If you’re contemplating buying a ragdoll cat, one of the things you’ll want to know about their personality is: do they purr a lot?
Ragdoll cats are known for being one of the most affectionate cat breeds and are often described as “puppy-like” because of their love of cuddling and their tendency to follow their owners around.
Ragdolls also tend to be very vocal, which means they purr often.
So, do ragdoll cats purr a lot? The answer is yes! Ragdolls are known for their frequent and loud purring. In fact, many people say that ragdolls purr more than any other breed of cat.
Our ragdoll, Poppie, purrs all the time. She’ll often jump up onto the bed when we’re watching a movie and start purring like an engine.
This is one of the ragdoll breed’s best traits as purring is a really comforting and reassuring thing as an owner, knowing your cat is happy.
In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know about ragdolls purring including why they do it and what to do if they’re not purring.
Why do ragdoll cats purr?
Ragdoll cats generally purr for two main reasons – because they’re happy and feeling good; or because they’re trying to communicate with you. If your ragdoll wants something from you, they’re purring will usually be accompanied by them pawing at you for attention.
The most likely reason your ragdoll is purring a lot is that they are content and happy.
Ragdolls are known for being very easy-going, so if your cat is purring a lot, it’s likely because they’re feeling good.
The second most likely cause of a ragdoll purring often is because they’re trying to communicate with you.
Ragdolls are very social creatures, and they may purr to let you know that they want your attention or to show their affection for you.
It may also mean they’re hungry and want you to feed them.
You’ll generally be able to tell what mood your ragdoll is in by how loud and aggressively they purr at you.
If it’s calm and constant, it’s probably because they’re happy and content; if it’s pointed and deafening, they likely want something from you.
If your ragdoll cat isn’t purring as much as you’d like, there may be a few reasons why.
Why isn’t my ragdoll cat purring?
If your ragdoll cat isn’t purring very often, they may not be feeling well. This could be due to illness or because of unhealthy levels of stress and anxiety. If your ragdoll suddenly stops purring or starts purring less often, it’s a good idea to take them to the vet to check for any health problems.
It’s important to get to know how your ragdoll normally acts so that you can pick up any changes in their behaviour, including purring.
As mentioned above, one of the most common reasons why your ragdoll cat may not be purring as much as usual is because they’re feeling stressed or anxious.
If there have been any changes in their environment (such as a new pet or baby in the house), this could be the cause.
Try to provide your cat with a calm and relaxing environment, and give them plenty of attention and affection to help reduce their stress levels – this should hopefully relax them and prompt a return of purring.
How do I get my ragdoll cat to purr?
There are a few things you can do to encourage your ragdoll cat to purr including petting them in their favourite spot; offering them a treat; give them lots of attention; play regular games with them; and brushing them regularly. If you do a combination of these things, there’s a high chance your ragdoll will purr.
As you can see, there’s many ways to encourage purring from your ragdoll cat. I’ve expanded on each of these tips in more detail below to explain why they work.
1. Pet them in their favourite spot
Ragdoll cats are known for being especially docile and loving creatures, and they often purr when they’re happy.
If your cat doesn’t seem to be purring, it might simply be that they don’t feel comfortable enough around you yet.
Try spending more time with them and slowly petting them in their favourite spot until they start to purr.
2. Offer them a treat
Cats usually purr when they’re happy, so try offering your ragdoll cat their favourite treat as an incentive.
This could be some of their most-loved biscuits, or even participating in their favourite activity.
Rewarding your ragdoll will let them know that they’re doing something that makes you happy, and they’ll be more likely to do it again.
3. Give them lots of love and attention
Ragdoll cats are known for being loving creatures, so giving them lots of love and attention will usually make them purr.
This could include some cuddles (although, most ragdolls don’t like being held for more than a few moments), a belly rub, or even a scratch under the chin, which is what our ragdoll loves receiving.
4. Brush them regularly
Brushing – aside from making your ragdoll’s fur look fantastic – helps to stimulate their circulation and can be a calming activity for them.
However, this may not be suited to all ragdolls – our cat, for example, hates being brushed and voices her disapproval when she has to endure it.
Try it on your ragdoll and gauge their reaction. If they start purring, they obviously like it.
5. Play with them
Playing games with your ragdoll is a great way to bond together and get them exercising, both of which can lead to more purring.
Because ragdolls are very ‘puppy-like’ with their behaviour, they’ll love chasing after toys – whether it be soft mice or balls.
Then, once you’ve tired your ragdoll out, there’s a good chance they’ll be ready for a cuddle, which often leads to them purring.
Final message
If you’ve tried all the above tips and your ragdoll cat still isn’t purring as much as they used to, it’s possible that they just don’t purr as much as other cats do.
Some ragdolls are simply more vocal than others and there’s nothing wrong with that.
As long as they’re otherwise healthy and happy, there’s no need to worry.
