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A Clear Look at the Ragdoll vs Cherubim Difference
When people start researching Ragdoll kittens, the question of Ragdoll vs Cherubim comes up almost immediately. And honestly, it makes sense — the names are different, the colors can be different, and TICA’s new classification has added a layer of curiosity. So I like to explain it the same way I do when I talk to families in person: simply, clearly, and in a clear way.
The first thing to understand is that when we compare Ragdoll vs Cherubim, we are not comparing temperament. Personality wise, they are the same. Both are affectionate, calm, people oriented, and incredibly loyal. They bond closely with their families, they love gentle homes, and they truly feel like companions rather than just pets. So if the personality question is what you’re worried about, you can relax. In that area, they are equals.
How TICA Redefined Ragdoll vs Cherubim
The difference between the two comes from the way TICA now classifies them. Before May 1, 2025, mink, sepia, and solid variations were all still registered under the Ragdoll name. They weren’t considered a separate breed; they were simply referred to as non traditional Ragdolls.
That meant families would sometimes see a Ragdoll kitten with dark coloring or non blue eyes and wonder why it looked so different from the classic pointed style.
On May 1, 2025, TICA officially recognized these non traditional colors under the new breed name Cherubim. This change separated the traditional pointed Ragdolls from the mink, sepia, and solid lines, giving each group their own clear identity.
You can read the official information here:
https://tica.org/breed/cherubim
What Newborns Look Like: The First Clear Difference
One of the simplest and most visual ways to understand Ragdoll vs Cherubim is by looking at newborn kittens. This is usually the moment families go “Oh, now I get it.”
Ragdoll newborns
Traditional Ragdolls are born completely white. They don’t show their color or pattern at birth. Their points appear slowly as they grow, which is one of the sweetest transformations to watch.
Cherubim newborns
Cherubim kittens are born with visible color from day one. Whether they are mink, sepia, or solid, their shades are already showing the moment they are born.
To make the difference clear, here is a litter of Cherubims and a litter of Ragdolls side by side. You can clearly see the difference in color at birth.
Seeing these two litters next to each other explains the Ragdoll vs Cherubim difference better than any words can.
Coat and Color: Understanding the Visual Variety
Traditional Ragdolls follow the well known pointed pattern — a pale body with darker extremities. It’s a timeless, classic look.
Cherubims, however, offer more variety because they include the mink, sepia, and solid lines that used to be grouped under the old Ragdoll classification. These kittens have richer tones and deeper coloring, which gives them a more full bodied appearance. The variety is larger, but the structure and temperament remain the same.
Here is a Seal Ragdoll
Here is a Seal Cherubim
Eye Color in Ragdoll vs Cherubim
Eye color is another difference people often notice.
Traditional Ragdolls always have blue eyes. This is part of their breed standard.
Cherubims, depending on their line, may have aqua, green, or gold eyes. Mink kittens often develop aqua eyes, while sepias can have the deeper tones. This adds to their unique appearance without changing any part of their personality.
Coat Texture and Grooming
Even though the colors differ, both Ragdolls and Cherubims share the same soft, silky coat texture. Their fur is semi long, smooth, and does not carry a heavy undercoat. Grooming stays manageable with simple weekly brushing. They keep their plush look without the high maintenance demands that other long haired breeds sometimes have.
Choosing Between Ragdoll vs Cherubim
When families try to decide between Ragdoll vs Cherubim, the real choice usually comes down to appearance. If you prefer the classic pointed contrast and blue eyes, you will love a traditional Ragdoll. If you want richer tones, more variety, and color visible from birth, Cherubims are a beautiful choice.
Either way, you’re choosing a cat with a calm heart, a loving nature, and a gentle bond with people.
If you want to see previous kittens or compare litters visually, you can visit the Previous Cats & Kittens page.
Can you spot two Cherubim’s in this litter? Feel free to leave a comment on who you think it is.
