So, you’ve got yourself a Ragdoll cat, congrats! These big, blue-eyed beauties are basically the supermodels of the feline world, with their silky coats, fluffy tails, and laid-back attitudes. But even though Ragdolls look effortlessly gorgeous, keeping that coat in top shape does require some effort (sorry, no self-cleaning cats just yet).
If you’re wondering how to keep your Ragdoll looking like the royalty they clearly believe they are, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into brushing, bathing, and all the little tricks that make grooming your Ragdoll a breeze.
Do Ragdolls Even Need Grooming?
Short answer: Yes.
Long answer: Absolutely, unless you enjoy finding cat hair on literally everything you own.
Ragdolls may not have the thick undercoat that some long-haired breeds do, but that silky fur still needs maintenance to prevent knots, reduce shedding, and keep your cat looking fabulous. Plus, regular grooming keeps their skin healthy and minimizes hairballs (because no one likes stepping on one at 3 AM).
How Often Should You Groom a Ragdoll?
Let’s not overcomplicate things:
- Brushing – 3-4 times a week
- Bathing – Once every 1-2 months (or when they start smelling a little… off)
- Nail trimming – Every 3-4 weeks (unless you enjoy surprise claw attacks)
- Ear & eye cleaning – Weekly check-ups
If you stick to this routine, your Ragdoll will stay soft, clean, and looking like they belong on a cat food commercial.
Brushing Your Ragdoll: Keep That Fur Fluffy, Not Tangled
Ragdolls are pretty chill when it comes to brushing, and some even enjoy it (shocking, I know). But using the right tools is key.
Best Brushes for a Ragdoll
- Wide-tooth stainless steel comb – Perfect for getting through that long, silky fur.
- Slicker brush – Great for removing loose hair and keeping things smooth.
- Deshedding tool – A must-have during shedding season unless you want fur tumbleweeds rolling across your floors.
How to Brush Your Ragdoll
- Start slow – Let them sniff the brush first, maybe give them a few pets to ease them in.
- Use gentle strokes – No yanking! If you hit a knot, work through it carefully with a comb.
- Focus on problem areas – Behind the ears, under the arms, and around the tail tend to mat easily.
- Make it enjoyable – Treats, praise, and belly rubs (if they allow it) will make grooming something they almost look forward to.
Ragdolls shed year-round, but especially in spring and fall. So, if you suddenly find yourself covered in cat hair, up the brushing routine.
Dealing With Shedding
Ragdolls may not shed as much as a Maine Coon, but trust me, they still shed. You’ll notice fur on your furniture, clothes, and sometimes even in your coffee.
Ragdoll Shedding Tips
- Brush more often during peak shedding seasons.
- Feed them a high-quality diet with omega-3s for a healthier coat.
- Use a deshedding tool once a week.
- Keep a lint roller in every room of your house (seriously, just accept it).
No, you can’t stop the shedding completely, but you can control it, and save your vacuum some grief.
Bathing a Ragdoll: Do They Need It?
Unlike dogs, cats don’t need regular baths (and most of them would like to keep it that way). But every once in a while, your Ragdoll might get into something gross, or their fur might start feeling a little greasy.
If you must bathe your cat, here’s how to do it without ending up soaked and scratched:
How to Bathe a Ragdoll
- Use a cat-friendly shampoo, human products are too harsh.
- Fill the sink or tub with a few inches of warm water (not too deep, we’re not swimming).
- Wet their coat gently, avoid the face!
- Lather quickly and rinse thoroughly.
- Dry them off with a towel and low-heat hairdryer (if they tolerate it).
If your Ragdoll absolutely hates water, you can use waterless cat shampoo instead.
Trimming Ragdoll Claws
Ragdolls might be sweet, but their claws can do some serious damage if left unchecked. I recommend trimming them every 3-4 weeks to prevent accidental scratches (and shredded furniture), though, if I’m being honest, I tend to only do it every 2-3 months myself!
Ragdoll Trimming Tips
- Use cat nail clippers, not human ones.
- Hold their paw gently and press to extend the claws.
- Clip just the sharp tip, avoiding the pink quick.
- If they’re squirmy, try doing one paw at a time and rewarding with treats.
Trimming their nails regularly makes cuddle time much safer for you.
Cleaning Their Ears & Eyes
Ragdolls don’t have major ear issues, but a quick weekly check is a good idea.
- Wipe away dirt or wax with a soft cotton pad.
- Never use cotton swabs, you don’t want to go too deep!
As for their eyes, Ragdolls sometimes get tear stains, so a damp cloth can help keep them clean.
Do Ragdolls Need Haircuts?
Nope! Ragdolls don’t need full-body trims, but some owners opt for a sanitary trim around the rear to prevent, well… messes.
Shaving a Ragdoll is not recommended unless necessary for medical reasons, so let that fur flow!
Final Grooming Tips for Ragdoll Owners
- Start grooming early so your cat gets used to it.
- Make it a bonding experience, gentle pets and treats go a long way.
- Stay consistent, a regular schedule prevents mats and excessive shedding.
Ragdolls love attention, so they’ll probably enjoy the extra fuss. Keep it fun, keep it relaxed, and embrace the fluff!
Conclusion: Groom Your Ragdoll to Keep Them Looking (and Feeling) Fabulous
Grooming a Ragdoll isn’t hard, as long as you stay on top of it. With regular brushing, the occasional bath, and some basic nail and ear care, your fluffy feline will stay soft, healthy, and Instagram-ready at all times.
So grab that brush, bribe them with treats, and turn grooming into a little spa day for your kitty. They might not say it, but they’ll definitely appreciate it (probably).
