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July 26, 2026Sources cited
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Science & Nature • Cat breed

Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is a large, blue-eyed domestic cat breed known for its semi-long, silky coat and notably docile, affectionate temperament.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Ragdoll is a large, blue-eyed domestic cat breed known for its semi-long, silky coat and notably docile, affectionate temperament. Developed in California in the 1960s by breeder Ann Baker, it is widely described as a laid-back, people-oriented companion cat. In Canada, Ragdolls are a popular choice for households seeking a large, gentle, indoor-oriented pet.

History

The Ragdoll breed was developed in the 1960s in California by Ann Baker. The breed’s early development is associated with selected longhaired cats and a focus on temperament and appearance.

Appearance

Ragdolls are one of the largest domestic cat breeds. They have a semi-long, silky coat, blue eyes, and a colourpoint pattern. Females may reach up to about 13 lb (6 kg), while males can reach up to about 20 lb (9 kg). The breed matures slowly and may take several years to reach full coat and colour.

Temperament

The breed is widely described as docile, affectionate, relaxed, and sociable. Ragdolls are often known for following people around, enjoying human company, and tolerating handling well. They are known for being gentle, affectionate, and easy-going.

Care and health

Ragdolls are generally considered a slow-maturing breed and may continue developing physically for several years. Like all breeds, they can be prone to some health issues, so routine veterinary care is important. They commonly live about 12–17 years, and some live into their late teens.

Key facts

  • Ragdolls are one of the largest domestic cat breeds.
  • They are recognised for their pointed coat pattern and blue eyes.
  • The breed is known for being gentle, affectionate, and easy-going.
  • Ragdolls were developed by Ann Baker in the 1960s in California.
  • They are often described as highly social companion cats.
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Canadian context

Ragdolls are a popular companion cat breed in Canada, especially among households looking for a large, gentle, indoor-oriented pet. Canadian readers may encounter them through breeders, rescues, and cat associations that follow international breed standards.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Ragdoll cat?
A Ragdoll cat is a large domestic cat breed known for its blue eyes, semi-long silky coat, and calm, affectionate nature.
How big do Ragdoll cats get?
They are one of the largest cat breeds. Females may reach about 13 lb (6 kg), while males can reach about 20 lb (9 kg).
Are Ragdoll cats hypoallergenic?
No. Ragdolls are not considered hypoallergenic.
How long do Ragdoll cats live?
They commonly live about 12–17 years, and some live into their late teens.
What is the temperament of a Ragdoll cat?
Ragdolls are typically docile, affectionate, easy-going, and highly sociable companion cats.
How much does a Ragdoll cat cost?
Prices vary widely by breeder, pedigree, location, and whether the cat is pet-quality or show-quality; exact costs are not consistent across the provided sources.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ragdoll
    Supports: Breed overview, origin in the 1960s, large size, blue eyes, and docile temperament.
  2. The International Cat Association — https://tica.org/breed/ragdoll/
    Supports: Describes Ragdoll as a large, affectionate, semi-longhaired cat with blue eyes.
  3. Royal Canin — https://www.royalcanin.com/is/cats/breeds/ragdoll
    Supports: Provides size range, temperament, and lifespan information.
  4. Chewy — https://www.chewy.com/education/cat-breeds/ragdoll-cat
    Supports: Provides lifespan, size, and note that the breed is not hypoallergenic.
  5. Purina — https://www.purina.com/cats/cat-breeds/ragdoll
    Supports: Describes temperament, size, coat, and general breed characteristics.
  6. Cat Fanciers' Association — https://cfa.org/breed/ragdoll/
    Supports: Breed standard description, slow maturation, and temperament traits.
  7. PetMD — https://www.petmd.com/cat/breeds/ragdoll
    Supports: Explains the name’s relation to floppiness when handled and gives size/coat details.