The name Ragdoll is derived from the tendency of individuals from the original breeding stock to go limp and relaxed when picked up.

[5] Josephine later produced kittens with a docile, placid temperament, affectionate nature, and a tendency to go limp and relaxed when picked up.

[6] Out of those early litters came Blackie, an all-black male, and Daddy Warbucks, a seal point with white feet.

In 1975, a group led by a husband-and-wife team, Denny and Laura Dayton, broke ranks with the IRCA to gain mainstream recognition for the Ragdoll.

[12] The Ragdoll has been known to have a very floppy and calm nature, with claims that these characteristics have been passed down from the Persian and Birman breeds.

Opinions vary as to whether this trait might be the result of genetic mutation or merely an instinctive reaction from being picked up as kittens by their mother.

Some breeders in Britain have tried to breed away from the limpness owing to concerns that extreme docility "might not be in the best interests of the cat".

[13][16] Breed standard marketing and publicity material describe the Ragdoll as affectionate, intelligent, relaxed in temperament, gentle, and an easy-to-handle lap cat.

[19] Unlike many other breeds, Ragdolls prefer staying low to the ground rather than the highest point in the household.

Although the breed has a plush coat, it consists mainly of long guard hairs, while the lack of a dense undercoat results, according to the Cat Fanciers' Association, in "reduced shedding and matting".

[26] Ragdolls come in six distinct colors: seal, chocolate, red, and the corresponding dilutes: blue, lilac, and cream.

A UK study utilizing veterinary records found a life expectancy of 10.31 years compared to 11.74 overall.

[35] An English study reviewing over 190,000 patient records found the Ragdoll to be less likely to acquire diabetes mellitus than mixed breed cats.