Ragdoll Cat vs. Siberian Cat

Since there are so many different cat breeds to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which one is right for your home and lifestyle. Two of today’s most popular long-haired cat breeds are the Ragdoll and the Siberian. While the Ragdoll is a relatively new breed, having been developed in the 1960s in California, the Siberian originates from Russia and boasts a rich history that spans over a thousand years. Which one is the best fit for you? Let’s dive into the key differences between these two breeds and what truly sets them apart, helping you make an informed decision on which furry friend to adopt!

Visual Comparison

Ragdolls and Siberians are both exceptionally beautiful cats, but there are some stark visual differences between the two. Below we have included photos of both a Ragdoll cat and a Siberian cat for contrast. The photographed Ragdoll is a blue bicolor and the photographed Siberian is a brown tabby.

Ragdoll Cat

Siberian Cat

At a Glance

We have added a chart for a quick and easy comparison of the Ragdoll cat and the Siberian cat. Overall, the Siberian tends to be slightly smaller on average and requires more attention when it comes to grooming and exercise. However, both breeds make wonderful companions and are generally friendly with children and other household pets.

Ragdoll Cat vs. Siberian Cat Comparison Chart

Ragdoll Cat or Siberian Cat - Size & Appearance

Ragdoll Cat:

• Size: Ragdolls are known for their impressive size. Males typically weigh between 12-20 pounds, while females are a bit smaller, ranging from 9-15 pounds. This ranks the Size of the Ragdoll as the second largest domestic cat breed after the Maine Coon.

• Body Structure: Ragdolls have a long, muscular frame. Their bodies are solid, yet soft and full of plush fur.

• Coat & Color: They have medium to long bunny coats, with a silky texture that requires low-medium maintenance. Their coats are colorpoint (like Siamese), with darker shades on the ears, face, paws, and tail. Common colors include seal and blue. True Ragdolls always have striking blue eyes.

• Face & Ears: According to the Ragdoll Breed Standard, they have have a rounded, somewhat broad face with medium-sized ears that give them a sweet and innocent look.

Siberian Cat:

• Size: Siberians are also quite large, but their size tends to be a bit more compact when compared to Ragdolls. Male Siberians generally weigh between 12-15 pounds, while females are usually around 8-12 pounds.

• Body Structure: Siberians are strong and athletic, with a sturdy build, reflecting their origins in cold climates. They have a more triangular head and larger, more upright ears compared to the Ragdoll.

• Coat & Color: The Siberian's coat is dense, triple-layered, and waterproof—perfect for surviving harsh Siberian winters. Their fur is medium to long in length. The breed comes in a variety of colors and patterns, including tabby, bicolor, and solid. Their eyes are often green or gold.

• Face & Ears: Siberians have a more angular face with larger ears, giving them a more "wild" appearance compared to the soft, rounded look of the Ragdoll.

Ragdoll vs. Siberian - Temperament

Ragdoll Cat:

• Gentle & Laid-back: Ragdolls are often described as “dog-like” because of their mellow, easygoing nature. They tend to follow their humans around the house, preferring to be in the same room or even being a Ragdoll Lap Cat. Their calm demeanor means they're usually not easily startled or upset.

• Affectionate & Relaxed: When picked up, Ragdolls tend to go limp—hence the name "Ragdoll"—making them one of the most affectionate cat breeds around. They form deep bonds with their owners and enjoy being the center of attention, but they don’t demand it aggressively. They are not particularly high-energy cats and enjoy lounging around.

Siberian Cat:

• Playful & Energetic: While the Siberian can also be affectionate, it has a bit more spunk. These cats are highly intelligent and playful, often enjoying interactive play sessions and puzzles. They're more independent than the Ragdoll, preferring to entertain themselves for periods, but they still love attention.

• Curious & Adventurous: Siberians have a curious nature and can be quite active when they’re in the mood. They love climbing, jumping, and sometimes even playing in water, which adds an adventurous edge to their personality compared to the calmer Ragdoll.

Ragdoll Cat vs. Siberian Cat - Activity Level

Ragdoll Cat:

• Low to Moderate Activity: Ragdolls are known for their relaxed nature. They are generally not high-energy cats and prefer a more laid-back lifestyle. You'll often find them lounging around the house, watching the world go by, or curled up in cozy spots.

• Playful, but Relaxed: While they enjoy playtime, it’s usually more low-key. You might see them chasing a toy or pouncing occasionally, but it’s usually not with the same level of intensity as other breeds. They’ll likely play for a short period, then settle back down for a nap or cuddle session.

Siberian Cat:

• Moderate to High Activity: Siberians are more energetic and playful, with a higher activity level compared to Ragdolls. They are more curious and enjoy engaging with their environment, whether it’s climbing, jumping, or chasing after toys. They also love to explore new spaces, which means they’ll likely be more active around the house.

• Playful and Adventurous: Siberians need stimulation to keep them happy. They thrive on interactive play and often enjoy games that involve jumping, climbing, or even fetching. Their love for adventure might even make them seek out new spaces to explore. While they enjoy human affection, they likely won’t be couch potatoes like Ragdolls tend to be.

Ragdoll Cat or Siberian Cat - Overall Health

Ragdoll Cat:

• Generally Healthy, but Prone to Certain Conditions: Ragdolls are generally healthy cats, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain hereditary conditions. The two most Common Health Issues in Ragdolls are:

  • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This is the most common heart disease in cats, particularly in Ragdolls. It’s a condition where the heart muscle thickens, potentially leading to heart failure. Regular vet check-ups and monitoring can help manage this condition.

  • Kidney Disease (Polycystic Kidney Disease - PKD): Some Ragdolls can develop PKD, a genetic disorder that causes fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys, affecting their function. Be sure to Choose a Ragdoll Breeder who does genetic testing for this condition in addition to testing for HCM.

• Lifespan: The Lifespan of Ragdoll Cats is typically 10 to 15 years, although some can live into their late teens with proper care.

• General Care Needs: While they’re generally healthy, Ragdolls should receive regular check-ups and a high quality, balanced diet. They are more susceptible to obesity, especially because of their laid-back nature, so keeping them active and managing their weight is important.

Siberian Cat:

• Also Generally Healthy, but Prone to Certain Conditions: Coming from harsh climates, Siberians have developed strong immune systems and are generally very resilient. They have fewer breed-specific genetic problems compared to other purebred cats.

  • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): Like the Ragdoll, Siberians can also be prone to HCM, though it's less commonly seen in the breed. Routine heart health monitoring is a good idea, especially in older cats.

  • Hip Dysplasia: This is a rare but possible issue in Siberians, where the hip joints develop abnormally, leading to arthritis or mobility problems. It’s not widespread, but some lines of Siberians may be more prone to it.

• Lifespan: Siberians typically live around 8 to 10 years, with some reaching their late teens or early twenties with good care.

• General Care Needs: Siberians are hardy and don’t require special care beyond standard preventative measures and routine vet checks.

Ragdoll vs. Siberian - Allergies, Shedding & Grooming

Ragdoll Cat:

• Hypoallergenic Claims: Ragdolls are not hypoallergenic, but some people with mild allergies might find them more tolerable. This is mainly because Ragdolls have a silky, semi-long coat that sheds less than other long-haired breeds, and they produce fewer allergens. However, they still produce the primary allergens (fel d 1 protein) in their saliva.

• Moderate Shedding: Ragdolls Shed more than short-haired cats but less than most other long-haired breeds. They shed throughout the year but more heavily during the seasonal changes (spring and fall).

• Grooming Needs: When it comes to Ragdoll Grooming, Ragdolls have relatively low needs compared to other long-haired breeds. Their bunny coat doesn’t mat as easily as some others, but weekly brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and to remove loose hairs.

Siberian Cat:

• Hypoallergenic Claims: Siberians are often touted as more hypoallergenic than many other cat breeds, which is why they’re commonly recommended for allergy sufferers. While they’re not entirely allergy-free, some studies suggest that Siberians may produce lower levels of fel d 1, the protein that causes most cat allergies. Additionally, their thick triple-layered coat may help trap the allergen-producing proteins closer to their skin, preventing it from becoming airborne as easily.

• Heavy Shedding: Siberians shed heavily, especially in the spring and fall. They shed more than Ragdolls due to their dense coat, which is adapted for cold climates.

• Grooming Needs: Siberians, with their thick, triple-layer coat, require more frequent grooming than Ragdolls. While their coat is designed to withstand cold climates and is somewhat water-resistant, it is prone to matting if not properly maintained. Siberians typically need twice-weekly grooming to prevent mats and tangles, especially during shedding season (spring and fall).

The Final Verdict

Both the Ragdoll and Siberian are wonderful cats, each with their own unique qualities that cater to different types of cat owners. If you prefer a playful, active cat with a bit more independence and can handle a bit more grooming and shedding, the Siberian could be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a calm, affectionate companion who loves to lounge and isn’t too demanding in terms of grooming or exercise, the Ragdoll might be your perfect match. Whatever breed you choose, both cats offer loyalty, affection, and charm that will make them a cherished part of your family for years to come!

Are You Ready to Adopt a Ragdoll Kitten?

If you’ve decided on a Ragdoll and are looking for Ragdoll Kittens for Sale, be sure to work with a reputable breeder. We have written an additional blog post to teach prospective Ragdoll adopters How to Find Ragdoll Kittens Near Me. If you’ve decided on a Siberian kitten instead, be sure to visit this link for a list of TICA Registered Siberian Breeders.