Ragamuffin Cat Breed Information

Ragamuffin cats are the gentle giants of the feline world, known for their striking appearance and lovable personalities. These fluffy furballs sport a luxurious semi-long coat that’s as soft as a cloud and comes in a rainbow of colours and patterns. With their large, muscular bodies and sweet walnut-shaped eyes, Ragamuffins are truly a sight to behold.

Impressive size: Males can weigh up to 9kg (roughly 20 pounds), females 4.5-7kg (roughly 10-15 pounds)
Coat colours range from solid to bi-colour to tortoiseshell and beyond
Distinctive walnut-shaped eyes in various hues
Reach full maturity around 4 years old
Lifespan of 12-18 years with proper care

Quick Facts About Ragamuffin Breed

Ragamuffin Breed History and Origins

The Ragamuffin is a relatively new cat breed, first developed in the 1960s as an offshoot of the Ragdoll. Breeders wanted to create a more diverse range of colours and patterns, while retaining the Ragdoll’s sweet temperament.

Originated in the United States as a Ragdoll variation
Crossed with Persians, Himalayans, and other longhaired breeds to introduce colour variety
Recognised by the United Feline Organisation (UFO) in 1994
Accepted by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 2003
The name “Ragamuffin” was chosen to distinguish them from Ragdolls

With their plush coats, affectionate nature, and dog-like loyalty, Ragamuffins have gained popularity in the UK and worldwide.

Understanding the Ragamuffin Temperament

Ragamuffins are laid-back, affectionate, and highly social – making them one of the most people-oriented cat breeds. They crave attention and are often called “puppy cats” because of their willingness to follow their owners around.

Extremely affectionate and love cuddles
Great with children – patient and tolerant
Hate being left alone – thrive in homes where someone is present most of the time
Playful but not hyperactive – enjoy interactive games
Adapt well to various households, including those with dogs and other pets

These cats form deep bonds with their families and are known to greet their humans at the door. If you want a cat that loves attention, the Ragamuffin is purr-fect for you!

Key Characteristics of Ragamuffin Cats

The Ragamuffin is a large, muscular cat wrapped in a plush, semi-long coat that feels as soft as a bunny’s fur. Their distinctive walnut-shaped eyes give them an irresistibly sweet expression.

Large, muscular build – males can weigh up to 9kg (20 lbs), females 4.5-7kg (10-15 lbs)
Silky, semi-long coat that comes in any colour or pattern
Distinctive walnut-shaped eyes in a variety of hues
Tufted ears and paws add to their cuddly appearance
Slow to mature – reach full size around 4 years old

Unlike their Ragdoll cousins, Ragamuffins do not have colour-point restrictions, making them available in every colour and pattern imaginable.

Common Ragamuffin Cat Health Issues

Ragamuffins are generally healthy but, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues:

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) – a common heart disease in large cats
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) – a genetic condition found in Persian-related breeds
Joint issues and arthritis due to their large size
Obesity – they love food and can easily gain weight
Dental problems – regular brushing helps maintain oral health

Regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet will help ensure your Ragamuffin lives a long, healthy life.

Ragamuffin Compatibility with Families and Other Pets

Ragamuffins are the purrfect family pets, adapting well to various household situations.

Excellent with children – patient and tolerant
Love company – ideal for families, singles, and seniors
Good with other pets – get along well with cat-friendly dogs and other cats
Prefer calm environments but can adapt to busier households

These cats thrive on companionship, so they are best suited to homes where they won’t be left alone for long periods.

Should Ragamuffin's Be Indoor Cats?

Yes! Ragamuffins should be indoor cats due to their trusting, friendly nature. They lack street smarts, making them vulnerable to dangers like cars, theft, and aggressive animals.

Not streetwise – may approach strangers or cars without fear
Thick coat makes them susceptible to overheating in warm weather
Safer indoors, but they enjoy supervised outdoor time in secure enclosures
Indoor enrichment like scratching posts, climbing trees, and puzzle toys keeps them happy

If you want your Ragamuffin to enjoy the outdoors, a “catio” or secure garden space is a great solution

Essential Grooming Tips for Ragamuffin Cats

Despite their long coats, Ragamuffins have a unique low-maintenance fur that resists matting.

Brush 2-3 times a week to remove loose hair
Shedding is moderate – more noticeable in seasonal changes
Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are essential

Their coats are less prone to tangles than other long-haired breeds, making them easier to maintain.

Proper Nutrition and Feeding for Ragamuffin

To keep your Ragamuffin healthy and happy, feed them a high-quality, protein-rich diet.

High-protein, meat-based diet is essential
Portion control to prevent obesity
Wet food can help maintain hydration
Life-stage appropriate food (kitten, adult, senior) is key
Special diets may be needed for cats with HCM or kidney issues

Avoid cheap, carb-heavy foods – Ragamuffins thrive on animal-based proteins. Look for cat foods where meat, fish, or poultry are the first ingredients. While they can digest some carbohydrates, their diet should be primarily protein-based to support their muscular bodies.

Due to their large size and tendency towards laziness, Ragamuffins can easily become overweight. It’s important to measure their food and feed them controlled portions rather than free-feeding. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the right amount of food for your cat based on their age, weight, and activity level.

Interesting Facts About Ragamuffin Cats

One of the largest domestic cat breeds, rivalling Maine Coons
Dog-like personality – follow their owners everywhere
Less prone to matting than most longhaired cats
Kitten-like playfulness lasts well into adulthood
Can come in any colour or pattern – unlike Ragdolls

Ragamuffin Breed FAQ's

Are Ragamuffins hypoallergenic?

No. Ragamuffins produce Fel d 1, the allergen found in cat saliva and dander. If you're allergic, spending time with a Ragamuffin before adopting is highly recommended.

Do Ragamuffins shed a lot?

They have moderate shedding. Shedding increases in spring and autumn, but regular brushing reduces loose hair.

Are Ragamuffins good for first-time cat owners?

Yes! Their easy-going nature, low grooming needs, and affectionate temperament make them great for beginners.

How long do Ragamuffins live?

With proper care, they live between 12-18 years.

Are Ragamuffins expensive?

Yes. Expect to pay between £800 - £1500 from a reputable breeder.

Similar Breeds

Ragdoll: The closest relative to the Ragamuffin, sharing many physical and temperamental traits but with a more limited colour range.
Maine Coon: Another large, friendly breed with a semi-long coat. Maine Coons are generally more active and have a distinctive “wild” look.
Siberian: A large, fluffy breed known for its intelligence and playful nature. Siberians are more active than Ragamuffins and have a triple coat.
Norwegian Forest Cat: Similar in size to Ragamuffins, these cats are more independent and have a thicker, water-resistant coat.
Birman: While smaller than Ragamuffins, Birmans share the gentle temperament and semi-long coat. They have distinctive white “gloves” on their paws.

Ragamuffins are the cat’s pyjamas when it comes to family pets. With their loving nature, stunning looks, and adaptable personalities, they’re sure to bring joy and companionship to any home lucky enough to have them. Whether you’re looking for a gentle giant to cuddle with or a patient playmate for your children, the Ragamuffin might just be the purrfect choice.

Cat mad

The team at Cat Mad are lifelong cat enthusiasts and regularly give cats loving homes through fostering and adoption. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience caring for cats of all breeds and temperaments, we share our knowledge and insights to help cat owners provide the best possible care for their furry friends.

About Cat Mad

Cat mad

The team at Cat Mad are lifelong cat enthusiasts and regularly give cats loving homes through fostering and adoption. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience caring for cats of all breeds and temperaments, we share our knowledge and insights to help cat owners provide the best possible care for their furry friends.

About Cat Mad

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