The Pet Atlas

Breed Cats Longhair

Ragdoll

Large longhair with a silky coat and substantial frame

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
Low
Vocality
Low
Health sensitivity
Medium
Grooming
Medium
Shedding
Medium
Temperature sensitivity
Medium

Context & compatibility

Size
Large
Lifespan
12–18 years
Coat type
Single
Coat length
Long

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Want a large longhair with a silky coat look that's often less "woolly" than dense double coats

Not ideal

  • Want a longhair where high drive / high motion is the defining trait

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Often steady and people-oriented, with a relaxed pace in many lines.

Handling & social style

Many are handling-tolerant, but it’s not guaranteed—best fit is homes that use gentle invitation and calm, repeatable routines.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

A calm, people-attached breed—coat care is manageable with consistency, and they do best with predictable daily rhythms.

Environment & space

Indoor homes work well with soft landing spots, a few perches, and a low-stress routine.

Daily routine

Brush several times weekly (more during sheds) and keep modest daily play for muscle tone and balance.

Health sensitivities

Many lines emphasize heart screening (including HCM); look for documented testing and family history.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

United States

Background

Established in the modern cat fancy as a large longhair with a substantial frame and a flowing, silky coat look. The breed’s “signature” is the combination of size, soft coat presentation, and a consistently recognizable colorpoint-style aesthetic in many lines.