Ragamuffins are docile and domestic cats. They love being treated like babies and climbing into people’s arms. They are a variant of the Ragdoll and were established as a separate breed in 1994.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: United States
Used for: Companion
Average Life Span: 12-16 years
Color: All colors and patterns
Coat: Medium, silky and dense
Average Height: Large
Average Weight: 10-15 pounds
History and Domestication
The Ragamuffin is a variant of the Ragdoll and was created when the breeders thought of widening the gene pool of the latter and introducing new colors and patterns. They outcrossed Ragdolls with Persians, domestic longhaired cats and the Himalayan in order to introduce new changes in appearance that would differentiate these two cat breeds. This new breed was named Ragamuffin as a way of resembling its founding breed’s name. The first association to accept Ragamuffin as a full breed was the United Feline Organization (UFO). This breed only recently gained full recognition from the Cat Fanciers Association in 2011.
Standard Physical Characteristics
According to the breed’s standards, these cats can be described as cute cuddly teddy bears. Their large, walnut-shaped eyes are a special characteristic of their appearance and can be of any color. The kittens are born white and develop their colors and patterns while maturing. The head of a Ragamuffin is broad and wedge-shaped and has a rounded appearance. It is followed by a short, strong and heavy neck. The muscular and heavy body is broad-chested and often has fat over the lower abdomen. The tail is long and furred. They differ in appearance from the Ragdolls and have different facial features. For instance, Ragamuffins have full-cheeks and walnut-shaped eyes that are absent in Ragdolls. These large cats take about four years to fully mature and reach their full size.
Care, Grooming and Health
The long coat of a Ragamuffin is soft and doesn’t tangle easily. Weekly combing or brushing will keep it in a good state and remove dead hair. Brush their teeth regularly and check eyes and ears for any signs of infection.
Ragamuffins are generally healthy but may have some genetic health problems that run in a particular line. These are large cats but shouldn’t be allowed to get fat. It is a good idea not to let them overeat.
Living Conditions
This is a calm and even-tempered cat and makes an ideal family pet. This gentle giant gets along well with other house pets and children.
Temperament
Ragamuffins are extremely docile cats and go limp when held. They are often described as puppy like due to their tendency to play and fetch. These huggable lugs want nothing except to follow their people and sit in their laps. They are nice, sweet, smart and friendly cats who will greet your visitors warmly. They love being held like babies and will completely relax in your arms. These are mellow cats and do not demand attention but do not leave them alone for long durations.
