How Big Can Ragdoll Cats Get? You Might Be Surprised

You've probably heard that Ragdolls are a large breed of cats. But how big is big, exactly?

And at what age can you expect them to be fully grown? That's what we will talk about today.

Interested in learning more?

Today, we'll delve into exactly how big these cats can get and when you can expect them to reach their full size. The information doesn't stop there, though.

Stay with us as we unravel more intriguing facts about these cats, such as their lifespan, maintenance needs, and whether you should opt for a male or female Ragdoll.

Ragdoll Cat Size: A Comprehensive Guide

Preparing for a pet's size can significantly impact how comfortably and healthily they live. So, let's talk Ragdoll sizes.

Ragdolls rank among medium to large size cats and they often tower over their domestic counterparts. However, the significant size difference doesn't manifest until the Ragdolls mature a bit.

Can you guess their weight at 12 weeks old?

Ragdoll kittens weigh around three to four pounds at this tender age. Once they hit the five-month mark, prepare for a growth spurt. They'll need more food for optimal development during this phase.

What's interesting is their growth trajectory.

They typically gain one pound per month until their first birthday, by which time they are usually larger and taller than your average cat.

After their first birthday, their growth pace slows down, but they don't fully stop growing until they're around four years old.

This extended development period makes them unique among cats, as they need more time to achieve their full growth potential.

Male vs. Female Sizes: Who's the Champion?

The sizes of full-grown male and female Ragdolls can vary, with males typically outdoing females in both height and weight.

Here's the scoop:

Male Ragdolls can reach 9.5 to 11 inches and weigh between 12 and 21 pounds, while females stand between 9 to 10 inches and weigh around 8 to 15 pounds.

How do they compare to other breeds, you wonder?

Ragdolls usually outsize Persians and Siamese cats, but they come second to the hefty Norwegian Forest Cats.

However, the size can still differ from one Ragdoll to another, significantly influenced by their home environment and lifestyle.

A Question of Longevity: How Long Do Ragdoll Cats Live?

Now, on to their lifespan. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Ragdolls boast an average lifespan of 15 years, but we've heard of Ragdolls reaching an impressive 25 years or more!

A Closer Look at Their Health

Even though Ragdolls are a generally healthy breed, they have some genetic predispositions to certain health conditions.

These include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, arterial thromboembolism, polycystic kidney disease, and feline lower urinary tract diseases.

Why should this matter to you?

Understanding these predispositions can help you keep an eye out for early signs and symptoms for prompt intervention.

This knowledge can significantly impact the longevity and quality of your pet's life.

Feeding Time: What Should Your Ragdoll Eat?

When it comes to feeding, it's best to provide your Ragdoll with an age-appropriate, high-quality diet rich in protein.

Wondering about the type of food?

It could be wet, dry, or raw, as long as it meets the nutritional needs of your Ragdoll. Due to their size and weight, Ragdolls generally eat larger food portions than your average cat.

Here's a pro tip:

It's always best to consult your vet or nutritionist to learn the best food to feed them at different life stages to ensure their nutritional needs are properly met.

The Importance of Exercise

Believe it or not, Ragdolls have a laid-back personality and love nothing more than sleeping or cuddling with you. They're not fans of high-intensity activities or climbing feats.

So what's the issue?

This lifestyle predisposes Ragdolls to potential weight gain that can lead to obesity and other health problems if not managed.

Hence, integrating regular exercise into their routine is crucial.

Want some easy ways to get your Ragdoll moving?

Try turning cuddle time into playtime, or introduce interactive toys that encourage movement. Remember, Ragdolls love company, so anything that involves spending time with you will likely be a hit.

Other longevity factors include completing vaccinations, spaying females and neutering males, and enriching their general lifestyle.

Always remember, your top priority should be ensuring your cat lives a healthy life.

Are Ragdolls High Maintenance?

Contrary to what you might think, Ragdolls are relatively low-maintenance and are often recommended for first-time cat owners.

Grooming & Hygiene: What Does It Entail?

Although Ragdolls have long fur, they have a minimal undercoat, which means they shed less and are less prone to tangling.

Consequently, they don't require frequent grooming. Brushing twice or three times a week is usually enough.

But there's a catch!

Keeping a regular grooming schedule for nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing is crucial to keep them in top shape.

And remember, even though they're generally clean, especially if they stay indoors, a bath every two months helps keep their skin's natural oils balanced.

The Attention Seekers: Are They?

Ragdolls, being affectionate creatures by nature, can demand a significant amount of your attention. Ensure you allocate enough cuddle time to keep them from feeling lonely.

But don't worry!

Ragdolls are social and love the company of both humans and other pets. So, whether it's family members or another pet, there's always someone to keep your Ragdoll company.

Male or Female: Which One Is Right for You?

If you're considering bringing a Ragdoll into your home, one of the decisions you'll have to make is whether to opt for a male or female. Gender can influence their size, demeanor, and overall health.

So, what are the differences?

Males are generally larger and heavier, often weighing over 20 pounds and standing as tall as 11 inches.

Females, on the other hand, tend to weigh between 10 and 15 pounds and stand at an average height of 9 inches.

What's more, male and female Ragdolls exhibit different personality traits. Males are typically more affectionate and have a more relaxed disposition than females.

In contrast, females can be a bit more aloof and cautious, occasionally showing signs of aggression when protecting their young.

What about their health?

Males are more prone to urinary tract issues, but a proper diet can help prevent this. Ultimately, the choice between a male and female Ragdoll will come down to your personal preference.

Is a Ragdoll Right for You?

Ragdoll cats are among the largest cat breeds, so ensure you have the space and resources to offer them a suitable home environment.

This ensures a harmonious relationship with your pet and allows you to enjoy many happy years together.

Looking for more on this captivating breed? Check out the following posts:

Why Is My Ragdoll Cat So Small?

Are Ragdolls Born White: Yes, And Here’s Why

A stretch and a purr to OpenAI's ChatGPT for assisting with this article.