What is the difference between a British Longhair and a Ragdoll?

The British Longhair is 8–16 lbs sized while the Ragdoll is 10–20 lbs sized. They differ in size (8–16 lbs vs 10–20 lbs), lifespan (12–14 years vs 12–17 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, British Longhair or Ragdoll?

British Longhair is generally good with kids. Ragdoll is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, British Longhair or Ragdoll?

The British Longhair has a lifespan of 12–14 years while the Ragdoll has a lifespan of 12–17 years.

British Longhair vs Ragdoll — Breed Comparison

About the British Longhair

The British Longhair is the semi-longhaired variant of the British Shorthair, carrying the recessive longhair gene that has been present in the breed since Persian crosses were used after World War II. This medium-to-large breed weighs 8–18 pounds and has the same round, sturdy build as its shorthaired cousin. Their plush, dense coat comes in a wide array of colors and patterns — including the classic "British Blue" — and features a luxurious ruff around the neck and a full, plumed tail.

Temperament & Personality

British Longhairs are calm, dignified cats that enjoy quiet companionship without being overly demanding. They are tolerant and patient with children, coexist peacefully with other pets, and are content to observe household activities from a comfortable perch. Their relaxed, independent nature makes them ideal for owners who appreciate a cat that is affectionate but not clingy.

Pros

Calm, easygoing temperament — excellent for laid-back households
Tolerant of children and other animals without being easily stressed
Beautiful plush coat with a luxurious, teddy-bear appearance
Independent enough to handle time alone without developing anxiety

Cons

Dense coat requires brushing 2–3 times per week to prevent matting
Prone to obesity and polycystic kidney disease (PKD) from Persian ancestry
Heavy shedding — especially during seasonal coat changes
Can be aloof and may not enjoy being picked up or held

Discover the gentle elegance of the British Longhair — explore adoptable cats waiting for loving homes on Puplister.

About the Ragdoll

The Ragdoll was developed in the 1960s in Riverside, California, by breeder Ann Baker, who selected for docile, floppy cats that go limp when held — hence the name. One of the largest domestic cat breeds, Ragdolls weigh 10–20 pounds (males often exceeding 15 pounds) and have striking blue eyes, a semi-long silky coat, and a colorpoint pattern with a lighter body and darker extremities. They come in six main colors — seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, and cream — with four patterns: colorpoint, mitted, bicolor, and lynx.

Temperament & Personality

Ragdolls are famously gentle, relaxed cats that often follow their owners from room to room like loyal dogs. They tend to greet you at the door and flop at your feet, earning their reputation as "floor cats" and "puppy cats." Exceptionally tolerant and patient, they are among the best breeds for families with children and get along beautifully with dogs and other cats.

Pros

Extremely gentle and tolerant — ideal for households with young children
Silky coat lacks a dense undercoat, reducing matting and shedding compared to other longhairs
Calm, laid-back energy level — content with moderate play and lots of cuddling
Dog-like devotion — follows owners, greets guests, and can learn simple tricks

Cons

Genetic predisposition to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) — DNA testing recommended
Trusting and non-aggressive to a fault — must be kept strictly indoors
Large size means higher food costs and need for oversized litter boxes
Can develop bladder stones and urinary tract issues

If a big, blue-eyed lap cat sounds like your dream companion, search for Ragdoll cats available for adoption on Puplister.

British Longhair vs Ragdoll