Cat breed comparison
Ragdoll vs British Shorthair
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Ragdoll | British Shorthair |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Weight | 12 to 20 lbs | 12 to 20 lbs |
| Life span | 12 to 17 years | 12 to 17 years |
| Lap cat | Yes | Yes |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
| Affection | ||
| Energy | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with dogs | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Vocal | ||
| Needs company | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Health issues |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Background
Where they come from.
The Ragdoll
Developed in Riverside, California, in the 1960s by Ann Baker. It was named for its tendency to go limp when held.
It is large and gentle, and often follows people from room to room.
Health to watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Bladder stones
- Obesity
The British Shorthair
Descended from cats brought to Britain by the Romans, it was one of the first breeds shown at the 1871 Crystal Palace cat show. The blue variety is the best known.
It is calm and undemanding, and usually prefers not to be picked up.
Health to watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Obesity
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Needs company
The Ragdoll needs more company than the British Shorthair.
Affection
The Ragdoll is more affectionate than the British Shorthair.
Energy
The Ragdoll has more energy than the British Shorthair.
Shedding
The British Shorthair sheds more than the Ragdoll.
Health issues
The Ragdoll tends to have more health issues than the British Shorthair.
Which to choose
Ragdoll or British Shorthair?
Choose the Ragdoll if…
- Someone is home most of the day (it needs more company)
- You want a cuddly cat (it is more affectionate)
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You want a cat that sheds less
Choose the British Shorthair if…
- You’re out for part of the day (it is happier alone)
- You’d like a more independent cat (it is more independent)
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
- You want a cat that tends to have fewer health issues
Questions.
Which is easier to train, the Ragdoll or the British Shorthair?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Ragdoll or the British Shorthair?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Ragdoll sheds less than the British Shorthair. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
What health problems do the Ragdoll and British Shorthair have?
The Ragdoll is prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, bladder stones, obesity. The British Shorthair is prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease, obesity. Both share a risk of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and obesity. Ask any breeder for the parents' health test results.
