This article looks at why Ragdolls make ideal pets for humans of all ages. And reveals the health conditions owners or prospective owners should look out for.

• Average weight = 4.5 - 9kg (males larger)

• Life Expectancy = 12 - 17 years

• Coat type = Semi-long

• Grooming requirements = Weekly minimum

• Colour = Colour points: Body lighter than face, ears, legs and tail

• Personality = Gentle, affectionate, easy going

7 reasons why Ragdolls make good pets

Cats vary in temperament just the same way humans do. But a recent study identified 5 ‘Key Personality Traits’ in cats:

• Neuroticism: Insecurity, anxiety, fear of people, suspicion, shyness.

• Extraversion: Energetic, watchful, curious, inquisitive, creative, smart.

• Dominance: Bullying; dominance and aggression toward other cats.

• Impulsive: Unpredictability and recklessness.

• Agreeable: Affection, friendliness to people, gentleness.

Ragdolls have a gentle, affectionate personality

What more could you ask for in a family pet than:

• Just the right amount of inquisitiveness and playfulness to make them great fun to be around

• Being among the most affectionate and friendly breeds you can find

Ragdolls aren’t going to be as standoffish as other breeds. They’re easy to bond with and predisposed to be affectionate and loving towards their humans.

Ragdolls love human company

Sometimes Ragdolls are described as ‘puppy-like’ in their behaviour. And while most cats would feel insulted by such a comparison to a ‘lesser’ species, Ragdolls seem to be the exception:

• Following their human around the house

• Cuddling up next to them at any opportunity

• Coming to greet humans when they get home

• Playing fetch or hide and seek

So if you’re looking for a devoted and playful companion. And one who’ll offer you constant, unconditional affection, a Ragdoll may be just the right cat for you. Especially where an actual puppy is out of the question!

Ragdolls go limp when they’re picked up

Ragdolls are unique in the way they go limp when picked up. Just like a rag doll toy. No surprise, that’s how they got their name. Ann Barker was the cat enthusiast who developed the Ragdoll breed. She selected this trait in the cats she bred (and some stunning good looks – more of that later). Having this trait arguably makes Ragdolls an ideal family pet cat.

• Going limp when picked up – however inexpertly

• Accepting being carried around the house like a rag doll toy by their small humans

• Being genuinely unconcerned by this treatment

• Going limp may be retained kitten behaviour or a reflex to prevent injury, or both

Ragdolls aren’t impulsive or unpredictable

Ragdolls tend not to have the traits of fear or impulsivity that can make most cats unpredictable companions at times. This results in Ragdolls:

• Being unlikely to lash out suddenly.

• Accepting new housemates (4-legged or 2) more readily.

• Being generally even-tempered and calm.

Ragdolls are large cats

This can be a big plus in a busy household or family environment. Benefits include

• Being easier to pick up and cuddle.

• Having less chance of being stepped on or trapped in a door.

• Being more visible if they’re up to mischief – especially the kind likely to harm them, like eating houseplants.

Ragdolls live happily as indoor cats

Many cats still have a strong prey drive or want outside to explore their territory. But since many of us live in flats or by busy roads, this isn’t always an option. Ragdoll cats are best suited to living indoors, which means:

• Having less chance of getting lost.

• Avoiding fights and bite injuries from other cats, dogs or foxes: painful, unpleasant and often expensive to treat.

• Avoiding road accidents, falls or getting locked in sheds.

• Not encountering common outdoor poisons: garden plants, antifreeze, rodenticides

• Being less likely to pick up tapeworms, fleas, lungworms or ticks. But it’s not impossible – preventives are still essential.

Ragdolls are beautiful!

OK, looks aren’t everything. But when combined with sweet, affectionate personalities, it’s the icing on the cake.

• Distinctive and gorgeous bright blue eyes

• A luxurious soft and silky semi-long to long coat

• Attractive contrasting colour points

• Low to medium grooming requirements

• Low shedding

Despite their lovely long coats, Ragdolls don’t shed much hair. This is because they don’t have the dense undercoat that other breeds have. The undercoat is responsible for most shedding. So there’s not even a price to pay in every-day grooming and vacuuming for those iconic good looks!

7 common health conditions of Ragdolls >7 common health conditions of Ragdolls [Common health problems