Ragdoll cats are a popular breed of domestic cat, known for their laid-back attitude and affectionate nature. But can these gentle giants jump fences?
While all cats have the ability to jump, some breeds are better at it than others. Ragdolls, for example, are not known for their jumping prowess. This is due in part to their size and build; Ragdolls are larger than average cats, with long bodies and short legs. This combination makes it more difficult for them to generate the power needed to clear a high fence.
Ragdoll cats are known for their docile and laid-back personalities. However, don’t let their easygoing nature fool you – ragdolls can be quite agile when they want to be. Ragdoll cats may not be known for their ability to jump, but that doesn’t mean they can’t do it with a little effort. The average Ragdoll is capable of jumping about six feet in the air. Therefore if your ragdoll cat wants to jump a fence, there’s a good chance they’ll be able to.
My Ragdoll cat, Ocean, spent over a year being safely confined to the garden until he plucked up the courage to jump the fence. Now he can do it with ease if he wants to go exploring.
Here are some tips to keep your ragdoll cat safe from jumping fences:
Keep your cat indoors: This is the best way to prevent them from jumping fences in the first place. If they are used to being indoors, they will be less likely to try and escape outdoors.
Use a leash: If you take your ragdoll cat outside, make sure they are on a leash at all times. This will prevent them from getting loose and potentially jumping a fence.
Install a fence topper: If you’re concerned about your ragdoll getting out of the yard, you can take some steps to make your fence more cat-proof. One option is to add a fence topper or cat-proof fence roller- this will make it more difficult for your cat to get a good grip on the top of the fence and will deter them from trying to jump it. It is important to make sure that the fence topper is installed securely so that it does not come loose and become a hazard for your cat. Find more about cat proof fence options here.
Build a Catio: Whether you have an indoor or outdoor cat, a catio—an enclosure attached to your home—provides many benefits for you and your feline friend. A catio gives your cat the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a safe environment, where they can jump, run, and play without the risk of escape or injury. There are many different ways to build a catio, depending on your budget and the amount of space you have available. You can find DIY plans online or hire a professional to construct one for you.
Enrich your home with play opportunities: Finally, if you have an indoor cat, provide them with plenty of toys and climbing opportunities so they don’t get bored and start looking for ways to escape. A happy indoor cat is a safe indoor cat!
In conclusion, whether or not Ragdoll cats can jump fences depends on the individual cat. Some Ragdolls are able to jump high fences, while others are not. If you are concerned about your Ragdoll cat getting out of your yard, you may want to consider installing a cat-proof fence topper to your fence.
