It is easy to get confused between Siamese and Ragdoll cats as their colors and coats are quite similar. However, they are, in fact, different breeds.
Ragdolls are generally relaxed and calm while Siamese loves attention. Moreover, training Ragdoll cats can be challenging due to their independent nature. Siamese cats, on the other hand, are more responsive than Ragdolls.
Differences between Siamese and Ragdoll Cats
The basic differences between a Siamese and a Ragdoll cat are as follows:
- The average length of an adult Siamese cat is 15-20 inches, while that of a Ragdoll is 17-21 inches.
- The average weight of a Siamese cat is 6-14 pounds, while that of a Ragdoll cat is 10-20 pounds.
- Siamese cats usually live between 8-15 years. On the other hand, Ragdoll cats have a slightly longer life, ranging between 12-17 years.
- Siamese cats need to be brushed every once a week to maintain their coat. As Ragdoll cats have considerably more fur, they need to be brushed at least twice a week and given a bath twice a month.
Origin
The history of Siamese cats dates back to 13th century Thailand, making them one of the oldest cat breeds. The Siamese was first brought to the US as a gift for President Rutherford B. Haye’s wife, Lucy. Today, the Siamese cat has become a favorite in the country.
Ragdoll cats, on the other hand, were created in Riverside, California, by a breeder named Ann Baker. She bred a white, longhaired cat in her neighborhood with other cats that she owned or discovered. She carefully selected the appearance, personality, and other criteria to create the Ragdoll breed.
Appearance
Although the Siamese and Ragdoll cats have a similar color pattern, there are marked differences in their appearance. Siamese cats have sleek bodies and glossy coats. They have a creamy coat that turns darker at the extreme points of their bodies, such as face, ears, paws, and tail.
Ragdoll cats, on the other hand, are bigger and furrier than the Siamese. While Siamese cats weigh between 8-10 pounds, Ragdoll cats can weigh up to 12 pounds.
With short and silky hair, Siamese cats can be groomed quite easily. On the contrary, Ragdoll cats are relatively high-maintenance as they have longer fur and shed extensively. Moreover, Ragdoll cats can be found in a larger variety of colors as compared to the Siamese.
Seal point Siamese cats are the most popular type of Siamese. However, they can be found in many other colors as well, such as seal point, chocolate point, blue point, lilac point, cream point, and flame point. As the breed grew in popularity, cat breeders started showing interest in other patterns too, like lynx, tabby, and tortie.
Similarly, seal point was once the most popular type of Ragdoll cat. With time, people started preferring other varieties as well. They also include blue point, lilac point, chocolate point, cream point, and tabby.
Personality
The Siamese and Ragdoll cats have rather distinct personalities. Ragdolls are usually gentle and discreet, while Siamese cats are active and quite extroverted.
Ragdolls get their name from the fact that they tend to literally flop around like a ragdoll when you pick them up. They have a docile nature and quietly enjoy others’ company. They love to snuggle and spend quality time with you.
On the other hand, Siamese cats are attention-seekers. They are vocal and are sure to let you know when they need interaction. If they want something, they will meow at you until you give them what they are looking for.
Although Ragdolls are peaceful creatures, they don’t enjoy the company of dogs. They like being the only pet so that they can receive exclusive attention. On the contrary, the Siamese are playful felines with an energy level similar to dogs, making them fast friends.
Siamese cats love playing around. They have a mischievous streak and tend to grab the attention of everyone in the house. The Siamese are also curious creatures, so make sure they don’t get into cabinets or other spaces you wouldn’t want them in.
Not only are Siamese cats energetic and interactive, but they are also rather sensitive. If you fail to give them the attention they require, they may get depressed or start misbehaving. Although Ragdolls also need attention, they are calmer and more independent than Siamese cats.
Care
Siamese cats need much more attention than Ragdolls. If you stay away from home for long hours during the day and are unable to devote a significant amount of time interacting with your pet, then adopting a Siamese may not be the best idea.
Siamese cats tend to get separation anxiety if they fail to receive enough attention from their owners. To keep your Siamese cat happy, give them a food puzzle toy to keep them busy for a long time.
Nevertheless, remember that toys are not a replacement for the love and care you give them. You may find your feline friend following you around the house and meowing for attention.
Although Ragdoll cats are not as demanding as the Siamese, they still require your time. Spare about 20 minutes every day to play with your cat. These cats have a fondness for balls, and may even learn to play fetch over time. Moreover, as Ragdolls have a thick and fluffy coat, they need to be brushed regularly to get rid of grease dirt, dead hair and knots.
Siamese cats love being the center of attention and may feel jealous if you shift the focus off them or give more attention to other pets. On the other hand, a Ragdoll cat would be satisfied by simply lounging around close to you. They do like physical contact such as snuggles, but would be as happy even if you do other things while petting them.
Training
Both Siamese cats and Ragdoll cats are intelligent and like to learn tricks. Siamese cats have a stubborn streak, but they like challenges as they have an energetic nature.
It is best to adopt a consistent approach when training a Siamese. Do not use harsh approaches or anything that would hurt your pet. Negative reinforcement does not work and would actually prove to be counterproductive.
When your Siamese cat does something right, make sure you reward her with a treat. Make sure you respond immediately so that your cat understands that you were pleased with her behavior.
Siamese are often trained to be show cats due to their ability to learn tricks. They are likely to enjoy the time you spend coaching them as they view it as a signal of affection.
Siamese cats are rather curious and mischievous, so you may find them knocking things off surfaces or scratching your furniture. It is, therefore, important to start training them from a young age to make them learn to behave appropriately.
Ragdoll cats, in contrast, have a lazier temperament and would rather curl up in your lap than being taught tricks. Although they are intelligent, they may not be inclined to obey your commands.
Motivating a Ragdoll cat can be a struggle. When they are not in the mood, even enticing them with treats may not work. However, they do like playing with toys when they are in the mood.
Whether you own a Siamese or a Ragdoll, make sure you always use positive reinforcement while training. This would make the experience delightful for your pets and may even motivate them to learn further.
Which Breed is Right for You?
Both Siamese and Ragdoll cats are popular and attractive pets. Here is a brief description of the traits of the two breeds to help you decide which one to adopt:
Siamese Cat
- These cats are best for families with children, as they love attention. Children can match the playfulness of your pet to keep her happy and satisfied.
- As Siamese cats are social, adopting one is a good idea if you already have other pets in the house. They even tend to get along with dogs.
- As the Siamese are rather energetic, adopt one only if you can spare enough time every day to play with her.
- While Siamese cats are smart, they can also be stubborn at times. Training a Siamese cat takes considerable time and patience.
Ragdoll Cat
- Ragdoll cats are independent by nature. Although they like to cuddle, they don’t need attention all the time. If you have a relatively busy schedule, adopting a Ragdoll cat may be a better option than a Siamese.
- If you have a relaxed personality, adopting a Ragdoll cat is a good idea. Ragdolls like to spend time lounging around and like snuggles once in a while.
- Ragdolls have a thick and long coat, and are, therefore, not ideal for people who are allergic to longhaired cats.
Final Word
Siamese cats and Ragdoll cats are both quality pets. Siamese sport a relatively short and glossy coat as opposed to longhaired and fluffy Ragdolls. The Siamese are quite playful and require lots of love and attention. On the other hand, Ragdolls are best for more relaxed pet owners as they are calmer by nature.
