Understanding Ragdoll Colors and Patterns
Introduction
Ragdoll cats are known for their gentle personalities, striking blue eyes, and luxurious coats. But one of the most fascinating things about them is the wide variety of colors and patterns they come in. From traditional seal and blue to rarer shades like lilac and chocolate, plus unique patterns such as mitted, bicolor, mink, and lynx, every Ragdoll looks a little different.
If you’ve ever wondered how to tell the difference between a Blue Lynx Bicolor and a Seal Colorpoint, or why Ragdoll kittens are born white, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
The Main Ragdoll Cat Colors
Ragdoll coats typically appear in four core colors, with variations that expand the palette.
Seal - A deep, rich brown that gives Ragdolls a classic look. Often compared to dark chocolate.
Blue - A cool, grayish tone that resembles a cloudy sky. One of the most popular Ragdoll colors.
Chocolate - A warm, lighter brown similar to milk chocolate. Softer in appearance than seal.
Lilac - A pale, silvery-gray with a hint of lavender. The rarest of the four main colors.
Flame (Red) and Cream - Flame Ragdolls have fiery orange-red tones, while Cream is a lighter, softer version of red.
Tortie - Torties mix patches of seal or chocolate with red or cream, creating a beautiful mosaic pattern.
Ragdoll Patterns Explained
In addition to color, Ragdolls come in distinct patterns that define their appearance.
Colorpoint
Darker shades on the ears, face, paws, and tail
Lighter body color
No white markings
Mitted
White “mittens” on the paws
White chin, chest, and belly stripe
Darker color on the back and face
Bicolor
Inverted “V” mask on the face
White chest, legs, and belly
Darker ears and tail
Variations and Special Markings
Mink (or Cherubim)
As of May 1, 2025, TICA will recognize mink, sepia, and solid semi-longhaired cats of the moderate type as a different breed called a Cherubim (CB), rather than Blue Eyed Pointed Ragdolls (RD).
Born with visible color instead of all-white
Often have aqua or even blue eyes
Can be seal, blue, chocolate, or lilac
Lynx Pattern
Tabby-like stripes, especially on the face
Distinct “M” marking on the forehead
White eye-liner effect for striking contrast
Blaze
White stripe or spot running down the nose
Can appear on mitted or bicolor cats
Fun Fact: Ragdoll Kittens Change Over Time
Most Ragdoll kittens are born completely white (except for minks). Their color gradually appears and darkens over the first three years of life. If you’re choosing a kitten based on coat, keep in mind that what you see at 8 weeks will look very different at adulthood.
Tortie is a color/pattern with patches of red/cream and seal/chocolate.
Quiz Time!
Identify the color/patterns of the following kittens (then check answers further down).
Quiz answers:
1.Seal Mink Bicolor (Cherubim)
2. Seal Colorpoint
3. Flame Bicolor
4. Blue (cannot see feet to determine mitted or colorpoint) with blaze
5. Blue Mitted Lynx
6. Blue Mitted with Blaze
7. Seal Colorpoint Lynx
8. Seal Mink Bicolor (Cherubim)
9. Seal Colorpoint and Blue Colorpoint Lynx
10. Seal Mitted
11. Creme Bicolor
12. Tortie Creme and Blue Bicolor Lynx (Whoa!)
I hope that helps you better understand Ragdoll colors and patterns! Keep an eye out for new kittens on the website to see if you can identify them on sight!