Ragdolls have quickly claimed a name for themselves amongst many homes looking for the perfect feline companion, they have a reputation for their sociable nature and undeniable beauty, but are they as affectionate and cuddly as they look?
Ragdolls are incredibly loving and affectionate cats, they will follow their beloved owners around the house and love to be doted upon; they have even claimed the nickname “Puppycat’s” for their loyal, puppy-like behavior.
They have become a favorite household companion because of many other factors:
- Their gentleness, sweet nature, and love of humans.
- Their sociable temperament and compatibility with children and other pets.
- They are usually calm, gentle and non-aggressive making their temperament just as irresistible as those dazzling blue eyes.
Let´s have a closer look at a Ragdoll´s personality!
Living up to their name
Ragdolls have attained their name quite fittingly through their reputation of flopping in your arms as they are held, just like a rag doll!
They are thought of as one of the most sociable and friendly cat breeds, with a natural desire for company and attention.
Ragdolls just love to be right by your side, they will often meow and follow you constantly for those oh-so-precious belly rubs.
They also make ideal lap-cats and will sit happily with you as you binge your favorite TV show ( they make an excellent hot water bottle replacement).
Even what’s better, these cats have so much more to offer than cuteness and affection…
They make a perfect family pet or, “Puppy Cat”
Ragdolls make for perfect family pets, as their docile nature makes them child-friendly and tolerant of (cat-friendly) dogs.
They can be a lovable, mischievous and smile-spreading addition to a home where love and attention are abundant.
Ragdoll´s can be very happy as indoor cats permitting that they have plenty to do, play with and investigate.
Ragdolls do not seem to be very “street-wise” by nature, their slower than average reactions mean they can be somewhat naïve to traffic and danger, and can often remain un-aggressive in response to an attack.
Many consider them to be safer as indoor cats, or with a well-secured enclosure.
They will thrive in homes where someone is usually present, as they are not naturally happy to be alone, and are sure to follow you around to immerse their curious noses in whatever you’re up to, hence their adorable nickname; “Puppy Cat”.
Their reputation for being the cat who thinks it’s a dog pays dividends to its curious and companionship loving temperament, they have even been known to roll over for tummy rubs, learn tricks and even learn to walk with a leash!
Ragdolls are gentle giants
Their massive size makes them the ultimate cuddle partners and endearingly gentle giants.
Male Ragdolls can weigh up to 20 pounds, with females slightly lighter averaging at around 14 pounds, so you’ll be sure to enjoy plenty of giant teddy cuddles.
Their favorability towards being handled and carried is what draws a lot of people to this friendly breed, and this means you’ll develop some real upper body strength; after all, who needs the gym when you have a much cuter trainer at home?
Don’t let their large size fool you, for these beasts are the gentlest and most calm creatures.
Ragdolls are not destructive by nature and will usually, when happy, be a very low maintenance, well-behaved pet.
There is nothing more comforting than a huge huggable, well-behaved bear in your living room.
Ragdolls are beautiful as well as affectionate.
Ragdolls may, at first glance, appear to be proud and almost royal, with their kingly thick coats, regal snouts, and sapphire peepers, but this illusion is soon shattered as they strut over to you, begging for some strokes.
They make for gorgeously soothing little buddies, you can sit for hours stroking their long, velvety fur.
Adorned with color-point markings much like Siamese breeds, they are beautifully detailed, with their colors deepening over the nose, cheeks, and ears.
These cats are blessed with a thick ruff of fur around their necks, much like a mane, and the famous frilly ‘knickerbockers’ on the back of their legs (Yes, it’s adorable).
You can fawn over their varying lilac, chocolate, and creamy hues as they remain loyally by your side.
Of course, their aesthetic beauty pales in comparison to their animated, affectionate and warm companionship (although their famously soft fur is a huge incentive for comforting cuddles).
Ragdolls make a great play-time partner
Ragdolls are known to be lazy cats that would much rather enjoy a cuddle than a frenzied playing session.
However, this doesn’t mean all Ragdolls will be melted onto your sofa all day.
Ragdolls love to play when the mood is right, particularly with feathered toys and balls, and especially when they are naughty kittens.
Being known for a seeming sense of humor and mischief makes them brilliant and entertaining play companions, and their non-aggressive nature means that children are perfectly safe to enjoy hours of frivolity with your bushy ball of joy.
Although Ragdolls are not affiliated with speed or quick reactions, they are highly intelligent and responsive to their owners, using mostly non-vocal body language to communicate (although some have been known to chatter and yowl).
Ragdolls mature fully by the age of 5, which gives them reasonably long adolescence and period of more energized, playful days.
Playing together can further bond you with your ragdoll, just don’t be offended when the cat quickly loses interest and saunters away to rest.
Ragdolls are just wonderful!
Ragdolls present all the best things about owning a cat, they’re affectionate, docile and intelligent with great compatibility for families with non-aggressive behavior towards other pets and children.
Ragdolls are the perfect home-companion for those who want a real character from a pet, with the loving personality of a puppy without all of the walks (unless you want to, as they may happily take to a lead).
They are well behaved and not prone to acting out with destructive behavior, and on the whole, are extremely low maintenance cats. All they ask for is a great deal of love, interaction and affection to remain their beautiful, happy selves.
Related questions
Why might a Ragdoll not be affectionate?
Usually, Ragdoll’s are docile, loving and crazy for attention, however, if you notice your Ragdoll is subdued or acting viciously, there may be something wrong.
- Your Ragdoll could be under stimulated; ensure they have access to plenty of toys and a scratching post.
- They may be injured or unwell; if you notice a significant change in behavior, it might be time to take your cuddly friend for a check-up with your vet, to make sure they’re not in pain.
- Make sure they know you’re the ‘boss’, use non-physical demonstrations of authority, such as stamping your foot when they are being destructive or misbehaving.
- Some cats are simply lone wolves, even a Ragdoll can be the exception to their breed, some cats enjoy a more solitary life and will come to you on their own terms; they still have a lot of cuteness to offer!
Do Ragdolls get lonely?
If left alone for a long time Ragdoll’s will most likely feel lonely, they are very friendly animals that love being doted upon so you should ensure there is someone around the house most of the time, or at perhaps another pet to keep them company.
Are Ragdolls prone to health issues?
Ragdolls are usually very healthy cats, the two most common issues in the pedigree breed being; hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a type of heart disease that is hereditary in Ragdolls, and a tendency towards kidney problems or failure. With regular veterinarian visits and a healthy diet, Ragdolls should live long and happy lives, and with proper attention, grooming and play, Ragdoll’s can make the most affectionate (not to mention fluffy) companion one can ask for.
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