Grooming a Ragdoll without the fuss

A Ragdoll's soft, flowing coat is one of the first things people fall in love with, and one of the first things they worry about. The good news is that Ragdolls are surprisingly easy to care for. Their silky, semi-long fur has much less dense undercoat than many longhaired breeds, so it tangles less.

A simple weekly routine

For most Ragdolls, a thorough brush once or twice a week keeps the coat in great condition. You need just two tools:

• A wide-toothed metal comb to gently work through the coat and find any small knots.
• A soft slicker brush to lift loose fur and finish.

Brush in the direction the fur grows, and be gentle around the tummy and back legs, which are sensitive areas for many cats.

Spots to watch

Tangles most often form where fur rubs, so check these places each time you groom:

• behind the ears,
• under the front legs,
• the "britches" on the back of the hind legs, and
• under the collar, if your cat wears one.

If you find a small knot, hold the fur close to the skin and tease it apart with your fingers or the comb. Never cut a mat out with scissors, because it is very easy to nick the skin. Your vet or a cat groomer can help with anything stubborn.

Shedding seasons

Ragdolls shed more in spring as they lose their thicker winter coat. During this time, brushing a little more often keeps loose fur off your furniture and reduces hairballs.

Baths, nails and teeth

Most Ragdolls rarely need a bath. A healthy indoor cat keeps themselves clean. Trim the claws every two to three weeks and offer a scratching post so they have somewhere to file them. Regular tooth brushing with a cat toothpaste, or dental treats approved by your vet, helps keep gums healthy.

Start young

The easiest cats to groom are the ones who learned as kittens. We gently brush and handle our kittens from an early age, so grooming time feels normal. Keep sessions short and rewarding at first, and finish with a treat or a game.

Please never shave a Ragdoll unless your vet recommends it for a medical reason. Their coat helps regulate temperature and protects the skin.

Have a question about caring for your Ragdoll? Send us a message.