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

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

Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat Kittens

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat

1. The Snowshoe Was Initially 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.

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.

See also:

• White Ragdoll Cat: Facts, History & Origin (With Pictures)
• Can Ragdoll Cats Swim? Do They Like Water? Vet-Reviewed Information

Featured Image Credit: EVasilieva, Shutterstock