In this guide we’ll explore everything you need to know about the black ragdoll cat, including their features, personality and the different variations. Plus, you’ll see loads of photos of black ragdoll cats throughout!
Can You Get Black Ragdoll Cats?
Before we get into the details let’s answer the most important question, can ragdoll cats be black? Well, if you are interested in a black ragdoll you’ll be pleased to hear the answer is yes, black ragdoll cats do exist. However black ragdoll cats are very rare.
Also it’s important to say that the black ragdoll cat isn’t technically recognized as a purebred ragdoll by the two official cat associations – The International Cat Association and the Cat Fanciers’ Association.
Interestingly though, if we look back to the history of ragdoll cats, Ann Baker, who brought ragdolls into our lives (thank you Ann Baker!), was breeding with a persian-looking, long haired black cat called “Blackie”. So, if you ask me I think black ragdoll cats certainly have a place in the ragdoll world!
Whether they’re officially recognized or not, personally I don’t think you should let that put you off. As long as you find a reputable breeder, you’re good to go.
As you’ll discover, black ragdolls have both similarities and differences from some of the other more common types of ragdoll cat, which we’ll explore below.
Why Aren’t Black Ragdoll Cats Recognized as ‘Purebred’ Ragdolls?
Black ragdoll cats don’t fit within the traditional Ragdoll Breed Standards because of:
Their coloring. The six ‘point colors’ recognized by the CFA and TICA are seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, and cream. Therefore a black ragdoll cat colors aren’t considered to be purebred.
Their eye color. A black ragdoll cat typically has yellow or green eyes, instead of the recognized blue eye color of ragdoll cats.
Take a look at the list of Ragdoll Breed Standards set out by the Cat Fanciers’ Association for a complete breakdown.
All Black Ragdoll Cat Features
Although some breeders or enthusiasts within the ragdoll community would say no if you asked them can ragdoll cats be black, black ragdolls still have a lot of the usual features and characteristics you’d expect from this wonderfully soppy breed!
All black ragdolls tend to have yellow or green colored eyes, with all the typical ragdoll characteristics. Some of the most common black ragdoll cat features include:
-
Green or yellow eyes
-
All black fur (hence the name!)
-
Long, soft and fluffy fur
-
A large and often bushy tail
-
Medium to large in adult size (10-20 pounds on average)
-
A friendly, laid-back, and affectionate nature
So, in our opinion if you’re an average ragdoll cat lover who’s more interested in owning a ragdoll cat or cats* as loving and friendly household pets then a black ragdoll cat might be a good option for you! If you can find a black ragdoll cat for sale or adoption, that is…
*(Once you bring one ragdoll cat home you won’t be able to stop, trust us! We’ve got two already, Mr Fudge and Teddy and I’m already dreaming of a third!)
Are Black Ragdoll Cats Rare?
Yes, black ragdoll cats are very rare. The most common type of ragdoll cat is the seal point ragdoll, a variety of chocolate ragdoll cat, like our male ragdoll Mr.Fudge.
Therefore when you’re considering buying or adopting a black ragdoll cat it’s important to do your research when choosing a breeder.
Not only do you want to be sure your new furry family member is definitely a ragdoll, you’ll want to make sure they have been well looked after with no health concerns. Also, it’s important to feel confident that a ragdoll cat is the right cat breed for you and your lifestyle.
We’ve listed out some of the most important things to consider when searching for a black ragdoll cat or kitten.
Buying a Black Ragdoll Cat – Key Considerations
- Only contact a registered breeder or cat shelter. Check the breeder’s website and social media accounts for reviews and testimonials from previous owners. You need to make sure they are a registered and reputable breeder.
- Request photos before visiting. Ask to see multiple photos or videos of the black ragdoll cat or kitten you’re planning to buy or adopt. Ideally, you want to see a photo or video of the black ragdoll cat or kitten’s parents too.
- Ask Questions. No question is a stupid question when deciding whether to buy or adopt a ragdoll cat or kitten. It’s better to be thorough with your research to make sure a black ragdoll cat will suit your lifestyle and situation.
- Ragdoll Paperwork. What paperwork can you expect to receive? Will you receive a certificate of authenticity from the breeder? As we mentioned earlier, black ragdoll cats aren’t officially recognized by TICA or the CFA. However, a reputable breeder will still provide you with official paperwork. If you are looking for a black ragdoll as a family pet you might not feel as concerned about paperwork. Still, it’s important to understand where your ragdoll kitten or cat has come from, including the breeder’s history.
- Health & Wellbeing. Ask for full information of the black ragdoll cat or kitten’s health. Have they been tested for common ragdoll health conditions, which are often hereditary? Will your black ragdoll cat have had their first vaccinations? When is their date of birth? Are there any other health concerns you should know about before you take them on?
Can Black Ragdoll Cats Have Blue Eyes?
Finding a black ragdoll cat with blue eyes is highly unlikely. Black ragdoll cats typically have yellow or green eyes. In fact, we haven’t found a single example of a black ragdoll cat blue eyes during our research.
Black Ragdoll Cat Personality
Typically, a black ragdoll cat’s personality will be the same as other types of ragdoll. For example, if you bring a black ragdoll kitten or cat home you can expect them to be:
- Affectionate
- Loving
- Friendly
- Attention-seeking
- Playful
- Mischievous
- Floppy
- Chilled out
- Family-friendly
- Better suited to being an indoor ca
Pictures of Black Ragdoll Cats
When you search for images of black ragdoll cats you might find it hard to find hundreds of photos, like you would other with other types of ragdoll cats.
It can also be hard to find photos of real black ragdoll cats, rather than other long-haired black cats.
Here’s some photos of black ragdoll cats we’ve found for you!
Other Types of Black Ragdoll Cat
Black and White Ragdoll Cat
Much like an all black ragdoll, a ragdoll cat that’s black and white isn’t recognized as a traditional, purebred ragdoll.
However, there are still reputable and registered ragdoll breeders who breed black and white ragdolls.
Similarly to black ragdoll cats, a black and white ragdoll is also rarer than your average ragdoll cat. So again, if you’re looking for a black and white ragdoll kitten or cat you’ll need to do thorough research.
Black and white ragdoll cats also have yellow or green eyes, much like all black ragdolls.
Tuxedo Ragdoll Cat
Some ragdoll cats with black and white fur are also known as a tuxedo black and white ragdoll cat, named after their gorgeous markings! They are called a tuxedo ragdoll cat because their fur looks like they’re wearing a tuxedo jacket (how cute is that?!).
Typically a tuxedo ragdoll will have a black back with white under their chin and on their belly. A black and white tuxedo ragdoll may also have similar point style markings to other ragdoll cats, for example areas of white on their paws and around their faces.
As their name suggests, ragamuffin cats are a cross-breed ragdoll cat. Ragamuffin ragdolls are typically a cross between a ragdoll and other long-haired cat breeds, such as a Persian or Himalayan.
Ragamuffin vs Ragdoll:
Ragamuffin black ragdoll cats differ from ragdoll cats, and the main differences between a ragamuffin vs ragdoll relate to their color and markings.
- Coat Colors. Ragamuffin cats have a much wider range of coat colors, depending on the type of cat a ragdoll has been bred with.
- Coat Patters & Markings. Ragamuffin cats have a much wider range of coat markings such as solid or tabby markings. Ragdolls only have a couple of recognized, including lynx and tortie.
- Eye Color. Ragamuffin ragdolls can have any eye color and still be recognized as a ragamuffin, such as yellow or green. Only blue eyes are technically recognized by the CFA and TICA for the ragdoll cat breed. However, you’ll still see ragdoll cats with green or yellow eyes (like a black ragdoll cat!)
Top 10 Black Ragdoll Cat Names
As we’ve explored, black ragdoll cats are completely adorable! So of course they deserve a cute name to match.
Here’s 10 names we absolutely love for a black ragdoll cat:
- Midnight
- Moonbeam
- Emerald (perfect for a black ragdoll cat with green eyes)
- Amber (a great name for a black ragdoll cat with yellow eyes)
- Salem
- Panther
- Raven
- Shadow
- Stormy
- Oreo (cute for a black and white ragdoll cat)
4 Comments