Balinese vs Ragdoll Cats: Identifying the Differences

Cats are one of the most common household fluffy companions. And since there are so many breeds around, you may get confused as some look strikingly similar. Here, let us explore Balinese vs ragdoll cats.

Aside from their more or less similar cats’ size, both are affectionate pets perfect for domestication. However, Balinese felines are more intelligent, playful, and vocal. In comparison, ragdolls are more affectionate and fluffy-looking.

Check out the comparison table below to quickly see the other major differences between ragdolls vs Balinese cats.

What Characteristics Distinguish a Balinese Cat From a Ragdoll?

The low-key affection and simple gestures of cats make them such amazing pals to have at home. One of the most interesting breeds you might want to bring home is the Balinese or ragdoll cat.

Here are some key characteristics that set these two species apart.

1. Size

Balinese cats usually grow to 8 to 11 inches in height, weighing 8 to 12 pounds. They have distinct long hair and slender but muscular bodies. If you love petting cats, you will notice that Balinese cats’ fur is soft and silky.

In comparison, ragdolls are a lot heavier and fluffier due to their longer hair. They can weigh around 10-20 pounds and stand 9 to 11 inches tall.

2. Visuals

Coats

The usual color patterns for Balinese cats are cream-colored fur with the colors concentrated at the tips of their tails, legs, and ears. Aside from the usual black or gray coat, you can sometimes see them in orange or brown.

Similarly, ragdolls tend to have white or cream-colored fur, although it’s not uncommon to see those with flame, chocolate, or lilac shades. As a pointed breed, the fur around their ears, tails, and legs is noticeably darker.

Eyes

Both Balinese and ragdoll breeds have blue, almond-shaped eyes. However, the former may sometimes have sapphire or violet eyes. In a similar vein, you may sometimes come across ragdoll kittens with yellow or green eyes.

3. Personality and Temperament

Balinese

The personality of Balinese felines makes them great for people who want to have vocal and playful cats. They love to talk to their owners, so you should be prepared to hear their talkative meows even at night.

Also, note that they may invade your personal space! The Balinese enjoy being in the company of other pets and their humans.

Even Balinese kittens are active. You need to have some toys or scratching posts at your homes to keep them entertained. These toys ensure they have the playtime and exercise necessary to keep them healthy.

Ragdoll

On the other hand, the fluffy ragdolls are more docile. They also have their own sense of curiosity, but they are less active and verbal than the Balinese. As such, this breed is more suitable for people who adore calm and quiet pets.

Aside from loving cuddles, ragdolls can get on well with children and other family pets. Their sociable and affectionate nature makes them perfect as emotional support animals.

Although playful, this breed isn’t particularly active, so they don’t have any high demands in terms of exercise. That said, keeping them active is still important so they don’t become overweight.

4. Health

Both the Balinese and ragdoll cats are a generally healthy breed of cat. However, just make sure that you constantly monitor their health and have them checked if they are looking less healthy than they normally do.

• Balinese cats are prone to developing hereditary diseases like progressive retinal atrophy. This is a condition where their vision deteriorates after some time and could lead to blindness.
• Meanwhile, since ragdolls are generally larger cats with less active lifestyles, their main health problem is obesity. Keep feeding them the appropriate amounts and ensure that they have enough exercise.

5. Care

The best way to keep a Balinese cat well-groomed is to remove loose hair with a soft brush or comb. Feed them good quality food and take note that they have a high metabolism. Still, watch out for signs of being overweight or obese.

Ragdolls have longer hair than Balinese cats. You need to brush these felines more often to prevent tangling and matting of their silky hair. And since they are at a higher risk of obesity, encourage them to play and only feed them needed portions.

6. Dependence on Human

Balinese love to be surrounded by people, but they can be happy to be independent as well. It is very easy to entertain them with toys and scratch posts at home, making them ideal for owners who don’t have much free time to spend with their pets.

On the other hand, ragdolls are very dependent on their human owners. Ragdolls are meant to be around humans; they would even get stressed or depressed if they feel lonely. So, make sure that you accompany your ragdoll cats often.

7. Cats’ Price

Between the two breeds, Balinese is the more affordable one, costing around $400 to $1,500 per kitten. As for ragdolls, you’ll need to pay twice as much, considering how a kitten of this breed can set you back $800 to $3,500.

Conclusion

Now, you have a general idea of the differences and similarities between Balinese vs ragdoll cats.

In short, ragdoll is more expensive and high-maintenance, but their docile yet affectionate nature makes them ideal for people who prefer quiet companionship. Meanwhile, Balinese are more independent and low-maintenance, but they can be quite vocal and energetic.

Well, if you want to have the best of both worlds, you can always look for a ragdoll Balinese mix!