🐱 Cat · long coat

Coat care: Ragdoll

Semi-long, soft, silky coat with plenty of guard hairs and minimal woolly undercoat.

The Ragdoll has a semi-long, soft, silky coat with an abundance of guard hairs and very little woolly undercoat. Because of this, the coat tangles and sheds less than that of many other longhaired cats, but it is not maintenance-free: if left unattended, it can mat. Combing with a metal comb once or twice a week is usually enough, and more often during seasonal shedding. Adult cats develop a ruff around the neck and fluffy “britches” on the hind legs.

🛁 Bathing

Rarely – only when needed. If you do bathe, use a cat shampoo diluted according to the label, rinse well and dry completely while combing the coat.

🪮 Brushing

Once or twice a week with a metal comb, and more often during shedding. Comb down to the skin, especially the ruff, under the armpits and on the hind legs, to catch tangles early.

🍂 Shedding and coat change

Sheds mainly when the seasons change; more frequent combing is needed then, because the coat tangles more easily.

Tips for home

  • Trim the nails regularly.
  • Check the ears and eyes when combing and clean away visible dirt with a damp cloth.
  • Get your kitten used to combing early.
  • Do not skip combing during shedding – that is when the coat mats most easily.

Shampoos and conditioners for Ragdoll

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Frequently asked questions

How often should I comb a Ragdoll?

The Ragdoll usually needs combing with a metal comb once or twice a week. This removes loose hair and catches tangles early, especially on the ruff, under the armpits and on the hind legs. When the seasons change and the cat sheds more, comb more often. Get your kitten used to combing from an early age.

Does a Ragdoll's coat mat?

The Ragdoll's coat has plenty of guard hairs and very little woolly undercoat, so it mats less than that of many other longhaired cats. That does not mean it needs no care – if left unattended, especially during shedding, it can mat. Regular combing once or twice a week is usually enough.

Does a Ragdoll need bathing?

The Ragdoll does not need regular bathing – usually only when necessary, if the cat gets dirty. When you bathe, use a cat shampoo diluted according to the label, rinse thoroughly and dry the coat completely while combing it.

Care for other breeds

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This advice is general. For skin or ear problems, consult a vet.