Ragdoll Cat Breed Guide
IRagdoll cat breed
Weight: Males 6-9kg, females 4-6kg
Wither height: Up to 40cm
Energy level: Calm
Lifespan: 7-12 years
Social need: Great
Colours:Ragdolls have a colourpoint pattern and come in various designs, such as point, mitted, and bicolor. Common colours include frost white, brown, chocolate, blue, seal grey, lilac, and red.
Health problems:Generally healthy, but can be prone to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a hereditary heart condition, and Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), a hereditary kidney condition.
Ragdoll Personality
The Ragdoll is known for its calm, loving, and affectionate nature. The name 'ragdoll' comes from their tendency to go limp and relaxed when picked up, much like a cloth doll. They enjoy cuddles, tend to follow their owners everywhere, and usually get along well with other pets. Plenty of playtime and mental stimulation is essential for their health and happiness, though they generally prefer calmer activities. Ragdolls make excellent indoor cats and benefit from opportunities to climb and observe their surroundings, such as with a cat tree.
Ragdoll Appearance and Grooming
Ragdolls are large, muscular, and powerfully built cats with long, soft fur. They mature slowly, often taking several years to reach their full size, and can weigh up to 9kg. A key characteristic of the breed is their distinctive colourpoint pattern and striking blue eyes. The fur lies close to the body and separates slightly when the cat moves. Ragdolls shed moderately and require some grooming, but their coat is relatively easy to manage as it lacks a dense undercoat. Brushing a couple of times a week helps to detangle any knots and keep their coat in good condition.
Ragdoll Health Concerns
While generally a healthy breed, Ragdolls can be predisposed to certain hereditary conditions. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited heart condition that can cause the heart muscle to thicken, potentially affecting its pumping efficiency. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is another inherited condition affecting the kidneys, which can impair kidney function and may lead to kidney failure if not managed appropriately.Ragdolls also have a tendency to gain weight.
Weight Management
Obesity is a common issue in cats today, and Ragdolls, being naturally calm and food-loving, are particularly prone to becoming overweight. Being overweight increases the risk of various common feline diseases. It's important to help your Ragdoll maintain a healthy weight – you can find more advice in the Lassie app.
Dental Health
Did you know that regular teeth brushing is crucial for your cat's health? Daily brushing is the best way to prevent conditions like periodontitis. You can learn more about this in our app. Dental disease FORL is common in cats and often occurs alongside periodontitis. While brushing your cat's teeth can be a challenge, using treats and plenty of patience can help them get used to it. Our app offers guidance on how to brush your cat's teeth effectively.
Poisoning Risks
Many everyday items can be toxic to cats, and it's worth being aware of them. For instance, certain plants can be harmful. You can find a list of poisonous plants for cats in the Lassie app. Other common household toxins include chocolate and rodent poison. Always store potentially dangerous items safely out of your cat's reach.
