🐱 Cat breed

Ragdoll: breed facts, care and health

A large, blue-eyed and extremely docile cat known for going limp like a rag doll when picked up.

✍️ CanlıDostum Editorial Team📅 October 22, 2026⏱️ 3 min read

⚡ At a glance

  • Adult weight: Male 6–9 kg (13–20 lb) · Female 4.5–6.5 kg (10–14 lb)
  • Life expectancy: 12–17 years
  • Activity: Low–moderate · 2 play sessions a day
  • Best suited to: Families, homes with children, calm households

Key facts

OriginUSA
HeightLarge, long-bodied
Adult weightMale 6–9 kg (13–20 lb) · Female 4.5–6.5 kg (10–14 lb)
Life expectancy12–17 years
Activity needsLow–moderate · 2 play sessions a day
CoatSemi-long, silky, little undercoat
Best suited toFamilies, homes with children, calm households

Approximate ranges based on breed standards; individuals vary.

Temperament

Ragdolls are calm, loving and people-oriented; they greet you at the door and follow you around. Not aggressive, so they cope poorly outdoors — keep them as indoor cats.

Daily exercise

Low energy, but two play sessions a day are important for weight control.

🏃Log play time with the activity tracker and see weekly totals.
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Feeding

Inactive nature makes weight gain likely; weigh food.

Example: a neutered adult Ragdoll at an ideal weight of 6 kg (13 lb) needs roughly 320 kcal a day (RER × 1.2). Work out your own pet's needs with the calorie calculator and check ideal weight with the ideal weight calculator.

Common health problems

  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): breed-specific genetic test
  • Obesity
  • Urinary problems and bladder stones
  • Gum disease
🚨Not every Ragdoll will have these problems; the list shows conditions seen more often in the breed. If you notice symptoms, or are getting a puppy or kitten, ask about the parents' health screening and plan regular check-ups with your vet.

Care tips

  • Brush twice a week
  • Wet food and a water fountain
  • Yearly heart check
  • Keep indoors, nets on windows
🪪Microchip your pet and keep your contact details up to date — in many countries it is required by law.

Frequently asked questions

Why do Ragdolls go limp when held?

Relaxing their muscles when picked up is the breed's signature trait.

Can Ragdolls go outside?

They are so docile they struggle to protect themselves; indoor life or a secure balcony is recommended.

Do Ragdolls shed?

Little undercoat means few mats; moderate shedding. Brushing twice a week is enough.

⚠️This page is for general information and is based on FCI and AKC breed standards and general veterinary sources such as WSAVA, the AVMA and the Merck Veterinary Manual. It does not replace an examination or advice from a veterinarian.

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