Maine Coon vs Ragdoll: Check the Differences Here!

Large domestic cat breeds are often difficult for many cat fans to identify. Two popular giants of the feline world can be easily mistaken for each other. This article will help you tell the exact difference between the Maine Coon vs Ragdoll breed of cats so that you can easily identify one the next time you see it. 

The Maine Coon is a sturdy, natural North American breed that has a weatherproof shaggy coat. The Ragdoll is a unique, selectively bred American cat that is characterized by its stunning blue eyes and soft, silky coat. 

Let's look at some of the other distinctions between the two gentle giants.

Maine Coon vs Ragdoll: Key Differences

The primary difference between Maine Coon and Ragdoll cats is their heritage, the color of their eyes, and the texture of their fur. Maine Coons are a hardy, natural feline that can have a variety of eye colors and shaggy double coats. Ragdolls are selectively bred cats that always have intense blue eyes, colorpoint coat patterns, and a unique tendency to go limp when held.

What is a Maine Coon Cat?

The Maine Coon cat is a large, natural, domesticated cat breed native to Maine. These cats were valued by local farmers for their hunting prowess and their ability to survive in extreme winter conditions. In 1976, it was accepted for championship by the Cat Fanciers' Association.

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They have thick, water-repellent fur that keeps them warm in the snow. The Maine Coon was adopted as the official state cat of Maine in 1985. They have large tufted ears like those of a lynx. They have broad, well-furred paws, which make natural snowshoes. Maine Coons are very intelligent, playful, and keep their kitten energy into adulthood.

What is a Ragdoll Cat?

The Ragdoll cat is a very unique large domestic cat breed that originated in California in the 1960s. The breed was started by a breeder named Ann Baker from free-roaming cats of gentle temperament. This breed is recognized by the International Cat Association for its unique colorpoint coat patterns.

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Ragdolls have a thick, soft, single coat that does not mat, due to its lack of an undercoat. Their most distinctive physical characteristics are the large, oval, bright blue eyes. Official show standards require that purebred Ragdolls have blue eyes. 

These cats are called so because they have a unique habit of relaxing completely when human picks them up. They are quiet, calm and do not like to climb high furniture.

Key Differences Between Maine Coon and Ragdoll

The physical traits of Maine Coon and Ragdoll cats are the best way to understand their differences.

1. The Maine Coon has a distinct wedge-shaped head with a clearly visible nose break and strong square muzzle. Ragdolls have a broad wedge-shaped head, gently rounded and a sweet expression. 

2. The ear tufts are another prominent feature of the Maine Coon, and Ragdoll ears are medium sized with rounded tips.

3. Maine Coons are available in virtually all colors and patterns, with brown tabby being the most popular. They have shaggy and uneven fur, which is shorter on the shoulders and longer on the stomach. Ragdolls start out as a white coat, and then develop colorpoint patterns when they grow up. Their fur is even, thick and rabbit fur-like.

4. Ragdolls have a unique trait that they will go limp when picked up, which is not a characteristic of Maine Coon cats. Maine Coons are affectionate but prefer to sit next to you rather than on you.

Maine Coon vs Ragdoll: Best Suited Family Ty

While both breeds are great family pets, they are suited to different families and homes.

Maine Coons do best in an active home where they have the opportunity to climb, explore and solve food puzzles. They have a waterproof coat and love to play with running water, like dripping faucets or water bowls. They follow family members around like dogs and are very loyal.

Ragdolls are ideal pets for homes where they can act as lap cats. These cats are very friendly and are great pets for families with older people or young children. They are not very adept at hunting and prefer to stay as house pets.

What is the main difference between Maine Coon and Ragdoll cats?

The main difference is their eye color and coat pattern. Ragdolls always have intense blue eyes and colorpoint markings. Maine Coons can have various eye colors and appear in almost any coat pattern.

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