Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Background
The Ragdoll breed originated in the United States in the 1960s, thanks to breeder Ann Baker. The foundation cat was a white semi-longhaired female noted for her remarkably gentle temperament and tendency to go completely limp when picked up — a trait that inspired the breed’s name. Burmese and Persian cats were later introduced to strengthen the breed’s structure, coat quality, and signature colorpoint pattern. Ragdolls quickly gained popularity for their calm, affectionate nature and striking appearance. By the 1990s, they were recognized by major international feline organizations. Today, the Ragdoll is among the world’s most beloved companion cat breeds, admired for its devotion, grace, and serene temperament.
General Appearance
The Ragdoll is a large semi-longhaired cat with a harmonious build and soft, flowing lines. The body is long, strong, and rectangular, with a broad chest and solid bone structure. Legs are medium in length, sturdy, with large round paws. The head is broad and wedge-shaped with softly rounded contours and a straight nose of medium length. Eyes are large, oval, and always vivid blue, set wide apart. Ears are medium-sized, slightly forward-tilted with rounded tips. The coat is silky, semi-long, and dense, forming a ruff and breeches. The tail is long, plumed, and in proportion to the body. The overall impression combines strength, softness, and majestic elegance.
Important Proportions
Ragdolls are characterized by large size and balanced proportions. The body is longer than it is tall, maintaining a rectangular format. The head is proportionate to the body, with soft, rounded lines and a gentle profile. Eyes must always be vivid blue — large, luminous, and expressive. Legs are medium-length and well-boned; paws are round and substantial. The tail is long, fluffy, and complements the body. The neck is medium in length and strong, forming a smooth transition between head and torso. The weight is evenly distributed, lending stability and dignity.
Behavior and Temperament
Ragdolls are famous for their gentle, trusting nature. They are calm, balanced, and deeply affectionate. These cats form strong bonds with their families, adapt well to home life, and get along wonderfully with children and other pets. A distinctive feature is their complete relaxation when held — the “ragdoll” effect that gave the breed its name. They are intelligent, playful, and patient, rarely showing aggression. Their temperament combines curiosity and serenity, making them ideal companions for any household.
Head
The head is large, broad, and wedge-shaped, with softly rounded contours. The forehead is slightly curved, merging smoothly into a straight, medium-length nose. Cheeks are full and well-developed, accentuating the width of the muzzle. The chin is strong, broad, and aligned with the nose tip. The overall impression should be harmonious and noble, without sharp angles or heaviness.
Facial Features
The face is soft and balanced, with rounded lines and fullness in the cheeks. The nose is straight, of medium length, connecting gently with the forehead. Whiskers are long and dense, giving the face a kind, open expression. The chin is firm yet not coarse, adding to the breed’s gentle, friendly appearance.
Eyes
Eyes are large, oval, and widely spaced, slightly slanted for a soft expression. The only accepted color is blue — from pale to deep sapphire. The gaze should be serene, intelligent, and affectionate. Eyes of any color other than blue are disqualifying.
Ears
Ears are medium-sized, broad at the base, and slightly tilted forward with rounded tips. Set wide apart, they complement the wedge-shaped head. The inner ear is well-furnished, often with tufts at the tips. Oversized, undersized, or narrowly set ears are considered faults.
Neck
The neck is medium in length, strong and well-muscled, forming a smooth transition to the shoulders and chest. Males may have thicker necks; females, more refined. It should always convey balance and strength, without shortness or thinness.
Body
The body is large, long, and muscular, with a broad chest and solid bone structure. The back is level and strong, the abdomen slightly rounded but firm. Shoulders and hindquarters are powerful, giving the cat a sense of stability and presence. The silhouette should be imposing but not coarse.
Tail
The tail is long, plume-like, and fully covered in soft fur. It should taper gently and move fluidly, continuing the body’s line. Kinks, breaks, or short tails are faults. The tail adds balance and elegance to the breed’s appearance.
Forelegs
Forelegs are medium-length, straight, and sturdy, with substantial bone structure. Paws are large, round, and tufted. Legs must appear strong and proportional to the heavy frame. Weak or overly slender legs are faults.
Hind Legs
Hind legs are slightly longer than the forelegs, creating a gentle rise from shoulders to haunches. Thighs are muscular and powerful, hocks low and straight. Paws are large, round, and tufted. Incorrect angulation or poor muscle tone are considered faults.
Gait and Movement
The Ragdoll’s movement is fluid, soft, and confident. Steps are measured and graceful, reflecting its calm disposition. The tail aids balance, moving naturally with each step. The gait should be smooth and dignified — never clumsy, stiff, or hurried.
Coat
The coat is semi-long, silky, and dense, with a soft, flowing texture. The undercoat is light, giving the coat fullness without heaviness. A ruff frames the neck; breeches form on the hind legs. Fur is shorter on the shoulders and longer on the flanks and tail. The texture must remain smooth and rabbit-like.
Accepted Colors
Ragdolls are recognized exclusively in colorpoint patterns: seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, and their variants. Bicolor and mitted patterns are also accepted, combining white with the point colors. The body color is lighter than the points on the face, ears, legs, and tail. Blue eyes are mandatory regardless of pattern. Solid or non-contrasted coats are disqualifying.
Size
Ragdolls are a large breed. Females typically weigh 4.5–6.5 kg, maintaining elegance and proportion; males 6.5–9 kg, with stronger bone and muscle. The tail must always be in balance with body length. Oversized or undersized cats that lose harmony of movement are undesirable.
Faults
Faults include weak bone structure, narrow chest, short or overly long body, dull eye color, incorrect ear placement, thin or short tail, coarse or sparse coat, uneven markings, or improper color distribution. Behavioral issues such as timidity or aggression are also faults.
Disqualifications
Disqualifying features include any eye color other than blue, lack of point contrast, solid coloration, white markings outside accepted patterns, jaw deformities, tail kinks, or incorrect coat texture. Cats with severe skeletal defects or aggressive behavior, as well as those without official ICCF registration papers, are not eligible for shows or breeding.
Important Notes
The Ragdoll is renowned for its gentle, trusting disposition and striking blue eyes. Breeding must follow ICCF standards strictly, allowing only registered cats to preserve purity. Crossbreeding is prohibited. Regular grooming is required to maintain the silky coat. Proper nutrition supports the breed’s large frame and glossy appearance.
Conclusion
The Ragdoll is a majestic, affectionate breed that combines size, elegance, and serenity. Its calm demeanor and devotion make it an ideal family companion. ICCF regulations admit only officially registered cats for exhibitions and breeding, ensuring the preservation of this breed’s exceptional qualities — its blue eyes, silky coat, balanced build, and gentle nature.
