MAIN Home Life Pets Cats & Kittens Ragdoll

Decorated with Siamese-like points, and a long soft coat like the Persian, the Ragdoll first originated through the selective work of a Persian breeder in California in the 1960's.

Since then, the Ragdoll has become one of America's most popular cat breeds, and gets its name from the tendency to go completely helpless and limp when picked up (a trait most often seen in fully grown cats than in kittens.)

Behavior & Personality

With their sweet dispositions and soft rabbit-like coats, Ragdolls make for excellent lap cats and are easily trainable.

Its general demeanor is so gentle, in fact, that breeders warn against allowing it outside for any length of time since it will rarely protect itself against attack, nor extend its claws even in play.

Often they will follow their human companions everywhere around the house, and are easilly collared and leashed for short walks outdoors.

Care & Health

No special care is required for Ragdolls other than an occasional brushing, especially around the hind quarters. With no known major health problems or diseases associated with it, the Ragdoll is a very hardy breed.

More information about Ragdoll cats around the Web:

Cat Fanciers' Association Ragdoll Profile - Expert tips on their grooming and care, with description of their behavior & personality, origins of the breed, photos, related resources.

Ragdoll Breed FAQ - Detailed description of physcial characteristics, temperament, care & feeding, training tips, related resources.

Ragdoll Fanciers Club International - Information for breeders, classified ads with photos of available cats & kittens, extensive history of Ragdoll origins, how to's for buying kittens, membership information, related links to Ragdoll clubs.

Ragdoll Cat Guide - Complete care guide with tips on feeding & training, online forum, feature articles, breeder list, FAQ, photo gallery.

The Ragdoll Connection Network - Online community offering information on the breed and its history & development, Q&A, breeder referrals, photo gallery, message boards and chat rooms.

UK Ragdoll Cat Community - Offering rehoming and rescue services, breeder list, photo gallery, online forums & chat room, related resources.