This Cat Is Taking Instagram by Storm – Meet the Ragamuffin!
The Ragamuffin cat, is a large, gentle, and affectionate breed known for its soft, long fur and sweet personality. They are a cross between the Ragdoll and Persian cats, and they inherit the best qualities of both breeds. Ragamuffins are very laid-back and docile cats that love to cuddle and be around people. They are also very patient and gentle with children, making them perfect family pets.
Ragamuffins come in various colors and patterns, including solid colors, bi-colors, and tabbies. Also, they have a long, thick coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
However, they are relatively low-maintenance cats overall and make great indoor pets.If you are looking for a loving and cuddly cat that is also low-maintenance, the Ragamuffin may be the perfect breed for you.
Ragamuffin Overview
These adorable felines are known for their friendly nature and cuddly personalities. Their stunning appearance and gentle temperament make them excellent companions for individuals and families. Here are some additional facts about Ragamuffin cats:
- They are known for their “ragdoll” personality, which means they go limp and relaxed when picked up.
- They are brilliant and easy to train.
- They are good with children and other pets.
- They have a lifespan of 10-15 years.
- They are relatively healthy cats but can be prone to certain conditions, such as obesity and hip dysplasia.
Appearance
Ragamuffin cats have a unique and strong look. Their bodies are muscled and square-like. They have medium-long to long hair that appears fluffy. This breed has broad chests with short neck that sits on their shoulders.
You can find Ragamuffins in many colors and patterns. All of these make the Ragamuffin cat’s look big and grand.
Temperament
Ragamuffins have a cool and calm nature. They are friendly cats who love people. Their loyal and loving hearts make them sweet pets. Ragamuffins are easy to live with because they are easygoing.
These cats love to be around their owners, showing how much they care about you.
Living Needs
Ragamuffin cats love to live in homes. They need room to play and run around. But they can also live well in apartments. These cats get along with people and other pets very well.
They need things to do so they don’t get bored. Toys and games help keep them happy. Ragamuffins are smart cats, so try fun ways to train them too! It helps if you change their daily routine sometimes, as they adapt quickly.
Care
Taking care of a Ragamuffin cat is relatively easy. Their coats are low-maintenance and resistant to tangles, so brushing them once or twice a week should be enough to keep their fur looking nice.
Regarding health, Ragamuffins have a lifespan of around 12 to 16 years, which is average for cats. They generally have good temperaments and get along well with other cats, children, families, and seniors.
When it comes to intelligence, they’re considered to have medium levels of smarts. Caring for a Ragamuffin involves regular grooming and providing them with love and attention – just like any other pet!
Health
Ragamuffin cats are generally healthy and have a longer lifespan than other cat breeds, up to 18 years. However, like any purebred cat, they can be predisposed to certain inherited health conditions such as cardiomyopathy (a heart disease) and polycystic kidney disease.
Despite these potential health issues, Ragamuffins have genetic variations that provide some protection against these problems. Overall, Ragamuffins are considered a relatively healthy breed of cats in terms of overall well-being.
History of Ragamuffin
The history of the Ragamuffin as a distinct breed is relatively short, with recognition separate from the Ragdoll occurring in the last three decades. In 1994, the Ragamuffin became its own breed apart from the Ragdoll.
It originated in California and was officially named “RagaMuffin” in February. These cats are known for their thick, rabbit-like fur and friendly, docile personalities.
Personality
The Ragamuffin cat has a wonderful personality that makes it a beloved pet. These cats are known for their calm and adaptable nature, so they can easily adjust to different living environments, including apartments.
They are friendly and personable, often described as “puppy-like.” With their affectionate temperament, Ragamuffins love to cuddle and spend time with their owners. They are loyal companions who enjoy being part of the family.
While they may not be the most intelligent breed, they make up for it with their loving nature and gentle disposition. Overall, Ragamuffins have a calm energy level and are known for being easygoing and amiable pets.
Physical Attributes
The Ragamuffin cat is known for its beautiful coat, broad-chested body, and walnut-shaped eyes.
Head
Ragamuffins have a distinctively broad head with a rounded, wedge-shaped appearance. Their muzzle is shortened and round, giving them an adorable and unique look. The breed is known for its prominent cheeks and well-rounded skulls.
Ragamuffin cats also have medium-sized ears that tilt slightly forward. All of these features contribute to their cute and charming expressions. Their fur can make their face appear even bigger!
Ears
Ragamuffin cats have medium-sized ears on the sides of their heads. These cute feline ears tilt forward slightly and have a triangular pointed shape. One interesting feature of Ragamuffin cat ears is that they are furnished with tufts of fur, which adds to their adorable appearance.
Eyes & Eye Color
Ragamuffin cats have big, round eyes that resemble the shape of a walnut. These oval-shaped eyes can come in various colors, including shades of blue and green. Some ragamuffins even have heterochromia, where each eye is a different color.
So you may find one blue eye and one green eye on these adorable cats! The eye color can vary within the spectrum of blues and greens, adding to their unique appearance.
Legs & Paws
Ragamuffins have strong and long legs with heavily boned structures. Their legs provide them with excellent agility and jumping abilities. These cats also have large, round paws that help them maintain their balance and grip on various surfaces.
Most Ragamuffin cats have completely white paws, which adds to their adorable appearance. Their broad-chested body shape gives them a muscular look, making them even more striking in appearance.
Tail
The Ragamuffin cat breed is known for its long, fluffy tail that adds to its charm. The tail of a Ragamuffin cat is characterized by its length, tapering slightly towards the end. This gives it a graceful appearance.
Additionally, the hair volume on their tails makes them appear large and full. So, if you’re looking for a cat with an impressive tail, the Ragamuffin might be just what you’re looking for.
Coat
The Ragamuffin’s coat is one of its standout features. It is thick and plush, making it feel incredibly soft to the touch. Petting a Ragamuffin’s fur is often compared to petting a rabbit’s fur because of its unique texture.
The coat is semi-long-haired, which means it isn’t too short or long. This makes it easier to care for as it doesn’t mat easily. The coat is also associated with the cat’s physical attributes, such as being heavily boned and having a long tail.
Color
Ragamuffin cats come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. The most popular coat colors for Ragamuffins are blue, brown tabby with white, tortoiseshell, and mink. Some Ragamuffins have a color point pattern, where their body is light in color while the extremities, mask, and ears are darker.
It’s interesting to note that Ragamuffin kittens are born white and develop their color pattern as they grow up. Whether solid or mixed with white markings, any color and pattern are allowed in Ragamuffin cats.
Fun Facts About Ragamuffin Cats
- Ragamuffin cats are known for their playful and friendly nature.
- They follow their owners around the house, just like dogs.
- Ragamuffins are excellent jumpers and climbers, so ensure they have plenty of vertical spaces to explore.
- These cats are known for their incredible intelligence and can learn tricks quickly.
- Despite their large size, Ragamuffins are surprisingly agile and graceful.
- They have a soft voice and love to communicate with their owners through gentle meows.
- Ragamuffins are great with kids and other pets, making them a perfect addition to any family.
- These cats have a thick coat that requires regular brushing to keep them looking their best.
Popular Ragamuffin Names
Ragamuffin cats are beloved by many pet owners in the USA. You might wonder what to name if you are lucky enough to have one of these beautiful and affectionate cats. Here are some popular Ragamuffin names to help inspire you:
- Luna
- Oliver
- Bella
- Max
- Lily
- Charlie
- Lucy
- Leo
- Sophie
- Milo
Common Health Issues Of Ragamuffin
Ragamuffin cats, like any other breed, can experience certain health issues. Ragamuffin owners need to be aware of these common health concerns to provide the best care for their furry friends.
One common health issue that Ragamuffins are prone to is cardiomyopathy, which affects the heart muscle and can lead to heart failure. Another potential health problem for Ragamuffins is polycystic kidney disease (PKD), characterized by kidney cysts.
These two conditions are hereditary and can affect the overall well-being of a Ragamuffin cat. Moreover, Ragamuffins may also be prone to obesity if they overeat or do not engage in enough physical activity.
Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are crucial in preventing these health issues and ensuring your beloved Ragamuffin companion’s long and healthy life.
How Do You Tell If Your Cat Is A Ragamuffin?
Ragamuffin cats have some distinct features that can help you determine if your cat is one of them.
- Look at their paws – Ragamuffins typically have completely white paws.
- They also have long, strong legs, well-developed chin, and oval-shaped blue eyes.
- Another important characteristic is their large and broad-chested body.
If your cat meets these physical attributes, there’s a good chance it could be a Ragamuffin! However remember, to be certain; it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian or expert in cat breeds.
Ragamuffins Vs. Ragdolls Comparison
With Ragamuffins and Ragdolls are often confused due to their similar looks; it is pertinent to understand the differences and similarities between these attractive cat breeds. Here is a comparison table that provides a clear differentiation.
| Attribute | Ragamuffin | Ragdoll |
| Coat | Ragamuffins have a longer coat that’s highly resistant to matting and come in various colors and patterns. | Ragdolls also have a long coat and a plumed tail but have limited colors and patterns. |
| Eye Color and Shape | Ragamuffins have round, walnut-shaped eyes that can be any color. | Ragdolls have more oval-shaped eyes that are generally blue. |
| Size and Body Type | Ragamuffins are muscular cats with moderate size, slightly smaller than Ragdolls. | Ragdolls are slightly larger, with males weighing 12 pounds or more. They have a strong, muscular body. |
| Ancestry | Both Ragamuffins and Ragdolls share the same ancestry. | Same as Ragamuffins, Ragdolls also share the same ancestry. |
Price to Own a Ragamuffin
The cost of owning a Ragamuffin cat can vary, but on average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 for a kitten.
Kittens
Ragamuffin kittens are absolutely adorable! These little furballs have big, expressive eyes and fluffy coats. When it comes to cost, it is a bit expensive.
The price of owning a Ragamuffin kitten can range from $1,200 to $2,000 in the USA. That may seem steep, but these kittens are worth every penny. Also, keep in mind that adoption prices can be more affordable at around 300 USD.
Lifespan,
The lifespan of a Ragamuffin cat, is 12 to 16 years, but they can live even longer, sometimes up to 18 years. Hence, this means that if you decide to bring home a Ragamuffin, you should be prepared for a long and happy life together.
FAQ
Are Ragamuffin Cats Cuddly?
Ragamuffin cats are cuddly and affectionate in nature. They absolutely love to snuggle up with their owners and enjoy being close to them. Ragamuffins are often described as being like dogs because of their friendly and personable behavior.
They crave attention and will happily spend hours curled up in your lap or by your side. If you’re looking for a cat that loves to cuddle, then a Ragamuffin is the perfect choice!
Are Ragamuffin Cats Rare?
No, Ragamuffin cats are not rare. While they may not be as well-known as some other cat breeds, they can still be found fairly easily. Moreover, the breed is separate from Ragdoll cats in 1994, so it is relatively new compared to other breeds.
However, some reputable breeders specialize in breeding Ragamuffins; you can find them for sale if you want to own one.
Are Ragamuffin Cats Intelligent?
Ragamuffin cats are known for their intelligence. They are often compared to dogs because of their smart nature. Moreover, they can be easily trained; some owners even clicker train them, just like you would with a dog.
Is Ragamuffin A Persian Cat?
Ragamuffin cats are often mistaken for Persian cats because they have similar long, luxurious coats. However, Ragamuffins and Persians are different breeds with distinct characteristics and origins.
While the Ragamuffin breed was created by crossing Ragdolls with Persians, Himalayans, and domestic longhairs, Persians have a separate lineage. Therefore, even though they may look alike, Ragamuffins and Persians are not the same type of cat.
What Country Are Ragamuffin Cats From?
Ragdoll cats are not from any particular country. They were developed in the United States in the 1960s by Ann Baker, a cat breeder in Riverside, California. Moreover, the breed is a cross between several different breeds, including the Persian, Birman, and Siamese.
