The Ragdoll Cat Standard: A Guide to the Ideal Ragdoll

The Ragdoll cat is one of the most sought-after purebred cats, known for its stunning blue eyes, silky coat, and affectionate temperament. But what defines the perfect Ragdoll according to breed standards?

Both The International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) have established the official Ragdoll breed standard, outlining the ideal body structure, coat, eye color, and personality traits.

If you're interested in showing a Ragdoll cat or simply want to understand what makes a true Ragdoll, this guide will walk you through the official breed standard and what to look for in a purebred Ragdoll.

1. Ragdoll Cat Body Structure & Size

Ragdolls are large, muscular, and well-balanced cats, with a soft, floppy nature that gives them their name. Their bodies should be strong but graceful, with a broad chest and solid bone structure.

Key Features:

• Size: Large breed, with males typically weighing 15-20 lbs and females 10-15 lbs

• Body Type: Long and rectangular, with a broad chest and sturdy legs

• Bone Structure: Medium to heavy boning, contributing to their strong yet elegant build

• Tail: Long and bushy, in proportion to the body, with a full plume

• Neck: Short to medium in length, strong, and well-muscled

Ragdolls are slow-maturing cats, often taking 3-4 years to reach their full size and coat development.

2. Ragdoll Head Shape & Facial Features

The Ragdoll’s face should have a gentle, sweet expression that reflects their affectionate nature.

Key Features:

• Head Shape: Broad, modified wedge with softly rounded contours

• Muzzle: Well-developed with a gently rounded chin

• Ears: Medium-sized, slightly tilted forward, rounded at the tips, with light feathering

• Nose: Medium length with a slight dip but no distinct break

Some cats may resemble Ragdolls but have a more extreme wedge-shaped face (like a Siamese) or a flat face (like a Persian). A true Ragdoll has a balanced, moderate wedge-shaped head.

3. Eye Shape & Color

One of the most defining features of a Ragdoll cat is its stunning blue eyes.

Key Features:

• Eye Shape: Large, oval, and slightly slanted

• Eye Color: Always blue (the deeper the blue, the better)

In the traditional Ragdoll breed standard, blue eyes are required. However, some Cherubim Ragdolls (such as Minks and Sepias) may have aqua, green, or gold eyes.

4. Coat Type & Colors

Ragdolls have a silky, semi-long coat that requires minimal grooming compared to other long-haired breeds. They are born white and develop their color over time, with full coloration appearing by age two.

Key Features:

• Coat Type: Soft, semi-long fur with minimal undercoat, reducing matting

• Texture: Plush and silky rather than woolly

• Color Development: Kittens are born white, and colors darken as they mature

Recognized Ragdoll Colors:

• Seal, Blue, Chocolate, Lilac, Red (Flame), Cream, Cinnamon, and Fawn

Recognized Ragdoll Coat Patterns:

• Colorpoint: Darker points on the ears, face, paws, and tail with no white markings

• Mitted: Similar to colorpoint but with white mittens on the paws and a white belly stripe

• Bicolor: A symmetrical white “V” on the face, white legs, and a mostly white belly

• Lynx: A tabby-like striping overlay on any standard pattern

• Tortie: A mix of red/cream with another standard color, creating a marbled effect

• Torbie: A blend of tortie and lynx patterns, resulting in a striped and marbled combination

Starting in May 2025, Cherubim Ragdolls, including Blue-Eyed Whites and additional color variations, will be eligible for TICA registration and can be shown in TICA competitions.

5. Personality & Temperament

The Ragdoll breed is known for its docile, affectionate, and people-oriented nature. They thrive in homes where they can receive love and attention.

Key Personality Traits:

• Affectionate and loyal, often following their owners around

• Calm and laid-back, rarely aggressive or territorial

• Great with families, children, and other pets

• Social but not overly demanding, enjoying interaction but also relaxing independently

• Known for their “floppy” nature, often going limp when picked up

These qualities make Ragdolls one of the best indoor companion cats, perfect for those seeking an affectionate, relaxed pet.

6. Ragdoll Movement & Gait

A show-quality Ragdoll should move with grace and fluidity, reflecting its muscular yet elegant build.

Key Features:

• Stride: Smooth, balanced, and flowing

• Posture: Confident but relaxed, maintaining their signature floppy demeanor when handled

• Overall Presence: Should appear regal yet gentle, with a soft expression

7. Disqualifications & Breed Faults

Not every Ragdoll meets the breed standard perfectly, and some traits are considered faults or disqualifications in show competitions.

Disqualifications in Show Cats:

• Lack of blue eyes in traditional Ragdolls

• Short or cobby body structure instead of a long, rectangular frame

• Extreme facial features that resemble other breeds

• Incorrect coat texture (too woolly or Persian-like)

While these factors affect a Ragdoll’s eligibility for shows, they do not make the cat any less of a wonderful pet.

Final Thoughts: Understanding the Ragdoll Breed Standard

The ideal Ragdoll cat is a combination of physical beauty and a loving personality. Whether you're considering a show-quality Ragdoll or simply looking for a pet, understanding the breed standard helps ensure you’re adopting an authentic Ragdoll that meets expectations.

If you're interested in bringing home a well-bred, affectionate, and healthy Ragdoll kitten, always choose a TICA or CFA-registered breeder who prioritizes temperament, health testing, and proper breed standards.

Thinking about adopting a Ragdoll kitten?

As a Ragdoll breeder in NJ, it is very important for me to match you with the best Ragdoll cat! Contact us today to adopt your new Ragdoll kitten.