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Many cat breeds have a reputation for being aloof, independent and a little changeable in their manner. One minute they’re your best friend, the next you have to watch out! Some cat breeds even have a reputation as hostile! So how do Ragdolls compare? Are Ragdoll cats friendly? Are they good housemates? Or do you need to watch your back with them?
The good news is that Ragdoll cats are friendly. Very friendly in fact!
I’m going to explain a little more about the Ragdoll temperament, in terms of their amiability so you can understand just how friendly they really are.
Table of Contents
- Are Ragdoll Cats Friendly?
- Why Are Ragdoll Cats Friendly?
- Summary
- Related Posts
Are Ragdoll Cats Friendly?
Yes, Ragdoll cats are friendly. I’ve spoken at length about the Ragdoll cat personality, describing in detail all facets of the breed’s personable nature.
However, just to bash the point home again here, Ragdolls are just about the most friendly cats about town. Part of this is suggested in their name.
Ragdolls are so named because they are so relaxed and respond a little like a rag doll when you pick them up. While they may not go completely floppy like a rag doll, for the most part they don’t resist being picked up.
As Ragdolls are so relaxed in this way it means they make great family companions, especially in settings with young children.
Some cat breeds tend to avoid noisy (and let’s say clumsy) young people and scoot off whenever they’re around. Other breeds dislike “grabby” children and may well scratch to defend themselves.
While the Ragdoll is capable of scratching if manhandled too roughly, their friendly and easy going nature seems to make general “scratchiness” a rarity.
Of course, individual cats can always vary in terms of personality and tolerance but in the majority of cases Ragdoll cats are incredibly friendly and tolerant.
Why Are Ragdoll Cats Friendly?
Originally most likely bred (as far as we know) from Persian, Angora, Birman and Burmese breeds, there is some debate that the friendly nature of Ragdolls is not down to breeding and genetics but possibly nurture and luck.
Notwithstanding, while great for Ragdoll cat lovers or those looking for an uber-friendly cat, the congeniality of the breed can lead to problems in the outdoor world.
Because Ragdolls are so friendly and inquisitive, it can result in them getting into scrapes with other perhaps not so friendly animals.
Domesticated pets such as local dogs can be a problem if a Ragdoll decides to explore their garden. Street dogs too could be an even bigger issue. Other cats in the area might also have territorial issues with a friendly Ragdoll who wants to build relationships with the neighbours!
To be honest, many Ragdoll owners prefer to keep their cats indoors, most usually to keep their long coats from getting mucky. The advantage of this of course is their friendly Ragdoll won’t get itself into fights with hostiles!
Summary – Are Ragdoll Cats Friendly?
Yes, Ragdoll cats are friendly… one of the most friendly cat breeds around, in actual fact.
Ragdolls are very relaxed and outgoing, which makes them just about the most personable cats on earth.
Their easy going nature means they make excellent companions in pretty much any domestic configuration and are ideal in an apartment setting.
Of course it’s wise to remember that upbringing can affect temperament, so you should carefully research Ragdoll cat breeders to ensure you end up with an emotionally well-balanced kittie.
The home environment too can turn a generally friendly Ragdoll into a cat that scratches to defend itself. How you treat any cat at home can have a bearing on its outlook and temperament.
However, most people find that Ragdoll cats are the friendliest of cats and couldn’t imagine sharing their life with any other breed.
Do you have a Ragdoll cat? Is yours friendly or does it buck the general personality trend for the breed? Please leave a comment or question at the bottom of this page.
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