About Ragdoll Kittens

Ragdoll cats are a fairly new breed, developed in the 1960s by Ann Baker, a breeder in California who bred a Persian with a Birman. They are large, but noted for their docile, floppy behavior when picked up, hence the name "ragdoll."

  1. Types

    • Ragdolls have silky, semi-long haired, light-colored coats with darker "points," similar to Siamese cats. A mitted ragdoll has pointed legs, with short white mittens on its feet. A bicolor ragdoll has a dark face overlaid with a white, inverted V-shaped mask.

    Color

    • All ragdoll kittens are white at birth. Point colors begin to appear after a few days but may take 4 years to fully develop.

    Characteristics

    • Like most kittens, ragdoll kittens are inquisitive and like to play, but are more social than other cats. Ragdoll youngsters may behave more like puppies than kittens.

    Training

    • Ragdoll kittens may be trained to use a scratching post or to walk quietly on a leash. Some kittens will play fetch like a dog. They are easily trained to use a litter box.

    Special Considerations

    • Ragdolls must be kept as indoor cats only. It is said that a ragdoll does not have a self-preservation instinct and will not defend itself when threatened.