Can Ragdoll Cats Go Outside?

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Cats are generally known for being independent animals that simply tolerate their owners.  With reputations for being aloof and able to fend for themselves in the outdoors, as long as they are not declawed, cats are typically safe outside.  But are all breeds safe when they are outside or should some be kept strictly inside?

Can Ragdoll cats go outside? Ragdoll cats should be kept indoors. They are docile cats, specifically bred to go limp and relax when they are picked up. They make great family pets, but should not be left outside.

There really are a few reasons why this specific breed of cat should not be sent to freely roam in the great outdoors.  Cats can normally handle themselves and are not generally trusting of strangers. This is really not the case with Ragdolls but this is only one reason they should stay indoors.

What is a Ragdoll Cat?

Some of you may be reading because you have a Ragdoll and are just curious about the best things to allow this breed to do.  Some of you may be researching the breed before you commit to becoming a roommate of this unique breed.

Either way, we are glad you are here because this information is important and may not be common knowledge among cat owners.  Ragdolls are an incredibly docile breed of cat.  They are named for the way their body relaxes when they are picked up or petted.

They are a beautiful cat with medium length fur that is off white in nature with gray or black points.  This particular breed is very popular as a pet but is also on the list of the most expensive breeds so they are not seen in abundance among cat owners.

Are They Good Pets?

Ragdolls really get top billing as a wonderful family pet.  They are so easy going and tolerant.  If you are looking for a great pet for your children that will not scratch them or run away then this is the breed you are looking for.

They love children and do not startle easily at all.  However, this does not mean that it is okay for children to be rough with them or be mean because the cat will let them.  Always teach your children to be kind and respectful to any animal.

Ragdoll cats would be a wonderful addition to any cat-loving family.  Other than maybe some grooming maintenance, they are very low maintenance and bond well with their people.

Are Ragdolls Indoor or Outdoor Cats?

Cats, in general, are very much indoor and outdoor pets.  They can be either one or both.  However, there are breeds that should not go outside unsupervised or allowed to freely roam or hunt at night.

Ragdoll cats are one of those breeds that should not be allowed outside alone. Ever.  That may sound like we are overreacting but I can assure you that we are not. This is a strictly indoor breed.  If you don’t believe us or don’t plan to keep your Ragdoll inside, we would encourage you to look into getting a different breed of cat.

We will go into more detail about why this is important in just a minute. The ability to care appropriately for the needs of a specific breed is very important when planning to become a pet owner.  Honoring the cat’s ability or inability to handle the outdoors will be a key part of keeping your pet safe for the duration of their life with you.

Is Outside Safe for Them?

Outside is not safe for this cat.  They tend to go limp or very relaxed when they are touched or picked up.  While they do in fact bond very deeply with their owner, they also don’t have any control over what their muscles do. 

This was bred into them and is not something that comes and goes.  The relaxation gene will win out every time.  This makes them very prime targets for predators and other mishaps.

Why Should I Limit Outside Time?

If you really want to give your feline companion some outside time, we suggest that you limit that time. They really don’t do well outside but if you must, take them outside for short periods of time on a leash.

We realize that some may think putting a cat on a leash is odd or at the very least a bad idea, but it is best for Ragdoll cats. This cat breed is incredibly codependent and won’t feel very secure outside anyway.  One of the worst things that could happen is that they get spooked and run away.

Another terrifying scenario is that you let them outside alone and a predator carries them away, or someone thinks they are lost and takes them home.  They are also very easy to steal because of their docile and trusting nature.

Can Ragdolls Go Outside?

Of course, they can go outside.  Physically it won’t hurt their paws to touch the ground, they have fur so they can’t get a sunburn like another breed of cat. There is nothing physically preventing them from going out of the house and getting some fresh air and sunshine.

It isn’t really a question of ability when we talk about the Ragdoll cat going outside.  It is more about whether or not it is safe.

Should They Go Outside?

Ragdoll cats really should not go outside.  This is not wise to do with such a laid back cat.  They don’t have very good outside skills and would be unable to survive for very long on their own.  This isn’t their fault.  They were bred this way by design.

Part of the responsibility of being a good Ragdoll owner is keeping them safe and respecting the limits of the breed. If you are looking for a rough and tumble cat breed that can hold their own like the cat in Homeward Bound, you may want to look somewhere else because the Ragdoll is not it.