Snowshoe and Ragdoll cats are two popular breeds with color point coats and more “dog-like” personalities. Breeders mix these two cats to create the perfect combination of looks and temperament, leading to the Snowshoe Ragdoll cat.
Although these two cats have many similarities, it is important to understand what you can expect when bringing home a Snowshoe Ragdoll cat. Learn more about these obedient and loving cats.
Height: | 8–13 inches |
Weight: | 8–20 pounds |
Forever: | 12–18 years |
Colors: | Seal, cream, blue, red, purple, chocolate |
Suitable for: | Families, single owners, hands-on owners |
attitude: | Friendly, sweet, sociable, loving |
The Snowshoe and the Ragdoll cat are named for their unique characteristics. The Snowshoe, a relatively rare breed, is named for the signature white paws that inspired the name “Snowshoe”. The Ragdoll is so named because of its tendency to collapse when handled, like a ragdoll. Regardless of the mixed breed characteristics, these cat breeds have a sweet disposition and relaxed demeanor.
Characteristics of the Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat
Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat Kittens
While Ragdoll cats are becoming more popular and available, Snowshoe cats are relatively rare due to the distinctive white feet that are difficult to reproduce. As a result, mixed breed Snowshoe Ragdolls can be extremely difficult to find. This breed is not recognized by any cat breed association and has no organized breeding.
That said, you may have luck finding Snowshoe Ragdoll kittens from a breeder. Shelters and rescues, especially breed-specific ones, may have Snowshoe Ragdoll kittens as well. If you’re set on finding a Snowshoe and Ragdoll mix, take your time and keep looking until you find the perfect match.
Temperament and Intelligence of the Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat
Both the Snowshoe and the Ragdoll cat are valued for their temperament. These cats are known for being more “dog-like” or “puppy-like” in their behavior, so they are perfect for owners who enjoy a more affectionate and vocal cat. These cats are usually gentle and sweet-headed, but they don’t like being left alone for long periods of time. They don’t have the freedom of some other cat breeds.
Are These Cats Good for Families?
The Snowshoe Ragdoll mix is an ideal cat breed for families. They are friendly and socialize well with children of all ages, but it is important that you monitor interactions to ensure that children are playing appropriately with the cat. If your cat has acquired the floppy quality of the Ragdoll parent, it is easy for children to accidentally hurt them while playing.
Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?
Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are generally compatible with other pets, including dogs and other cats. They are still cats and have a predatory nature, however, so it is best to keep them separate from small animals such as hamsters, guinea pigs, birds, reptiles, and fish, which they may stalk and chase. You should also be careful with dog breeds that have a high prey drive because Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are not as confrontational as other cat breeds.
Things to Know When Owning a Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat:
If you’re considering bringing home a Snowshoe Ragdoll cat, here’s everything you need to know about keeping these cats happy and healthy.
Food and Diet Requirements
Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are larger cats and require a high-quality diet that suits their energy and nutritional needs without adding too much weight. With their soft temperament and size, these cats can be prone to obesity and many health problems, including diabetes or heart disease. Like other cat breeds, the Snowshoe Ragdoll cat should have a diet that is high in protein, moderate in fat, and low in carbohydrates. It is best to feed your cat a quality commercial cat food to ensure that your cat is getting all the nutrition they need to stay healthy.
Exercise
Although Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are more relaxed than other cat breeds, they are still very active. They enjoy time with their owners and love to run, jump, and play. They are also unique in that they enjoy water, especially running water, and may enjoy swimming. It is very important to give your cat plenty of enrichment with cat perches, scratch posts, and playtime.
Training
Snowshoe cats and Ragdoll cats are intelligent cats and eager to please, so they train well. It’s best to use positive-reinforcement training and gentle methods to teach your cat basic obedience and encourage tricks. With proper training, these cats can even be taught to come when called, sit, lie down, roll over, and fetch. Spending time training your cat not only keeps your cat entertained but also strengthens your bond.
Repair
With Ragdoll parentage, your cat may have a long, silky coat that takes some work to maintain. These cats often need to be brushed at least twice a week to prevent excessive shedding and matting, especially around the rear and head. You don’t need to bathe your cat often, but you should trim their nails and brush their teeth regularly.
Health and Fitness
Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are generally healthy but can be susceptible to certain health conditions, especially if one or both of the parents have a genetic health condition. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease, eye conditions, and feline lower urinary tract disease may be common. These cats can be prone to skin conditions, especially skin allergies.
Minor Condition
- Allergies
- Skin conditions
- Feline lower urinary tract disease
Serious Condition
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Some cancers
- Feline leukemia
- Eye conditions
Men vs Women
Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are individuals, so choosing between a male and a female depends on your individual preferences. Many of the behavioral issues that occur in the sexes are related to hormones, such as vocalization, roaming, and fighting, so you can reduce or prevent them by spaying or neutering. In addition, spaying or neutering your cat prevents reproductive health conditions such as certain cancers or infections, as well as eliminating the risk of accidental littering that contributes to excess population.
3 Little-Known Facts About the Snowshoe Ragdoll Cat
1. Snowshoe Was Originally Called Silver Laces
Snowshoe cats were originally bred in Philadelphia by a Siamese breeder whose cats had three kittens with white paws. He then began a breeding program to produce “Silver Laces”, the nickname for this breed trait.
2. Snowshoe and Ragdoll Cats are rare
Despite the 45 years, Snowshoe cats are rare due to the difficulty of producing the correct coat markings. Ragdoll cats are popular and not that rare, but they are difficult to breed for the specific traits they are known for. As a result, the Snowshoe Ragdoll mix is extremely rare.
3. Snowshoe and Ragdoll Cats Love Water
It’s well known that cats generally don’t like water (with a few exceptions), but the Snowshoe and Ragdoll breeds are two that love it. Ragdolls are known to be intrigued by the sound of running water, to the point of sneaking up on owners while in the shower or running to the sink, and Snowshoe cats love to play in running water and can even swim.
Final Thoughts
Snowshoe Ragdoll cats are a unique mix of two popular and beautiful cat breeds. They share sharp coats, docile personalities, and pleasant temperaments, making them ideal for cat owners of all types. However, these cats are rare and hard to find and can be prone to health problems from breeding. Do your due diligence if you are trying to find a Snowshoe Ragdoll to bring home.
Featured Image Credit: EVasilieva, Shutterstock