Origination...
   There are several myths surrounding the Ragdoll breed.  But, it's generally accepted that a woman from California named Ann Baker, in the early 1960s, created the Ragdoll by breeding a white female Persian to a male Birman.  She then introduced a female Burmese into the breeding program and this combination resulted in the Ragdoll breed.

Temperament...  
   Ragdolls are sometimes referred to as the "Gentle Giants" of the cat world.  They are very laid-back, docile, and non-aggressive cats.  Ragdolls tend to relax and go limp when held.  They have a non-fighting instinct meaning if they're attacked, they don't defend themselves the way most other cats would.  For this reason, they should be kept strictly indoors.  They love to be around people and have been described as acting similar to a puppy.  They may greet guests, follow their owners around, and some can even be taught to fetch!  Ragdolls are slow-maturing and may not reach full maturity until about three or four years of age.

Physical Characteristics...
   Ragdolls are the largest fully domestic breed of cat (Guinness Book of World Records). They are large, heavy cats with broad chests and large hindquarters. Females are smaller than males, weighing about 10-15 pounds on average.  Males weigh an average of 12-20 pounds as adults, although some may grow to be larger.  Full weight and size is not expected for at least four years. 
   Ragdolls have large, oval, blue eyes and sweet expressions.  Their large, rounded ears are set with a slight forward tilt.  They have a curved profile with the look of a "ski slope" as it merges to the top of the head.   
   Ragdolls have soft medium-long coats and bushy tails that feel like rabbit fur and do not tend to mat, although occasional grooming may be required.  In general, Ragdolls have longer fur around the neck and on the back of the hindquarters.

Colors & Patterns...
   If you'd like to learn more about the colors and patterns of Ragdolls, you can visit: RFW.
   Also, Ragdoll International has photos of the various colors and patterns, to visit: Ragdoll International.     

Should you get a Ragdoll?  
   Ragdoll cats can be excellent pets, especially if you want a loving, friendly companion that will be affectionate to everyone in your home, including visitors.  They are large cats and require little grooming, shed very little, and can be trained quiet easily.  They also adapt very well to small apartment life.  On the other hand, if you need to leave your cat alone for long periods of time, a Ragdoll may not be the right breed for you.  They like attention but aren't as vocal as other breeds.  Ragdolls are a strictly indoor cat and should not go outside at all.  All in all, Ragdolls are very dependent cats that need a good deal of love and attention.