Ragamuffin
History:
The Ragamuffin is a close relative of the Ragdoll, developed in the 1990s by a group of breeders who wanted to expand the gene pool and allow for a wider variety of colours and patterns. Originally, Ragdoll cats were strictly regulated under founder Ann Baker’s breeding program, but when some breeders branched off, they introduced other longhaired breeds like Persians, Himalayans, and domestic longhairs to create what became the Ragamuffin. The breed was officially recognised by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) in 2003. While they share the same sweet temperament and plush appearance as Ragdolls, Ragamuffins are a distinct breed known for their affectionate nature, striking eyes, and luxurious coats. They are often called "living teddy bears" due to their soft coats and cuddly personalities.
Size: Large-sized cat
Height: 25–35 cm
Weight: 4.5–9 kg
Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years
Breed Appearance:
Ragamuffins are large, heavily boned cats with a broad chest, sturdy frame, and strong shoulders. They have a moderately broad head with rounded contours, full cheeks, and large, expressive walnut-shaped eyes that come in a range of colours, often appearing particularly luminous. The ears are medium-sized and slightly tilted forward. One of the breed’s signature features is its thick, plush coat, which feels like rabbit fur. It is medium to long and comes in all colours and patterns, from solid white to tabby, tortoiseshell, and mink. The coat drapes softly on the body without matting easily, and the tail is long and plumed. Overall, they give an impression of elegance with substance.
Health & Care:
Ragamuffins are generally healthy, but due to their large size and relaxed nature, they can be prone to obesity if not kept active. Some individuals may inherit conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a common heart issue in cats, though reputable breeders screen for this. Their dense but silky coat is surprisingly low-maintenance and does not mat easily. Weekly brushing is typically enough to keep the coat in good condition. Routine veterinary care, a balanced diet, dental hygiene, and moderate daily exercise are essential for keeping Ragamuffins in optimal health and preventing weight-related issues.
Living Conditions:
Ragamuffins thrive in indoor environments where they feel safe and loved. They are affectionate and people-oriented, preferring to be near their family at all times. Their laid-back demeanour makes them ideal for apartment living, though they also enjoy having space to roam. Ragamuffins are great with children, other cats, and even gentle dogs, often acting as gentle, tolerant companions. They’re not particularly agile climbers or jumpers but will enjoy lounging on sofas or beds. Because they’re so social, they may become lonely if left alone frequently, so they do best in homes where they receive consistent affection and attention.
Grooming:
Despite their luxurious coat, Ragamuffins are low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Their fur is not prone to matting and typically requires only once-a-week brushing to remove loose hairs and prevent minor tangles. During seasonal shedding, more frequent brushing may help. Routine nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are important parts of their grooming regimen. They typically tolerate grooming well and may even enjoy the attention. Bathing is rarely needed, but if done, a gentle cat shampoo should be used to preserve the coat’s texture and health.
Advantages:
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Ragamuffins are extremely affectionate and gentle, forming strong bonds with their families and thriving on human companionship.
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Their plush, soft coat gives them a luxurious, cuddly appearance with relatively low grooming needs.
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They are calm and adaptable, making them excellent for families with children, seniors, or other pets.
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Their sweet, easygoing nature makes them good therapy cats and ideal companions for a quiet home life.
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Ragamuffins are intelligent and can learn tricks, fetch, and respond to routines, often surprising owners with their trainability.
Disadvantages:
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Ragamuffins are prone to gaining weight due to their laid-back nature and large build, requiring portion control and exercise.
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They can be overly dependent on human companionship, potentially developing separation anxiety if left alone too often.
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Due to their calm and trusting demeanour, they should not be allowed outdoors unsupervised, as they may not sense danger well.
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Their rarity and breeding standards can make them expensive and harder to find through reputable breeders.
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While not high-maintenance, their dense coat does shed and requires regular grooming to stay clean and tangle-free.