Ragdolls vs. Cherubim: What's the difference?

Ragdolls and Cherubims are extremely similar. So similar in fact they used to be the same breed until 2024! Learn more about the breed and why the switch was made.

Ragdolls

Seal Bicolor Ragdoll

Ragdoll cats are among the most popular breeds globally today. They were developed in the 1960s by a woman named Ann Baker. The journey began with a cat named Josephine, and through selective breeding, Ann Baker created a truly beautiful cat with a gentle and loving temperament. It can be said she succeeded! Ragdoll cats are renowned for their docile nature and are often called "dogs of the cat world" or "puppy cats" because of their incredibly sweet disposition and their affection and loyalty toward their families.

Ragdolls are recognized for their striking blue eyes and stunning markings. They come in six traditional colors: blue, lilac, seal, chocolate, flame, and cream. Additionally, they can appear in variations such as pointed, bicolor, lynx and tortie. All Ragdolls possess distinct blue eyes and traditional colors. Ragdoll kittens are born white and gradually develop their coloring as they grow older.

Cherubims

Seal Point Mink Cherubim

The story of Cherubim cats begins with the Ragdoll in the 1960s. Ann Baker, who is known for creating Ragdoll cats, had a broader vision that included several distinct breeding lines. While most cat lovers are familiar with the blue-eyed pointed Ragdolls, she was simultaneously developing what would become Cherubim cats. These cats were so special to Baker that she included “Registrar of Cherubim Cats” on every original IRCA Ragdoll registration. The Cherubim journey reached an exciting milestone in 2025 when TICA officially welcomed them into the Ragdoll Breed Group. This recognition preserves their important connection to Ragdolls while celebrating their unique features – particularly their stunning mink, sepia and solid colors. 

What's the difference? 

So what exactly makes Ragdolls and Cherubims different you may ask... Well what sets them apart from one another is that Cherubims have a variety of colors and patterns along with beautiful aqua eyes, whereas Ragdolls have the most stunning "traditional" look with the most beautiful deep blue eyes. Up until 2024 they were catagorized as a "mink, sepia or solid" ragdolls, but now they have their own breed name! While they still have the same personality as your typical ragdoll they are now recognized and can be shown as their own breed.

We absolutety adore both breeds here at Kings Kitties Ragdolls! While our program is more geared towards tradtional ragdolls you can expect to see some upcoming Cherubims in the future!

We hope this helped explain a little bit more about the difference of these two beautiful breeds. If you ever have any questions or are interested in one of our kittens please feel free to reach out to us or fill out our kitten application form!

Blessings!

Kings Kitties Ragdolls <3