Ragdoll

Ragdolls are big cats; they mature slowly and only reach their full size at age 4. They’re also big softies; their name comes from their tendency to go floppy when picked up. They’re just as happy letting children play with them, as they are curling up by an adult’s feet.

Snapshot

Maintenance

Due to their semi-long hair ragdolls need combing twice a week to prevent mats and tangles. This will also prevent excessive shedding.

Ego

Chilled out.

Intelligence

They’re easygoing, this could be a sign of stupidity, but we reckon they’re too smart to get stressed.

Sociability

Ragdolls love people, sometimes following them from room to room. Yes, that includes the bathroom.

Celebrity Doppelgänger

Portia de Rossi

Scratching

They aren't big scratchers or particularly destructive.

Popular Names

Nana, Cappuccino, Teddy Bear

Health & Care

Ragdolls are generally quite a healthy breed, but they can carry a gene that leads to a heart condition known as HCM (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy). This causes thickening of the heart muscle and can lead to heart failure at an early age.

Key Facts

AVERAGE LIFESPAN
12 - 15+ years
AVERAGE WEIGHT
4.5 - 8+ kg

Common Conditions

Heart Disease (HMC)

A DNA test that can recognise the defective gene that causes HCM became available for Ragdolls in 2007. Since then, UK breeders have been able to identify and help remove this gene from the Ragdoll pool. You should always check with breeders that your kitten has been checked.

Tip for first-time owners

Ragdoll kittens have rapid growth spurts so it’s important that they can always access lots of food (we’re jealous!). You should only ration their food portions once they reach full size.

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