What is the difference between a Oriental Short Hair and a Ragdoll?

The Oriental Short Hair is 5–10 lbs sized while the Ragdoll is 10–20 lbs sized. They differ in size (5–10 lbs vs 10–20 lbs), lifespan (12–15 years vs 12–17 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Oriental Short Hair or Ragdoll?

Oriental Short Hair is generally good with kids. Ragdoll is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Oriental Short Hair or Ragdoll?

The Oriental Short Hair has a lifespan of 12–15 years while the Ragdoll has a lifespan of 12–17 years.

Oriental Short Hair vs Ragdoll — Breed Comparison

About the Oriental Short Hair

The Oriental Shorthair emerged in the 1950s and 1960s when British breeders crossed Siamese cats with Russian Blues, British Shorthairs, and Abyssinians to create a Siamese-type cat in a rainbow of non-pointed colors. Sleek and angular at 6–12 pounds, this breed has a wedge-shaped head, strikingly large ears, vivid green eyes (or blue in white coats), and a short, fine, glossy coat in over 300 color-and-pattern combinations — more than any other cat breed.

Temperament & Personality

Oriental Shorthairs are among the most extroverted and opinionated cats in existence — they will tell you exactly what they think in a loud, distinctive voice. Fiercely loyal, they bond tightly to their humans and follow them everywhere, including into the shower. They are athletic, curious, and endlessly entertaining, making them ideal for active households with children and other social pets.

Pros

Incredible coat variety — virtually every color and pattern available
Minimal grooming needs thanks to the short, close-lying coat
Highly intelligent and trainable — enjoys puzzle feeders and learning tricks
Deeply loyal and affectionate with family members

Cons

One of the most vocal cat breeds — constant meowing can be overwhelming
Severe separation anxiety when left alone — does best with a companion cat
Prone to dental issues, heart disease, and amyloidosis
Demands constant attention and can become destructive if under-stimulated

Think you can keep up with this talkative, spirited feline? Search for Oriental Shorthair cats on Puplister and meet your new best friend.

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.

Oriental Short Hair vs Ragdoll