In this blog, we’re going to explore 7 fascinating facts about ragdoll cats that will make you fall in love with them even more.
Facts About Ragdoll Cats #1 – Ragdolls Are a Relatively ‘New’ Breed
Ragdoll cats were first bred in California in the 1960s by American breeder, Ann Baker.
She wanted to create a cat breed with a docile temperament and striking blue eyes. She achieved this by selectively breeding cats with specific traits, such as long fur and a laid-back personality.
Ann Baker, we are forever grateful to you for bringing ragdoll cats into this world!
Facts About Ragdoll Cats #2 – Ragdolls Are Bigger Than Your Average Moggy
Ragdolls are larger in size than the average domestic cat. Male ragdoll cats can weigh anywhere between 10 to 20 pounds on average (4.5 to 9 kgs), with females typically weighing slightly less; between 8 to 15 pounds, or 3.5 to 7 kgs.
Bonus fact: Ragdoll cats keep growing until they’re around 4 years old, so if your ragdoll isn’t reaching the average weights we discussed just yet, don’t panic!
Ragdoll Cat Fact #3 – Ragdolls Are Called Ragdolls Due to Their Soppy Nature!
Ragdoll cats are known for their calm and gentle nature. They are called ragdolls because they will quite literally flop in your arms if you pick them up, just like a ragdoll.
It’s safe to say that our two ragdoll cats, Mr.Fudge and Teddy (pictured below) definitely live up to their ragdoll name!
Because of their size and sweet temperament, ragdolls are often referred to as “gentle giants”. Ragdolls are extremely affectionate and enjoy being held and cuddled, plus they are also great with children and other pets, making them an ideal family pet.
Facts About Ragdoll Cats #4 – Ragdolls Come In a Wide Variety of Colors & Patterns
Ragdolls come in a variety of colors and patterns. Their characteristics can be defined by their color, points, and markings.
Ragdoll cat colors include:
- Chocolate & seal ragdoll cats – Ragdoll cats with brown markings.
- Blue – Ragdoll cats with silver markings.
- Lilac – Floppycats has an awesome guide on Lilac ragdoll cats.
- Flame ragdolls – Ragdoll cats with orange markings.
- Cream – Ragdoll cats which are predominately cream in color.
Other colors of ragdoll are available, such as black ragdoll cats. However, some types of ragdoll cats aren’t officially recognized within the breeding standards set by organizations such as TICA.
But, if you want our opinion, don’t let that put you off! All color varieties of ragdoll cats typically still have the same characteristics as ‘official’ ragdoll cats, such as being laid back and super friendly, making them the perfect companion.
Alongside the different colors of ragdoll, ragdoll cat patterns include:
- Colourpoint – Like our chocolate pointed ragdoll, Mr.Fudge.
- Mitted
- Bicolor
- Lynx – Lynx ragdoll cats have tabby-like markings.
- Sepia – Like our seal sepia mink ragdoll, Teddy. Find out more about Mr.Fudge and Teddy here!
Coppermine Ragdolls has produced the most incredible guide to ragdoll cat colors and patterns if you want to learn more.
Facts About Ragdoll Cats #5 – Ragdolls Are Easy to Groom
Despite their long fur, ragdoll cats are relatively easy to groom. Their fur doesn’t mat easily, and brushing once or twice a week is usually sufficient to keep it in good condition.
Also, ragdolls really enjoy the attention from brushing, and will often purr contentedly during grooming sessions, just like our little boy Teddy, picture below!
If you’re searching for the best brush for your ragdoll, explore the best combs for ragdoll cats in our complete guide.
Ragdoll Cat Fact #6 – Ragdolls Play Fetch!
Yes, you read that right. Ragdolls have a playful side and enjoy interactive toys and games! Our seal-pointed ragdoll, Mr.Fudge, has played fetch since he was a kitten.
His favorite toys to play fetch with include pieces of aluminum foil, pens lids, and only occasionally, balls!
Ragdolls are intelligent cats that can be easily trained – from using their litter box to performing tricks. However, because ragdoll cats are so curious by nature and love exploring their surroundings it’s important to provide them with plenty of stimulation in the form of toys and scratching posts placed around your house.
Facts About Ragdoll Cats #7 – Ragdolls Typically Live Inside
Ragdoll cats are most suited as an indoor cat breed.
Why? Because ragdoll cats are so friendly and inquisitive, they can easily get lost or get themselves into trouble accidentally – like getting stuck somewhere or hurting themselves.
Also, although we hate to think about it, because ragdolls are so friendly and floppy, as well as beautiful and expensive, they are more likely to be stolen than other cat breeds, so many ragdoll owners choose to keep them inside.
However, that’s not to say they can’t enjoy the outdoors under supervision. We use cat harnesses for our two ragdoll cats, which we use in the spring and summer months.
In addition, a lot of other ragdoll cat owners will cat-proof their gardens (such as with the Oscillot or Protectapet systems) or have catios. We are currently renovating our house but once it’s done, a catio is on our list to create!
Check out the below video from Kitten Lady which shows the ultimate catio!
What’s Your Favorite Fact About Ragdoll Cats?
It’s true, ragdoll cats really are the best companions. Not only because of their striking appearance, gentle nature, and playful personality but also their ability to bring joy to every situation!
We could keep going with fun facts about ragdoll cats all day, but do you have a fact we didn’t list? We’d love to hear from you!
