Ragdoll vs Selkirk Rex

Which cat breed is right for you?

Ragdoll

Size
10–20 lbs
Lifespan
12–17 years
Exercise
Low
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Gentle Calm Affectionate Docile

Selkirk Rex

Size
6–16 lbs
Lifespan
15–20 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Patient Loving Playful Social

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.

About the Selkirk Rex

The Selkirk Rex originated in Montana in 1987 from a single curly-coated kitten found in a shelter litter and later crossed with a Persian. Unlike the Cornish Rex and Devon Rex, the Selkirk Rex has a full, plush coat of loose, tumbling curls — including curly whiskers. This is a medium-to-large cat weighing 6–16 pounds with a round head, full cheeks, and a sturdy, muscular build. They come in both longhair and shorthair varieties, in every color and pattern, with the longhair displaying the most dramatic ringlets.

Temperament & Personality

Selkirk Rex cats are patient, laid-back companions with a goofy, playful streak that persists into adulthood. They enjoy being held and cuddled but are not overly demanding of attention — content to amuse themselves when their humans are busy. Their tolerant nature makes them wonderful with children and other pets.

Pros

  • Unique, teddy bear-like curly coat that is irresistibly soft to the touch
  • Patient and tolerant — excellent choice for families with young children
  • Easygoing and adaptable to various living situations
  • Less intense grooming than expected — curls should not be over-brushed

Cons

  • Curly coat can trap oils, requiring regular bathing to keep skin and fur healthy
  • Prone to polycystic kidney disease and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy from Persian heritage
  • Shedding can be significant — curly fur catches on furniture and clothing
  • Over-brushing straightens the curls, requiring a delicate grooming approach

Can't resist those adorable curls? Browse Selkirk Rex cats available on Puplister and find your curly-coated companion.

Available for Adoption

3

Ragdolls

Browse

0

Selkirk Rexes

Related Articles

All Articles →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Ragdoll and a Selkirk Rex?
The Ragdoll is 10–20 lbs sized while the Selkirk Rex is 6–16 lbs sized. They differ in size (10–20 lbs vs 6–16 lbs), lifespan (12–17 years vs 15–20 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Ragdoll or Selkirk Rex?
Ragdoll is generally good with kids. Selkirk Rex is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Ragdoll or Selkirk Rex?
The Ragdoll has a lifespan of 12–17 years while the Selkirk Rex has a lifespan of 15–20 years.

Find Your Perfect Pet

Browse thousands of adoptable pets from shelters near you.

Browse Cats