Ragdoll vs Birman
Both are pointed, blue-eyed, silky-coated and gentle, so people mix them up. The Birman has four white gloves and is a little smaller, while the Ragdoll is bigger and floppier.
Side by side
| Ragdoll | Birman | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | California, USA | Burma (Myanmar) by legend, developed in France |
| Size | Large | Medium to large |
| Weight | Females 4.5 to 6.5 kg, males 6 to 9 kg | Females 3.5 to 5.5 kg, males 4.5 to 7 kg |
| Lifespan | Usually 12 to 15 years | Usually 12 to 16 years |
| Coat | Semi-long, silky and soft, with a rabbit-like feel | Medium-long, silky, with little undercoat, so it rarely mats |
| Energy | 2 out of 5 | 3 out of 5 |
| Affection | 5 out of 5 | 5 out of 5 |
| Chattiness | 2 out of 5 | 2 out of 5 |
| Grooming needed | 3 out of 5 | 3 out of 5 |
| Good with children | 5 out of 5 | 5 out of 5 |
| Good with other pets | 4 out of 5 | 4 out of 5 |
Scores are our own rough guide. Every cat is different.
The main differences
- Size: the Ragdoll is larger, with males commonly 6 to 9 kg, and the Birman is medium to large, often 4.5 to 7 kg.
- Paws: every Birman has white gloves on its front paws and laces on the back, while Ragdolls can be colourpoint, mitted or bicolour.
- Personality: both are gentle and sociable, though Ragdolls are famously floppy and the Birman a bit more playful.
- Coat: both have silky coats that tangle less than many longhairs.
Choose a Ragdoll if
- You want the biggest, floppiest lap cat
- You love the Ragdoll’s bicolour and mitted patterns
- You want a really relaxed cat
Choose a Birman if
- You love the white gloves
- You want a slightly smaller, more playful companion
- You want a gentle, sociable family cat
Our verdict
Both make superb family cats. If you want the big, floppy one, choose the Ragdoll. If you want the gloves and a slightly lighter build, choose the Birman. Ask both sets of breeders about heart screening.
Read the full guides: Ragdoll and Birman. Or see more cat breeds. This is a friendly overview, not veterinary advice.
Questions people ask
What is the difference between a Birman and a Ragdoll?
The Birman has white gloves on all four paws and is a bit smaller. The Ragdoll is larger, and comes in more pointed patterns.
Which is calmer?
Ragdolls are usually described as the most laid-back, though Birmans are gentle too.
