As we always say, you have to do your research before getting a pet. Today, we'll help you get to know two breeds of cats better, Ragdolls and Persians -so that you will know which one is the perfect feline companion for you. We asked cat experts pertinent details about these two and here's what they said.
Persians and Ragdolls share similar characteristics and have major differences as well, especially when it comes to their attachment to humans, grooming needs, and health issues. You would need to decide if you'll be able to provide for their needs so that you can choose which breed is the perfect cat companion for you.
Hang on so we can tell you more about the similarities and differences between these two cats. We'll also help you in choosing the right cat for you. Lastly, let's talk about the possibility of breeding a Ragdoll cat with a Persian for the purr-fect house pet.
Breed Comparison & Differences
Ragdolls and Persians are two of the most popular cat breeds around the world. They are both pedigreed, equally good-looking, and have pleasing personalities. That's why it's no wonder that they've won the hearts of cat lovers everywhere.
But just as they share similarities, they also have differences that can make a huge impact on your decision when choosing which breed is the right one for you.
So, let's take a look at how Persians and Ragdoll cats are alike and different so you can make an informed choice.
Appearance & Size
Persian cats have round faces and massive heads. They have small tipped ears, large round eyes, and a distinct short and broad nose with a break right where the eyes meet. Their bodies are large and heavily boned with a short tail and short and thick legs.
Persians come in different colors such as white, blue, black, red, cream, chocolate, and lilac. Those are just for the solid colors alone. They also have the Himalayan, silver and golden, smoke and shaded, tabby, parti-color, calico, and bi-color Persians.
Ragdoll cats have large heads with vivid blue eyes. They have medium and moderately flared ears, a straight nose, and a strong chin. They have medium to large size bodies, moderately long legs, and a long tail.
These felines can sport any of the six color points namely seal, chocolate, blue, lilac, cream, and red. Their fur patterns can be mitted, colorpoint, van, and bi-color.
Personality
Persians have sweet, gentle, and playful personalities. It may take a while before they warm up to you but once they do, you can be assured of their constant companionship. They are generally quiet and would rather communicate with their large expressive eyes.
Unlike other felines, they do not enjoy climbing and jumping. They would prefer to stay at your feet or right next to their favorite furniture.
Ragdolls are intelligent and very laidback. They love being close to other people as they are a very loving and affectionate breed. They don't play favorites which means they'll enjoy the company of every member of the family.
They also love to play preferably with interactive toys or with other people and pets. They can also be taught simple games and tricks that would make great bonding activities with them as well.
Grooming
Persians have a long and thick coat. They should be staying indoors so that their fur won't get dirty. They also need to be brushed daily to prevent hairballs and tangles. A regular bath schedule needs to be established early on to ensure that their coats are clean and healthy all the time.
Ragdolls have moderately long fur as well but they only have a minimal undercoat. This makes them less prone to shedding and matting. As such, they don't require constant brushing. They are also generally clean, so bath time can be scheduled at least once in two months only.
Health & Lifespan
The flat-faced Persians are prone to dental and respiratory problems. They also have a high risk of kidney disease, haircoat disorder, and cancer. But with proper care, diet, and exercise, they can live up to 17 years or even more.
Ragdolls are generally a healthy breed and have a lifespan of 20 years. But they might inherit certain diseases such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease, and urinary tract infections so it's still best to have regular medical checkups to help improve their quality of life.
This just goes to show that each cat is unique and special. Hopefully, knowing this information about these two breeds would help you determine which one is right for you.
Choosing the Right Cat Breed for You
The start of responsible pet ownership is knowing everything there is to know about the cat breed that you want to get. If you have different breeds on your list, here are some things for you to consider to help you decide which one is best for you.
Home Environment
Are you living by yourself or do you have kids with you? Do you have enough space for a pet in your house especially if it's a large cat?
Cats like to have a place that they can call their own. They prefer high spaces, too. They also need scratching posts, cat trees, and other accessories to keep them comfortable and occupied.
Special Needs
Take note also if the particular breed has special needs especially when it comes to nutrition, exercise, and grooming.
All cats need proper care and grooming. But some will require more frequent maintenance compared to others. For example, you need to brush the hair of Persian cats every day to avoid mats and tangles.
Some pedigree cats need to be put on a specific diet. Persians need their kibbles to be of the right size so they can eat them easily. They also need their food to contain L-tyrosine and fish oil to help them maintain their long and beautiful coats.
Relationship
Cats do not just need food and nutrition. They also need exercise and mental stimulation. Some breeds are independent while others prefer to be close to their humans.
Do you have the time to spend with your cat? Can you provide her with the different forms of exercise that she needs to keep her physically and mentally active? Do you want a cat that's cuddly or do you prefer a self-reliant feline?
It will all boil down to your preference but set your expectations about the relationship that you will have with your pet. Think about her needs and wellbeing and if you can provide them so that your pet will live a happy and healthy life with you and your family.
Other Pets
If you have other pets in the house, you should also consider their disposition and personality. Do they have previous experience with cats or will they get along well with other pets? You don't want to have a headache trying to get them to like each other.
Take the time to decide and do your research diligently. In the end, only you can say which breed is the perfect match for you.
Can Ragdolls Breed with Persians?
Given that each breed has its strengths and endearing personality, you might be wondering if these two cats can be bred together in the hopes of producing the purr-fect cat breed.
Well, we've got news for you! Breeders have already tried mixing these two creatures and the result was the Persian Ragdoll mix. It can look like either of the two depending on the dominant hereditary genes from their parent breeds.
Male Persian Ragdolls weigh heavier than their female counterparts. They have an average weight of around 20 pounds while female felines of this crossbreed typically weigh 15 pounds upon reaching adulthood.
They develop at a moderate pace and you can expect them to reach their full growth and maturity when they turn three years of age. They live a long life averaging 20 years as crossbreed felines usually have a longer life span than their purebred parent breeds.
But when it comes to personality, you can expect Persian ragdoll cats to be sociable and kind to people of all ages. That's why they are such great housepets! They love being with their humans and crave their love and companionship.
They can be quiet in their corner as they are not overly active. But they would also need time to play to keep their bodies fit and sound.
It sounds like Persian Ragdolls are the perfect mix that cat lovers are looking for.
Final Thoughts
The right breed for you is one that'll suit your personality and lifestyle. Ragdolls and Persians both need love and consideration from their pet parents so choose one whose needs who can provide so that you can give your pet a long, happy, and healthy life.
To know more about these breeds of cats, you may read the following posts: