In this article
View 8 More +Breed Overview
Height:
23–28 cm
Weight:
15–20 pounds
Lifespan:
12–15 years
Colors:
Black, smoke, silver, brown, gray
Suitable for:
Families, indoor living, people with other pets
Temperament:
Calm, gentle, and sociable
Can Ragdolls be black? Interestingly, this issue still raises a lot of controversy in the Ragdoll community. Yes, there is such a thing as a black Ragdoll. However, black and other solid-colored Ragdolls struggle to gain legitimacy, especially in official pet competitions. Black ragdolls are not new. They have been around since the Ragdoll breed entered the scene in the 1960s and are still sold by breeders today.
While solid Ragdolls may lack the traditional Ragdoll points (mask, ears, eyes, legs, and tails), they have everything you would expect in a Ragdoll, from the large size to the silky coat texture and the docile personality. But what sets the Ragdoll cat apart, and should you expect any difference from the black cuties? Read on to find out.
Black Ragdoll Characteristics
3 Little-Known Facts About Black Ragdoll Cats
1. Black Ragdolls Aren’t Accepted in Most Competitions
Although many breeders are now selling more black and solid-colored Ragdolls alongside their pointed counterparts, you cannot yet show your black Ragdoll in official competitions. According to the International Cat Association, you can only show non-pointed Ragdolls as pets and not in any other association.
2. Black Ragdolls Can Produce Pointed Ragdolls
Although black Ragdolls don’t have the traditional points, they possess the gene. If you breed a traditional Ragdoll with a black one, you will produce black and pointed kittens. Even if you breed two black Ragdolls, there is a likelihood that one of the kittens will be pointed.
3. The Name Ragdoll is Derived from the Cat’s Behavior
The name Ragdoll comes from the cat’s tendency to relax and go limp when picked up. If you pick a Ragdoll up, they will collapse into your arms like a ragdoll and allow you to cuddle them, which they love and enjoy.
Temperament & Intelligence of the Black Ragdoll Cat
Ragdoll cats are calm, gentle, and sociable. They show affection by snuggling in your bed, leaping into your lap occasionally, and following you around the house. Although they are considered the most docile cats, they can also be active. They will fetch balls when you throw them and gladly participate in any family activity. Ragdolls are also well-mannered and easy to live with.
These cats are also very intelligent. Not only are they quick to learn new things, but they are also demonstrably affectionate. They will fall over the moon when you cuddle them and meet you at the door when you get home. They can also communicate their food needs quite effectively and are sensitive to their food and sleep schedules. Moreover, they can show many emotions, from frustration to happiness and sadness.
Are These Cats Good for Families? 👪
A Ragdoll is an excellent pet to have around if you have a family. They will get along with everybody and participate in all your fun activities. Whether you want to play dress-up or throw toys for them to catch, these furry friends are very cooperative. They will follow you around the house and greet people at the door when they arrive. Your children are also safe around them since they rarely extend their claws during playtime.
Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?
Thanks to their amiable disposition, a Ragdoll will get along fine with other pets as long as they are cat-friendly. If you have a dog around the house, buying a Ragdoll cat could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship. However, remember to socialize them early for the best results.
Things to Know When Owning a Black Ragdoll Cat
Pets require care and attention for proper growth and development. However, different pets have varying needs and preferences. Here is what you need to know before owning a black Ragdoll cat.
Food & Diet Requirements 🐡
When your black Ragdoll is growing, you are encouraged to feed them a little more to ensure they get all the required nutrients for growth. After the kitten has finished its food, give it a little more until it stops eating. However, you have to cut back on the food when your Ragdoll is fully grown to prevent obesity. How much you feed them depends on the growth rate and current health. So make sure you discuss the exact amounts with your vet.
Canned food is a better option compared to dry food. While dry food has high levels of grain and other fillers, canned food is a good source of proteins, and a Ragdoll needs high amounts of it to thrive. Vitamins and mineral supplements are unnecessary, but the vet may recommend them if your cat has underlying health conditions.
Exercise 🐈
Ragdolls are fairly large cats and can weigh between 15 and 20 pounds. If your cat doesn’t get enough exercise, they are likely to get obese, leading to various health problems. Since Ragdolls are generally playful, they will be receptive to play and exercise. A game of fetch is a good start since Ragdolls love balls.
Training 🧶
Ragdolls are sometimes referred to as “the dogs of the cat world, ” not just because of their large size. Apart from being loyal and playful, they are also very intelligent and quickly pick up new tricks. The key is to reward them whenever they succeed at doing a trick. Find something they like and treat them when they follow your commands.
Grooming ✂️
Ragdolls have a thick, soft coat. Brushing their hair at least twice every week will help prevent tangles, mats, and excessive shedding. You should also trim their claws regularly and clean their ears by wiping them gently with a damp cloth. If you keep the coat well-groomed, a full bath is not necessary.
Your black Ragdoll will enjoy their grooming session and get excited when you brush their coat. Additionally, a grooming session is a perfect opportunity to check for signs of illness. Check the eyes for any discharge and examine the ears, paws, teeth, and gums for anything unusual.
Health and Conditions 🏥
All cat breeds experience health issues passed down through genetics. Although Ragdolls are generally healthy, they can experience health conditions that may include the following;
- Mouth and gum disease
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Bladder stones
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Mucopolysaccharidosis
If you buy a Ragdoll from a reputable breeder, they will already have screened the kitten for health issues. But it is also important to screen your pet through adulthood since some health problems will not manifest until later in the cat’s life. Having a good vet at your side is essential.
Male vs Female
Male Ragdolls grow bigger compared to their female counterparts. Regarding their personality, it is hard to draw a definitive line between male and female Ragdolls. Generally, males are more relaxed and friendlier than females.
In reality, your Ragdoll’s personality will largely be shaped by their environment and upbringing and not necessarily their gender. That’s why buying a Ragdoll from a reputable dealer is so important. Proper care and upbringing will positively impact your pet’s personality and behavior. How you treat the cat after buying it is equally as important.
Final Thoughts
A spotted, black, or other solid Ragdoll is not different from the traditional Ragdoll. They are also calm, gentle, and sociable and make very good pets. However, they may not be the best option to enter your pet into competitions. Overall, the Ragdoll is a fascinating breed, no matter which color or pattern they have. Compared to other cats, Ragdolls are relatively large and could be more expensive owing to its immense popularity. If you want a loyal and trusting pet that is affectionate without being needy, a Ragdoll might be just what you need.
Featured Image Credit: Stanislav Kim, Shutterstock
