Clearing Up Ragdoll Myths
There are many misconceptions when it comes to the Ragdoll cat. The Ragdoll is incredibly popular and adored world-wide, so naturally there are going to be some inconsistencies surrounding this breed. As a Ragdoll breeder at Pastel Ragdolls and an animal lover, I am here to debunk some of the most common myths surrounding the Ragdoll. In this article, I have exposed the real truth behind 25 Ragdoll misconceptions and have offered some honest and candid insights into this incredible breed.
1. Ragdolls ARE the world’s most popular cat breed.
The Ragdoll has continuously been rated the world’s #1 cat breed for many years by the Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA). This breed continues to captivate hearts with its stunning appearance and affectionate temperament. Ragdolls are truly the best of both worlds, being both cat-like and dog-like.
2. Ragdolls are NOT hypoallergenic.
Despite what some individuals may claim, Ragdoll cats can cause allergies. However, many Ragdolls possess lower allergen levels than other cat breeds. If you are considering a Ragdoll cat, it is best to meet one in person before you make the commitment so you can determine your own immune response and whether or not you might be allergic.
3. Ragdolls DO shed.
Ragdoll cats have beautiful, ultra-soft bunny coats that shed minimally. The majority of long-haired cat breeds have an undercoat, which causes frequent and excessive shedding. Since Ragdoll cats lack this undercoat, they do tend to shed much less than other breeds – a definite plus!
4. Ragdolls ARE expensive.
A well-bred Ragdoll from an ethical breeder is going to be an investment. It is very expensive to breed and raise these beautiful felines. Ragdoll Kitten Pricing in 2024-2025 starts at around $3,000-$3,500 for a pet quality Ragdoll kitten. If you choose to adopt a show quality kitten instead, it will likely be more expensive.
5. Not ALL Ragdolls are floppy or cuddly.
The notorious “Floppy” Ragdoll Personality you read about is genetic more than anything else. Not all Ragdoll breeders focus on or produce Ragdoll kittens with the true, sweet Ragdoll temperament, especially if it is not bred into the lines they work with. Be sure to check with your breeder and ask about the temperaments of the cats in their breeding program, which will be passed to their offspring.
6. Ragdolls SHOULD have blue eyes.
You may see “Ragdolls” being advertised with eyes other than blue, such as green, brown or golden. Unfortunately, these are not true Ragdoll cats, and they cannot be shown under the official Ragdoll name. The Ragdoll is a pointed breed, and all genuine Ragdolls have blue eyes, no exceptions.
7. Ragdolls are NOT deaf.
This myth is due to the association between deafness and blue eyes in cats. However, this deafness normally only occurs in cats that are all white. While Ragdoll cats do possess striking blue eyes, they are a pointed breed (not white) and they do not carry the mutation that causes deafness.
8. Ragdolls DO feel pain.
The misconception that Ragdolls don’t feel pain likely originated from the breed founder, Ann Baker. She was amazed by the Ragdoll’s incredibly calm and docile nature, which often didn’t react to discomfort. While Ragdolls may hide their pain better than other cat breeds simply due to their submissive behavior, they still experience pain just like any other feline.
9. Not ALL Ragdolls are quiet cats.
Some individuals assume that all Ragdolls are quiet, due to their peaceful nature. Conversely, vocalness varies between individual Ragdoll. Some Ragdolls enjoy “chatting” and will even meow back when their owner speaks to them.
10. Ragdolls are NOT always clingy.
Another myth is that Ragdolls are always anxiously attached to their owners. While Ragdolls are very affectionate and loving cats, they sometimes still need their alone time. Ragdolls will frequently enjoy their own company while playing with an engaging toy or birdwatching out their favorite window.
11. Ragdolls CAN sometimes scratch.
Ragdolls are typically very gentle and don’t frequently extend their claws while playing, which is likely where this misconstruction originates from. However, they still have the natural impulse to scratch every day, just like any other cat. Ragdoll scratching is typically not an issue as long as they are provided with enough scratching posts and regular nail trims.
12. Ragdolls SHOULD be indoor only cats.
We talk about this on our Ragdoll FAQs Page. Ragdolls have been selectively bred to be very gentle, meek and trusting. The outdoors is a very unsafe place for them. Ragdolls should only be taken outside in an enclosed cat carrier or pet stroller.
13. Ragdolls DO come in many different patterns and colors.
There’s a variety of Ragdoll Colors and Patterns to choose from. The true Ragdoll colors are seal, blue, red, cream, tortie, chocolate and lilac. Pattern possibilities include bicolor, mitted and color point, with or without lynx overlay.
14. Ragdolls are NOT the largest cat breed.
Some people incorrectly believe that the Ragdoll is the largest cat breed. The Maine Coon is actually the largest cat breed in the world, and the Ragdoll is the second largest. When it comes to the Size of Ragdolls, males are typically 3-5 pounds heavier than females.
15. Ragdolls ARE slow growing.
The Ragdoll cat matures and develops very slowly when compared to other cat breeds. Ragdolls do not reach their full size until they are 3-4 years old. Their color/pattern also continues to darken until they are 2-3 years of age.
16. Ragdolls DO need to be groomed.
Although their coats are relatively low maintenance, minimal Ragdoll Grooming is still necessary. Ragdolls typically need weekly brushing. They also might benefit from an occasional bath if they are visibly dirty or greasy.
17. Ragdolls are NOT ALWAYS prone to genetic health issues.
With proper genetic testing, Ragdoll cats can generally avoid Ragdoll Health Issues, such as polycystic kidney disease (PKD) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Overall, Ragdolls are usually healthy. If you are thinking about adopting a Ragdoll, be sure to confirm that your breeder does appropriate Genetic Testing and Extensive Health Testing.
18. Ragdolls DO live long lives.
The average lifespan of a Ragdoll cat is 12-17 years old, and it is not uncommon for them to reach 20 years of age. They are one of the longest living breeds of house cats. A healthy diet, active lifestyle and regular vet checks can all help increase your Ragdoll’s lifespan
19. Ragdolls ARE energetic and playful.
Despite being a calm and mellow breed, Ragdolls still enjoy their playtime and owners should be prepared with Ragdoll Enrichment Ideas. Some Ragdolls love playing fetch or scaring their owners. Others get the daily “zoomies”.
20. Ragdolls DO get along with dogs.
Ragdolls are very puppy-like and infamous for winning over “dog people”. There is of course going to be an initial transition period between any animals, but Ragdolls in general are very dog-like. This naturally improves their chances of bonding with dogs.
21. Ragdolls ARE great with children.
Because Ragdolls are so gentle and loving, they are generally an excellent choice for homes with young children. They are usually very tolerant and patient, but it’s still important to teach kids how to be respectful of their personal space.
22. Ragdolls CAN jump.
It is true that the Ragdoll may not be the most athletic or agile breed. Nonetheless, they should still be able to run around and jump onto furniture. Some Ragdolls prefer lounging on the floor while others are partial to perching on a cat tree.
23. Ragdolls DO need social interaction.
The Ragdoll is very puppy-like, social and people-oriented. They might get lonely if their owner is out of the house for the majority of the day. It is recommended to get a second kitty for your Ragdoll if they are going to be left alone frequently.
24. Ragdolls ARE intelligent.
Due to their laidback nature, people sometimes assume that Ragdolls aren’t smart cats. Yet, this is very far from the truth. Ragdolls are very clever. They have been known to learn tricks like dogs and many have discovered how to open doors using the handle. If you’re not careful, they can turn into little escape artists!
25. Ragdolls DO make excellent companions.
This may not be a myth, but we wanted to emphasize that there is truly no sweeter companion than a Ragdoll cat. They are tender and loyal felines that seek companionship and unconditional love, providing the same to their humans in return.
When it comes to the Ragdoll, myths and legends are not uncommon. Learning the truth about the Ragdoll breed, including its characteristics and temperament traits, can help us recognize these felines for their beauty, individuality and uniqueness. If you are searching for Ragdoll Kittens For Sale, keep in mind that they are lovable and endearing animals. They spread joy and happiness to those lucky enough to interact with them. Ragdolls are truly one of a kind!