Ragdoll Cat Grooming 101
This page is nowhere near finished. If you are getting a kitten from us and need all the grooming info, please contact me.
How I Bathe and Groom My Ragdoll Cats
Ragdolls have the most beautiful, soft, silky coats, and luckily they’re pretty easy to care for. Even though they’re long-haired, they don’t have a thick undercoat like some other breeds, which means less matting and easier grooming overall. With a little regular maintenance, their coats stay gorgeous and healthy.
Brushing a Ragdoll
I recommend brushing your Ragdoll two to three times a week, and more often during shedding seasons. A stainless-steel comb or a gentle slicker brush works great. I always pay extra attention behind the ears, under the arms, around the chest, and near the tail since those areas can tangle first.
Regular brushing helps remove loose hair, reduces shedding and hairballs, and keeps the coat looking smooth and fluffy. Most Ragdolls actually enjoy being brushed, especially when they’re used to it from a young age.
How Often Do Ragdolls Need Baths?
Ragdolls do not need frequent baths. I usually bathe them about every 2-3 months, or only if they’ve gotten dirty. Bathing too often can dry out their skin, so there’s no need to overdo it.
How I Bathe a Ragdoll
Before the bath, I always brush first to remove loose fur and prevent tangles. The water needs to be very, very warm, but not too hot. A cat's normal body temp is about 102, so I always keep the water at 100. We use a rubber duck with a digital thermometer to make sure the water is the right temp. I slowly wet the body, avoiding the face and ears, then gently massage the shampoo into the coat. No scrubbing needed.
Rinsing well is very important—any leftover shampoo can irritate the skin. After the bath, I towel dry thoroughly. Some Ragdolls tolerate a low-heat blow dryer, but towel drying works just fine for most.
Nails, Ears, and Final Touches
Nails should be trimmed every 2–3 weeks. I also do a quick ear check during grooming, but most Ragdolls don’t need frequent ear cleaning unless there’s visible buildup.
Grooming Is Bonding Time
Grooming isn’t just about keeping your Ragdoll looking pretty—it’s also a great bonding experience. When grooming is done gently and consistently, it helps your cat feel relaxed, secure, and comfortable being handled.
With regular brushing and the occasional bath, your Ragdoll will stay clean, soft, and absolutely stunning.
Grooming Supplies for Ragdoll Kittens
Chris Christensen Top Cat Volume Shampoo https://amzn.to/4mGZmol
Chris Christensen Top Cat Anti-Static Styling Spray for Cats https://amzn.to/46NreBh
Chris Christensen 20 mm Pocket Oval Pin Brush (says dogs, can be used for cats) https://amzn.to/3VOxrIo
Chris Christensen 6in Cat/Carding Dual Tooth Butter Comb, Groom Like a Professional
Hertzko Cat Dematting Comb (in case of emergency) https://amzn.to/4pVdWvc
Ragdoll Grooming
These are must have grooming supplies for ragdolls if you want their coat to look really beautiful and healthy! Never use a furminator or thinning brush on a ragdoll. The brushes/combs below are the ONLY ones we use on our dolls. I know the brush says it's for dogs. I've been to enough cat shows and groomed enough ragdolls and I can promise you this is the brush you need for you ragdoll cat. The happy kitty spray is really great for between baths and Chris
Christensen makes the best shampoo.
