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Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat Info: Pictures, Temperament & Traits

Written by: Catster Editorial Team

Last Updated on January 30, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

snowshoe cat

Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat Info: Pictures, Temperament & Traits

Snowshoe and Ragdoll cats are two popular breeds with color point coats and more “dog-like” personalities. Breeders have been mixing these two cats to create the ideal combination of looks and temperament, leading to the Snowshoe Ragdoll cat.

While there are many similarities between these two cats, it’s important to understand what you can expect when bringing home a Snowshoe Ragdoll cat. Find out more about these docile, affectionate cats.

Breed Overview

Height:

8–13 inches

Weight:

8–20 pounds

Lifespan:

12–18 years

Colors:

Seal, cream, blue, red, lilac, chocolate

Suitable for:

Families, single owners, hands-on owners

Temperament:

Friendly, sweet, sociable, affectionate

The Snowshoe and the Ragdoll cat are each named for their distinctive traits. The Snowshoe, a relatively rare breed, is named for the signature white paws that inspired the “Snowshoe” name. The Ragdoll is named for its tendency to flop over when held, like a ragdoll. Whichever traits the mixed breed takes on, these cat breeds share a sweet temperament and relaxed demeanor.

Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat Characteristics

Energy
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A high-energy cat needs a lot of physical and mental stimulation to keep healthy and happy, while a low-energy cat needs minimal physical activity, but still needs mental stimulation. When choosing a cat, It’s important to ensure their energy levels match your lifestyle.
Trainability
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Cats that are easy-to-train are more willing and skilled at quickly learning prompts and actions with minimal training. Harder-to-train cats are usually more stubborn or aloof and require a bit more patience and practice.
Health
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Certain cat breeds are more prone to various genetic health problems, and some more than others. This doesn’t mean that every cat in those breeds will have these issues, but they do have an increased risk, so it’s important to understand and prepare for any additional needs they may require.
Lifespan
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Due to their size or potential genetic health issues of a specific breed, some cats have shorter lifespans than others. Proper nutrition, exercise, mental stimulation, and hygiene also play an important role in your cat’s lifespan and quality of life.
Sociability
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Some cat breeds are more social than others, both towards humans and other cats and animals. Cats that are more social have a tendency to rub up on strangers for scratches or jump on laps for cuddles, while cats that are less social shy away, hide, are more cautious, and even potentially aggressive. No matter the breed or gender, it’s important to socialize your cat and expose them to many different situations.

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Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat Kittens

 

3 Ragdoll kittens in a row on blue background
Image Credit: Linn Currie, Shutterstock

While Ragdoll cats are becoming more popular and available, Snowshoe cats are relatively rare because of the distinct white paws that are challenging to produce. As a result, the Snowshoe Ragdoll mixed breed can be extremely hard to find. This breed is not recognized by any cat breed association and doesn’t have organized breeding.

That said, you may have luck finding Snowshoe Ragdoll kittens from a breeder. Shelters and rescues, particularly breed-specific ones, may have Snowshoe Ragdoll kittens as well. If you’re set on finding a mix of the Snowshoe and Ragdoll, take your time and keep looking until you find the perfect match.

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Temperament & Intelligence of the Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat

Both the Snowshoe and the Ragdoll cat are prized for their temperament. These cats are known for being more “dog-like” or “puppy-like” in their temperament, so they’re perfect for owners who enjoy a more affectionate and vocal cat. These cats are typically mellow and sweet-tempered, but they dislike being left alone for long periods. They lack the independence of some other cat breeds.

Are These Cats Good for Families?

The Snowshoe Ragdoll mix is an ideal cat breed for families. They’re sweet and get along well with children of all ages, but it’s crucial that you monitor interactions to ensure that children are playing appropriately with the cat. If your cat takes on the floppy quality of the Ragdoll parent, it’s easy for children to accidentally hurt them during play.

 

Ragdoll vs Snowshoe Cat side by side
Image Credit: (L) madeinitaly4k, Shutterstock, (R) Anna Krivitskaya, Shutterstock

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are generally compatible with other pets, including dogs and other cats. They are still cats and have a predatory nature, however, so it’s best to keep them separated from small animals like hamsters, guinea pigs, birds, reptiles, and fish, which they may stalk and chase. You should also be careful with dog breeds that have high prey drive since Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are not as confrontational as other cat breeds.

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Things to Know When Owning a Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat:

If you’re considering bringing home a Snowshoe Ragdoll cat, here’s everything you need to know about keeping these cats happy and healthy.

Food & Diet Requirements

Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are larger cats and require a high-quality diet that suits their energy and dietary needs without adding too much weight. With their mellow temperament and size, these cats may be prone to obesity and a host of health problems, including diabetes or heart disease. Like other cat breeds, the Snowshoe Ragdoll cat should have a diet with high protein, moderate fat, and minimal carbohydrates. It’s best to feed your cat quality commercial cat food to ensure your cat gets all the nutrition they need to stay healthy.

a ragdoll cat eating dry food
Image Credit: Snowice_81, Shutterstock

Exercise

Though Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are more relaxed than other cat breeds, they are still active. They enjoy time with their owners and like to run, jump, and play. They’re also unique in that they enjoy water, particularly running water, and may have fun swimming. It’s crucial to provide your cat with a lot of enrichment using cat perches, scratch posts, and playtime.

Training

Snowshoe cats and Ragdoll cats are intelligent cats and eager to please, so they take well to training. It’s best to use positive-reinforcement training and gentle methods to teach your cat basic obedience and encourage tricks. With the right training, these cats can even be taught to come when called, sit, lay, roll over, and fetch. Spending time training your cat not only keeps your cat entertained but also strengthens your bond.

Ragdoll cat walking through water
Image Credit: whitejellybeans, Shutterstock

Grooming

With the Ragdoll parent, it’s possible that your cat will have a long and silky coat that takes some work to maintain. These cats often need to be brushed at least twice a week to avoid excess shedding and matting, especially around the hindquarters and head. You won’t need to bathe your cat often, but you should trim their nails and brush their teeth regularly.

Health and Conditions

Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are generally healthy but may be prone to a number of health conditions, especially if one or both of the parents have genetic health conditions. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease, eye conditions, and feline lower urinary tract disease may be common. These cats may be prone to skin conditions as well, particularly skin allergies.

Minor Conditions
  • Allergies
  • Skin conditions
  • Feline lower urinary tract disease
Serious Conditions
  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
  • Polycystic kidney disease
  • Certain cancers
  • Feline leukemia
  • Eye conditions

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Male vs Female

Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are individuals, so choosing between a male and a female depends on your individual preferences. Many of the behavioral issues that occur in the sexes are related to hormones, such as vocalization, roaming, and fighting, so you can reduce or prevent them with spaying or neutering. In addition, spaying or neutering your cat prevents reproductive health conditions like certain cancers or infections, as well as eliminates the risk of accidental litter that contributes to overpopulation.

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3 Little-Known Facts About the Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat

1. The Snowshoe Was Originally Called Silver Laces

Snowshoe cats were originally produced in Philadelphia by a Siamese breeder whose cats had a litter of three kittens with white feet. She then began a breeding program to produce “Silver Laces”, the nickname for this breed trait.


2. Snowshoe and Ragdoll Cats Are Rare

Despite being around for 45 years, Snowshoe cats are rare because of the difficulty of producing the correct coat markings. Ragdoll cats are popular and not as rare, but they are difficult to breed to get the specific qualities they are known for. As a result, the Snowshoe Ragdoll mix is extremely rare.


3. Snowshoe and Ragdoll Cats Love Water

It’s well known that cats generally don’t like water (with some exceptions), but the Snowshoe and Ragdoll breeds are two that love it. Ragdolls are known to be intrigued by the sound of running water, to the point of sneaking up on owners while in the shower or running the sink, and Snowshoe cats love to play in running water and may even swim.

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Final Thoughts

Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are a unique mix of two popular and beautiful cat breeds. They share pointed coats, docile personalities, and agreeable temperaments, making them ideal for cat owners of all types. However, these cats are rare and difficult to find and can be prone to health problems from breeding. Do your due diligence if you’re trying to find a Snowshoe Ragdoll to bring home.


Featured Image Credit: EVasilieva, Shutterstock

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