How Big Are Ragdoll Cats? | Ragdoll Size Chart
Ragdolls are often referred to as gentle giants. They typically have larger boning when compared to the majority of other cat breeds and they are overall big cats. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the true size of a Ragdoll cat and factors associated with their unique growth and development.
Factors Influencing Ragdoll Size
There are many variables that effect how big a Ragdoll cat will get. Some of these aspects are set in stone before a Ragdoll is even born, while others can be influenced based on the Ragdoll’s lifestyle.
Genetics: While Ragdolls are large cats, size can vary between different Ragdoll “lines” or families. The size of a Ragdoll is often inherited from their parents and grandparents. However, there is no guarantee when it comes to Ragdoll size and there is no way to adequately predict a Ragdoll kitten’s full-grown size.
Gender: Size will also differ between male and female Ragdolls. Male Ragdolls are typically larger and bigger boned when compared to female Ragdolls.
Diet: What a Ragdoll eats can impact how big they get, as well as their body composition. Low-quality cat food that’s heavy in carbs can lead to a Ragdoll gaining more fat. A high-quality cat food rich in animal protein can promote lean muscle mass.
Activity Level: A Ragdoll’s movement can also affect their weight. When is comes to Health Concerns in the Ragdoll Breed, obesity is one to be aware of. You can help your Ragdoll maintain a healthy weight by encouraging an active lifestyle through playtime and enrichment activities.
The Average Ragdoll Weight
If you’re Deciding Between a Male or Female Ragdoll, size difference is something to take into consideration. On average, male Ragdolls are 3-5 pounds heavier than female Ragdolls. However, this is a generalization and some female Ragdolls might still grow to be just as large as a male.
Male Ragdoll Weight: Male Ragdolls typically grow to be 12-20 pounds. Some can even reach as big as 25 pounds.
Female Ragdoll Weight: On average, Female Ragdolls are 9-15 pounds. They also tend to look slightly more delicate than their male counterpart.
How Long is a Ragdoll Cat?
The average length of a full-grown Ragdoll cat is 16-21 inches, not including the length of the tail. If you were to include the length of their tail in the measurement as well, then they can reach up to 40 inches long. The Ragdoll Breed Standard calls for a long tail length in this breed, so their tails can sometimes reach the same length as their full body – which sure is long!
How Tall is a Ragdoll Cat?
The average height of a Ragdoll is 8-14 inches. This makes them not much taller than an average domestic cat. Ragdolls are generally “longer” cats, rather than “taller”.
When is a Ragdoll Cat Full-Grown?
The Ragdoll is a slow maturing cat breed. Ragdolls are typically not considered “full-grown” until they reach 3-4 years of age. Fun fact: Ragdoll Coloring and Patterns continue to darken and deepen until they reach close to this age as well.
Is the Ragdoll the Largest Cat Breed?
Because Ragdolls are so large, there is a Ragdoll Myth that they are the biggest cat breed in the world. However, they are not quite the largest. The Maine Coon cat takes the cake for the biggest cat breed, while the Ragdoll is second largest cat breed. Both the Ragdoll and the Maine Coon are lovable and endearing “gentle giants”.
Ragdoll Growth & Size Chart
In order to adequately understand how a Ragdoll cat grows, we have included a Ragdoll Growth Chart for reference. This factors in the average weight and length of a Ragdoll from 1 day old up to 2+ years old. It’s important to note that this chart is a generality, and some Ragdolls will fall outside of this standard range.
Ragdoll Growth Stages
As a Ragdoll cat grows and develops, they go through different phases and reach distinctive milestones. There are three main stages of Ragdoll growth and development, as outlined below.
Kittenhood (0-12 Months): During the first year of a Ragdoll’s life, they will go through a very rapid growth spurt. To give you an idea, Ragdoll kittens will reach 60-80% of their full growth during this time period.
Adulthood (1-5 Years): Once a feline reaches 1 year old, they are considered an adult. During the time period of adulthood, Ragdolls continue to build muscle mass and increase in size. As noted above, a Ragdoll cat is not full grown until they reach 3-4 years old.
Senior Years (6+ Years): As Ragdolls enter their later years, they may experience some decline in their muscle mass and physical abilities. It is important to monitor their agility and appetite to help them maintain a healthy weight and body composition.
Ragdoll Cat Size vs. Domestic Cat Size
In order to accurately represent the true size of a Ragdoll cat, let’s compare a Ragdoll to a typical domestic house cat. While they aren’t vastly different when you compare their average length and height, there is a big distinction when it comes to the weight of a Ragdoll cat verses a domestic cat. Ragdolls can be hefty and big boned. Feel free to reference the chart below to get a better illustration of this comparison.
Pastel Ragdolls | Do We Breed Large Ragdolls?
Here at Pastel Ragdolls, we do aim to produce beautiful and large Ragdolls that conform to the established breed standard. However, we prioritize healthy Ragdolls above all else! Rather than getting too wrapped up on size when Choosing a Ragdoll Cat Breeder, we recommend finding a breeder that focuses on breeding Health Tested Ragdolls instead.
If big Ragdoll size is nonnegotiable to you, consider finding a reputable Ragdoll breeder and ask them which line consistently produces the largest size in their program. This way, you can ensure you are not risking health just for large size.
The Loveable and Big Ragdoll Cat
Ragdoll cats are sweet and adorable teddy bears that love lounging around the house and following you from room to room. Their large size is just one of the many features that makes them so charming and special! If you are looking to Adopt a Ragdoll Kitten, Pastel Ragdolls frequently has Ragdoll Kittens For Sale and Retired Ragdoll Cats For Sale. We would be happy to match you with an incredible Ragdoll kitten or cat that fits your preferences.