Do Ragdoll Cats Really Go Limp? | 7 Lesser-Known Facts About Ragdoll Cats!

I have been sharing so much about Siamese cats lately, I was feeling I need to bring some variety into the mix. And I feel there is no better feline to discuss than ragdoll cats.

One reason is that they are incredibly cute and attract the affection of many cat enthusiasts. More importantly, being a relatively new breed, there is so much that remains to be explored about them.

Let me start with one of the most frequently asked questions.

Do ragdoll cats really ragdoll?

Unfortunately, not all ragdoll cats will go limp or flop when you pick them up. Regardless, ragdoll cats are among the most affectionate, laid-back, and beautiful cats you can own. While this addresses the basic question of whether ragdoll cats really ragdoll, it merely scratches the surface.

Although I have touched upon ragdoll cats here in Kitty County, I feel I haven’t discussed them as thoroughly as I ought to. Let me change that today.

Ragdoll Cats History

To truly understand ragdoll cats, it’s essential to know their origins. Are ragdoll cats a natural breed or are they genetically modified?

As noted, ragdolls are a relatively new breed. The origins of the first ragdoll kittens can be traced back to California in 1960, when they were developed by Ann Baker. The mother of these ragdoll kittens was a Persian/Angora type domestic white long-haired cat named Josephine, whom Ann found roaming her neighborhood.

Josephine had litters with several Birman or Burmese type cats, some of which exhibited Siamese point coloration. Among these litters, Josephine produced an unusually docile set of kittens that were affectionate and prone to surrendering when picked up. This trait is likely the inspiration behind the name ragdoll cats.

Some argued that this tendency resulted from an incident involving Josephine; however, it was later concluded that genetic transfer from injuries would be impossible.

Ragdoll Cats Personality

This is how ragdolls found their way into the world. Most people understand ragdolls to be collaborative companions. They are among the friendliest, most affectionate, and reasonably playful cat breeds. But what else should one know about their personality traits?

If you are considering adopting a ragdoll kitten or cat, the next sections will be crucial.

Ragdoll cats are known for their docility and submissive nature, typically attributed to two factors:

• The majority of the reasoning supports genetics, indicating that their calm demeanor is passed down from Persian and Birman genes.
• Many attribute their docile behavior as an instinctive reaction from being handled by their mothers during kittenhood.

Regardless of the reason, one thing remains clear: their affectionate nature and compatibility with pets, children, and people make them a highly desired breed.

Physically, ragdolls have a round and stocky build, but their proportions are balanced with no extreme features, which is likely why people enjoy picking them up. Whether or not your ragdoll will go limp is subjective; however, they rarely resist being held.

Ragdoll cats thrive on interaction with their humans. Anyone who has had the pleasure of owning one will attest to their excellence as companion cats. They greet you, follow you, snuggle up to you, and enjoy sleeping on your lap.

Additionally, their gentle nature carries over to playtime, as you will rarely find them playing with their claws extended. This makes them a favorite choice for families.

Importantly, ragdoll cats are not jumpers; they don’t require a complex ecosystem, unlike breeds like Siamese cats. Those seeking a ragdoll solely for the purpose of witnessing “ragdolling” may find themselves disappointed.

This charming characteristic can be delightful; however, it’s essential to understand that NOT all ragdolls exhibit this behavior when picked up. Personal experience with ragdolls has shown varying degrees of this trait. One ragdoll I encountered perfectly exemplified the breed: she went limp the moment she was lifted, calm and wholly relaxed. Conversely, I’ve also met a ragdoll who preferred a brief cuddle before seeking solitude.

This point is critical: the tendency to “go flop” should not be your sole motivation for getting a ragdoll cat. They are beautiful companions with numerous appealing qualities, as I’ve already detailed in this section.

Each cat possesses unique traits, and ragdolls are no exception. They are highly affectionate, breathtakingly beautiful, and typically blend well into family environments.

So, consider adopting a ragdoll cat for the warmth of their nature, not just for their propensity to go limp. But if you place significant importance on this trait, it’s best to visit the litter in person and engage with the kittens to see who resonates with you.

It’s worth noting that kittens generally go limp when they feel safe and relaxed. Being new to their environment, they may initially be a bit resistant.

Ragdoll Cat Facts

The best reason to get a ragdoll cat is due to the intrinsic beauty of their personalities. Most of their traits have already been discussed, so let me share some lesser-known facts about ragdoll cats. These additional facts may encourage you to adopt them beyond their tendency to be calm and relaxed.

• You can teach them tricks. Ragdolls are highly intelligent and have a calm demeanor. They often enjoy human companionship, making them comparable to dogs. With positive reinforcement, you can train them to fetch, roll over, or even play dead. However, they are not as vocal as Siamese cats.
• Ragdolls have a delightful voice. Even though they are generally quiet, they know how to communicate their needs, and their voices are often regarded as sweet and pleasant.
• Ann Baker established a new Cat Association exclusively for ragdolls. After successful breeding, she created her own registry, the International Ragdoll Cat Association, in 1971, setting strict standards for breeding and selling ragdoll cats.
• Ragdoll cats are one of the largest domesticated cat breeds. Their stocky muscular build and fluffy coat allow them to reach around 20 pounds, often giving them the appearance of small dogs.
• All purebred ragdoll cats have blue eyes. According to the International Cat Association, being classified as a purebred ragdoll necessitates having blue eyes.
• Ragdoll kittens are born pure white. It requires two to three weeks for their color patterns to develop, and breeders can often predict these colors based on the parents.
• Ragdolls are ideal lap cats. If you desire a cat that loves to cuddle and engage deeply with you, a ragdoll is likely an excellent match due to their affectionate disposition.

Conclusion

I hope this article has provided comprehensive insights into ragdoll cats and their personalities. While addressing the core question of whether ragdoll cats truly ragdoll, I aimed to illuminate various aspects of their character.

Ragdoll cats are some of the sweetest felines you can have the pleasure of owning. Yes, they often go limp when picked up, but this behavior isn’t guaranteed across all individuals.

If you’re considering welcoming a ragdoll cat into your home, be motivated by their calm, loving nature and their ability to bond with not just other pets, but also family members and children. They are the perfect companions that thrive in your presence, often engaging in cuddles and warmth.

FAQs

Do all ragdoll cats go limp when picked up?

No, not all ragdoll cats exhibit this behavior. While many do, individual personalities may vary.

What is the average weight of a ragdoll cat?

Ragdoll cats can weigh up to 20 pounds, making them one of the largest domesticated cat breeds.

Are ragdoll cats good with children?

Yes! Ragdoll cats are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them great companions for children.

Do ragdoll cats require a lot of grooming?

Ragdolls have medium to long fur, requiring regular grooming to prevent matting and to keep their coat healthy.

How long do ragdoll cats typically live?

On average, ragdoll cats live between 12 to 15 years, although some can live longer with proper care.