Ragdoll
Ragdolls are a popular breed of cat. The breed originated in California around the 1960s. Ragdoll cats are different from most cats because of their exceptionally gentle, calm, laid-back and sociable personality.
They seem to lack the aggression that we normally associate with the cat as a hunter. Ragdolls like to be with people and are known for their friendly disposition. They are relaxed cats, and, while they can be playful, are not as energetic as most cats. They readily adapt to living in small spaces such as an apartment. These characteristics, of course, have endeared the breed to those seeking a pet that will live mostly indoors.
This lack of aggression does mean that ragdoll cats are, by their nature, not well equipped to fend for themselves in the wild if abandoned. Nor is it wise to expose them to the risk of territory fights with other cats in your neighborhood. They are relatively dependent animals compared to most cats.
The ragdoll breed takes its name from the way the cat seems to be completely relaxed when being handled or petted, almost as if it was a limp and inanimate doll. It doesn’t seem to mind being held and cuddled in different positions, and being moved around at the whim of the owner. This docile behavior reflects the calm and trusting nature of the breed.
Ragdoll cats are less inclined to climb then most cats, which is great if you plan to keep your pet indoors and have concerns about the safety of your ornaments and photo frames displayed on shelves and furniture. A ragdoll typically moves around your house in a gentle and sedate way without the energetic running and jumping you might expect from an average cat. They will often follow their owners about the house, more as you would expect of a puppy than a cat.
As a companion, a ragdoll cat is exceptionally intelligent and willing to please. Owners who take the time to train them have found that they can readily learn to do things like shake hands and fetch toys - tricks that are often difficult to teach to ordinary cats. They are also easier to train to accept a leash and be taken for short walks than most independent-minded cats.
While they are playful and enjoy having fun with their owners, they are not boisterous. There is a gentleness about their playfulness, reflecting their placid nature.
The coat of ragdoll cats resembles rabbit fur, being thick and appealingly soft to touch. They do not shed a lot of fur, and do not need a lot of grooming. Their coat does benefit from occasional attention, especially the longer fur around the neck and hindquarters - and they do seem to enjoy being groomed.
Ragdolls are not vocal cats, although at mealtimes they are, like most cats, inclined to remind their owners that they are hungry.
The placid ragdoll cat breed makes a loving and charming companion particularly suited to a smaller home and owners with a matching gentle and quiet disposition.
