The Ragdoll is known for its great temperament and docile nature. They generally are both playful and quiet, spending much of their time in the company of their owners. Their relaxed nature makes them wonderful additions to the family, even if there are other pets or children around.

This gentle giant has a long, silky coat that is easier to manage and less likely to mat than other long-haired cats. Depending on the color point, their body color ranges from white to a soft beige and, along with their pattern, darkens with maturity.

They come in four traditional colors:

• seal (rich brown)
• blue (soft grayish)
• chocolate (coffee-cream)
• lilac (muted shade of pinkish gray)

Flame (red), cream, and tortie (multi-colored) are more recent additions.

The recognized patterns which Ragdolls sport are:

• Bicolor
• Mitted
• Solid point

Variations on these patterns have recently been obtained through the tabby striping of the lynx point. All Ragdolls, regardless of color or pattern, must have large oval blue eyes.

They average in size from 12 to 18 pounds for males and 10 to 15 pounds for females, making them one of the larger breeds around. Their large frame should have a long appearance, being neither short nor cobby. Ragdolls are muscular, firm cats with no excessive fat, except on the lower stomach.