Hi Everyone. I am considering getting a new cat. The only breeds I am interested in are the Ragdoll and Maine Coon. Does anyone own either of these cat breeds? I'm trying to choose between the two and would like to know more about their personalities besides the generic stuff you find in breed profiles. Also does anyone know which of these cats is the larger breed. I've read about Maine Coons being 20+lbs and the largest cat in the Guinness book of world records is Maine Coon, but the heaviest is a Ragdoll. Also I was considering adopting an older retired cat from a breeder, but I'm kind of scared about getting a full grown cat because maybe it wont bond with me or it could scratch my eyes out because I do something that I didn't know it dislikes because I didn't raise it. Thanks for the help guys.
2006-12-03 06:08:31 · 8 answers · asked by tinkey2562 2 in Pets ➔ Cats
You're looking at this from the wrong viewpoint. You've decided that you want either a Maine Coon or a Ragdoll, both are good choices. Now let the cat choose YOU.
Have you decided on where you're going to get the cat? Visit the place and wander around a while.
The cat that is right for you will let you know in no uncertain terms and you will not be disappointed.
2006-12-03 06:15:01 · answer #1 · answered by Voodoid 7 · 3⤊ 2⤋
Both breeds have wonderful dispositions. The CFA's decriptions provide the typical personality traits. But for the specific individual personality traits, it depends on the cat's genetic heritability and the environment that they grew up in. You could talk to a breeder about it, and don't be afraid to ask many questions since a good and reputable breeder will only be willing to answer them as they do have a lot of passion and knowledge in breeding and nurturing their cats.
Ragdoll:
http://www.cfainc.org/breeds/profiles/ragdoll.html
Maine Coon:
http://www.cfainc.org/breeds/profiles/maine.html
Even within the breed itself, physical characteristics may vary i.e. face is more doll-like or feral. I have a Maine Coon kitten (looks more feral) who's a really sweet and quiet boy; loves cuddling, is goofy (does really silly things like scaring himself), and intelligent (like trying different ways to get into areas off limits to him). Ragdolls actually got their name from going limp when you pick them up, just like a ragdoll! Heard great things from many happy Ragdoll owners that they're a wonderful companion to have.
Usually breeders will have retired cats available, which are usually show cats and retired dads/moms. They usually have wonderful temperaments, but can no longer be involved in breeding. Check with the breeder if the retired cat will be suitable in your home, especially if it's a retiring tom cat. Another good place to look for one would be www.petfinder.com or from Ragdoll/Maine Coon Rescues.
All the best in finding your furry companion! :)
2006-12-03 07:16:56 · answer #2 · answered by blubber 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
the temperment between the two are really close. both are really laid back and easy to love. i've owned both breeds and would recommend either. ragdolls are more cuddly while maine coons,although loving, are independant in nature. the choice is yours and adopting is an honorable thing. given a little time an adult cat will come around and you won't have any of the kitten stresses and messes. i wouldn't worry about getting attacked by either breed. go slow and be patient it'll work.
2006-12-03 06:17:35 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
I have a Maine Coon and she is now 7 years old. She weighs 15 pounds and still in perfect health.Her fur is easy to take care of. My family gives her Iams because it is the only brand that has kept a silky coat and her teeth white.All we have to do is take out shedded fur. We got her when she was eight weeks old free in front of a walmart since the children of the former owner were allergic, and you may want to check your local pound first. She is very sweet to strangers and when you first meet her. After we had her for a month she started being more assertive and wacking at us when she wants something. She gets lonely so she always has to have someone around.She is very smart. We have taught her to talk, and many maine coons are vocal. When I pick her up and tell her its bedtime, she growls and it sounds just like she is saying, "I don't want to go to bed!" I have also taught her to sit and walk backwards. Just yesterday I tried to put a charm that said "Pampered Princess" and she pawed my hand away and meowed "No!"
She likes some people food including parmesan cheese, tony's pizza sauce, baked potato, and roast beef. She, like most maine coons, is very intellegent and can be taught new tricks and very aware of the roles of the family. She has gotten used to us, so she treats me like her big sister. She doesn't hesitate to fuss at me when she doesn't like something I'm doing, but she knows that my mother is the boss and never throws a tantrum at her. (She even let her put the charm on the collar and purred when she did it!)
I would definity recommend having a pet like her because she can really bond to a family. Cat fancy magazine says that they are considered the most dog-like cat breed and I can see why.
2006-12-03 07:57:51 · answer #4 · answered by ff_freya 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Maine coon cats are a lot more affectionate than ragdolls, and Maine coons are a lot better around other animals and children. Maine coons are lap cats most of the time, and they are very affectionate toward their owners. ragdolls are really cute, but Maine coons are friendlier. keep in mind that Maine coons also have a longer life span than ragdolls, ans that they are cute as well.
2006-12-03 06:23:16 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 2⤋
I have a 16 1/2 lb ragdoll he is the most loving of all my cats. I wouldn't get a coon. They can be pretty hyper and sometimes mean. Ragdolls are just big babies. I say go with the ragdoll.
2006-12-03 06:15:12 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 5⤋
i have owned 4 maine coon mix kitties. the one i have now should reach 20-30 pounds--NO FAT--their dispositions are gentle and loving--they are playful and fun. they actually move when you pick them up. ragdolls do not--they turn into literal ragdolls. the jkind of kitty ypou choose should reflect what you like most about kitties.
i love the sturdy coonies, but that is just me. also coonies are smartest
2006-12-03 06:26:49 · answer #7 · answered by z-hag 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
i have a tabby cat they are awesome!!! they are usually striped and have a wierd mark on the forhead but they are really cute between the two you have a like the maine coon
2006-12-11 05:07:59 · answer #8 · answered by Lynn 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋