
Docile, calm, and affectionate. Ragdolls are known for going limp when picked up and their puppy-like devotion.
Personality and care at a glance
Height
23-28 cm9-11"
Weight
4.5-9 kg10-20 lbs
Lifespan
12-17 yrs
Large - Size category based on typical adult weight
Couch potato - content with short walks and lounging
Moderately trainable - learns with consistent effort
Regular grooming - weekly brushing
Rarely meows
How much this breed typically wants to be near their people versus enjoying time on their own.
Balanced companionship
How well Ragdoll matches your lifestyle
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Ragdoll comes in 6 recognized colors
Activity requirements for Ragdoll
Ragdolls have modest exercise needs. Short walks and light play sessions are typically sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
Low to moderate - enjoys interactive play
Gentle strolls around the neighborhood at a relaxed pace.
Light play sessions with toys indoors.
Leisurely walks focused on mental stimulation through sniffing.
Coat care and maintenance for Ragdoll
Ragdolls need regular grooming attention to maintain a healthy coat and prevent matting. Establish a consistent routine.
Brush 2-3 times per week to prevent tangles, remove dead hair, and keep the coat shiny and healthy. Increase to daily during seasonal shedding.
Bathe every 1-2 months or as needed. Over-bathing can strip natural protective oils from the coat.
Professional grooming is optional for nail trimming, ear cleaning, and deshedding treatments. Many owners handle grooming at home.
Check and clean ears weekly to prevent infections, especially in breeds with floppy ears.
Keep nails trimmed to a comfortable length. Long nails can cause pain and affect gait.
Training approach for Ragdoll
The Ragdoll is reasonably trainable with consistent effort. They learn well but may need more repetition than eager learners.
Be patient and consistent. Use high-value rewards and keep training sessions short but frequent. Consistency in commands and expectations is key.
Use the same commands and expectations every time. Consistency helps them understand what you want.
Keep sessions to 10-15 minutes to maintain focus and prevent frustration for both of you.
Use especially enticing treats for training to maintain motivation and attention.
Some commands may take longer to learn. Stay patient and celebrate small victories.
Feeding guidelines for Ragdoll
Large breeds need careful nutrition management, especially during growth. Controlled growth and joint support are key priorities.
Use foods specifically formulated for large breeds, especially during kittenhood for controlled growth.
Look for foods with glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health throughout life.
Rapid growth stresses developing joints. Large breed kittens should grow slowly and steadily.
Some large cats benefit from elevated food bowls for comfortable eating posture.
Common health conditions to watch for in Ragdoll
Understanding breed-specific health risks helps you provide better preventive care. Regular vet checkups and health screenings can catch many issues early.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian about your pet's specific health needs.
Estimated expenses for Ragdoll
Estimates based on 2024-2025 research, adjusted for Ragdoll's size. Actual costs vary by location and provider.
Local factors affecting pet ownership costs in United States
4 references for Ragdoll
Information sourced from breed registries, veterinary organizations, and peer-reviewed research