Which Cat Breed Is Right For Me? Maine Coon Or Ragdoll??

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TheresaHamms

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Oct 24, 2022
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Hello! so I don't know what to fully expect. Sorry in advanced if this is absurdly long or if I've posted it under the wrong tab. I'm just looking for some general advice and answers to a few questions. I imagine you guys have tons of knowledge and I'd love to learn! Sooo, I've decided to get a cat! While I have volunteered in shelters my whole life (I'm 22) and have even worked as a cat groomer, I've never owned a cat. I mean, I do own two Shiba Inu's and they're basically cats LOL. But since this is my first feline friend, I would like to buy an older kitten/cat from a reputable cattery- a retired breeder or show cat, perhaps. Though I am not opposed to adopting at all, I'm a huge dog lover (I'm a dog trainer) and have always gotten puppies from private breeders and it's just the route I'm most comfortable taking. After doing some research, I still can't decide the Maine Coon or a Ragdoll. I also had liked the Persian/Himalayan, Birman or a Norwegian Forest Cat.. but those two seem the most favorable for what I'm looking for. Now for my questions!

  • Which one would you say is more laid back, cuddly, and dog like/people oriented? Not completely sedentary, but not so energetic/off the wall and getting into trouble. Also, while I want a sweet cat- I don't want one that's dependent to the point that it's needy and in your face constantly/can't be left alone
  • Which sheds less and requires less grooming on a weekly basis? I'm cool with doing a brushing two-three times a week, but every day seems excessive for me personally
  • Which breed is easier to find/less expensive to buy from a reputable cattery?
  • Which is healthier/is less prone to health issues down the line?
  • Which eats less? Kind of a silly question, but both are very big and like with a large dog breed, they probably eat a lot and that can add up in price!
  • Which is typically better with dogs/other animals? I know that's more-so dependent on the individual cat, but figured I'd ask
 
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TheresaHamms said:
Hello! so I don't know what to fully expect. Sorry in advanced if this is absurdly long or if I've posted it under the wrong tab. I'm just looking for some general advice and answers to a few questions. I imagine you guys have tons of knowledge and I'd love to learn! Sooo, I've decided to get a cat! While I have volunteered in shelters my whole life (I'm 22) and have even worked as a cat groomer, I've never owned a cat. I mean, I do own two Shiba Inu's and they're basically cats LOL. But since this is my first feline friend, I would like to buy an older kitten/cat from a reputable cattery- a retired breeder or show cat, perhaps. Though I am not opposed to adopting at all, I'm a huge dog lover (I'm a dog trainer) and have always gotten puppies from private breeders and it's just the route I'm most comfortable taking. After doing some research, I still can't decide the Maine Coon or a Ragdoll. I also had liked the Persian/Himalayan, Birman or a Norwegian Forest Cat.. but those two seem the most favorable for what I'm looking for. Now for my questions!

  • Which one would you say is more laid back, cuddly, and dog like/people oriented? Not completely sedentary, but not so energetic/off the wall and getting into trouble. Also, while I want a sweet cat- I don't want one that's dependent to the point that it's needy and in your face constantly/can't be left alone
  • Which sheds less and requires less grooming on a weekly basis bobcat vs maine coon? I'm cool with doing a brushing two-three times a week, but every day seems excessive for me personally
  • Which breed is easier to find/less expensive to buy from a reputable cattery?
  • Which is healthier/is less prone to health issues down the line?
  • Which eats less? Kind of a silly question, but both are very big and like with a large dog breed, they probably eat a lot and that can add up in price!
  • Which is typically better with dogs/other animals? I know that's more-so dependent on the individual cat, but figured I'd ask
Click to expand...
So, is there one you think I would be a better fit for? I'd love to hear any thoughts. Thank you! :)
 
I’d think you’d get a much better answer on a cat specific forum rather than on a horse riding forum.
Your questions appear that you are after a relatively low maintenance low cost cat, so I’d be looking at a smaller size short coated breed rather than those you mention.
 
british short hairs have nice characters and are easy. avoid anything oriental, russian blues etc. Persians are very high maintenance if they do not like being combed they are a shave the fur off job, ditto birman. Persians mat terribly so i would stick to a short hair breed and personally a non breed cat can be more resilient than a pedigree. Cats and dogs are a lottery, one of my stnadard poodles has his own cat, the other is aghast at the idea.
 
Choosing between Maine Coon and Ragdoll cats is tough—they both have such unique personalities. When I was deciding on my first cat, I had similar questions. My friend recommended looking into CatAdorn for some helpful tips and unique products—they've got everything from cozy beds to grooming tools that could be perfect for your new furry friend. As for breed traits, Maine Coons are often laid-back and dog-like, while Ragdolls are super cuddly and gentle. Both shed, but with regular grooming (like you mentioned), it's manageable.
 
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Ragdolls might be easier to find and slightly less expensive. Both breeds are relatively healthy, but Maine Coons can be prone to hip dysplasia and heart issues, while Ragdolls might face urinary problems.

When it comes to eating, both breeds are pretty big, so they'll eat more than smaller cats. But it shouldn't be too different from what you're used to with large dogs.

For getting along with dogs, both breeds can adapt well, especially if introduced properly. Given your dog training experience, I'm sure you'll handle the introduction smoothly.

One thing that might interest you – I once looked into sphynx kittens for sale and found the breed fascinating. Their unique appearance and low-maintenance grooming could be an alternative if you ever want to explore different breeds.
 
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Ziggle 2 (2).jpg

All of ours are rescues, the daft Ziggle who was supposed to be a British Blue but more in temperament as a Russian blue. We have had two persians from rescues.DSC01977 (2).jpg
 
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