Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.
🐈 Ragdoll
🐈 Snowshoe
Group
Long Hair
Short Hair
Origin
United States (1960s)
United States
Weight
4.5–10 kg
3.5–5.5 kg
Height
23–28 cm
20–25 cm
Lifespan
12–17 years
14–19 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK
🐈 Ragdoll
Temperament
Affectionate, calm, gentle, sociable. Ragdolls are famously good with children, other cats and dogs. They tend to be lap cats and dislike being alone for long periods.
Exercise
Moderate play needs. Two play sessions a day. Most adults are comfortable being indoor-only and benefit from cat trees, food puzzles and harness walks.
Grooming
Semi-long, silky coat that mats less than Persians. Brush 2–3× weekly. Bathe occasionally if needed.
Health
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM — DNA test essential). Polycystic kidney disease. Bladder stones. FIP (kittens). Hip dysplasia is occasionally documented.
