RagaMuffin Cat with Feline Fancy Logo.

RagaMuffin Cat | History, Traits, and Care

RagaMuffin Cat Traits: What Makes This Breed Stand Out?

Known for their affectionate and gentle temperament, Ragamuffin cats are the perfect companions for families and individuals alike. With their luxurious, plush coats and striking, expressive eyes, these lovable felines are sure to steal your heart.

The Ragamuffin cat, known for its affectionate nature, is a robust and muscular Cat Breed with a rectangular body shape, broad chest, and powerful build. They have a sweet expression highlighted by large, walnut shaped eyes and moderately tufted ears. Their glorious, luxuriant semi long coat is silky soft, often featuring a ruff around the neck, a plumed tail, and tufts between the toes. This domestic longhair cat breed, a homage to the Ragdoll Cat, is an ideal lap cat and family companion, weighing around pounds. Ragamuffins are known to enjoy attention and are skilled at learning tricks. As an obligate carnivore, their diet and cat food recipes are crucial for their health and longevity.

RagaMuffin Cat looking cute.

Quick facts

Ragamuffin Cat Life Span

 How long do Ragamuffin Cats live? 
12 - 17 years.

Average Weight 

Ragamuffin Cat size
3.5kg - 9.0kg

Colours

The RagaMuffin cat comes in all colours, patterns and markings.
RagaMuffin kitten playing with Wool Balls.

Essential Information

  • Ideal for first time cat owners.
  • Active and enjoys playing games.
  • Playful and naturally curious.
  • Sociable and likes companionship.
  • Mildly talkative.
  • Larger, stockier Cat Breed.
  • Needs daily Grooming.
  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor environments.
  • Perfect family cat.
  • Can tolerate being left alone.
  • Thrives in a calm, relaxed home.
  • Communicates through expressive Body Language.
  • Benefits from good dental care.
  • Enjoys Catnip playtime.
  • Has a soothing Purr when content.
 RagaMuffin Cat Breed on a nice summers day.

RagaMuffin Cat Health Problems

Ragamuffin cats are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Here are some common health problems to be aware of:


  1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) : A common heart condition in cats that causes thickening of the heart muscle, potentially leading to heart failure.

  2. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) : A genetic condition where fluid-filled cysts develop in the kidneys, affecting their function over time causing Kidney Disease.

  3. Obesity : Due to their larger size and easygoing nature, Ragamuffins are prone to Obesity if not given enough exercise and a proper diet.

  4. Dental Issues : Like all cats, Ragamuffins can suffer from dental disease, making regular dental care essential.

  5. Respiratory Infections : They can be susceptible to upper respiratory infections, particularly in catteries or multi-cat households.

  6. Allergies : Skin and food Allergies can develop, leading to itching, irritation, or digestive issues.

  7. Joint Issues : Being a larger breed, Ragamuffins may experience joint problems or arthritis as they age.

Regular veterinary checkups and a healthy lifestyle can help manage or prevent many of these health issues.

RagaMuffin Cat Personality

Known for its affectionate nature and friendly demeanor, the Ragamuffin cat is a beloved Cat Breed that enjoys going limp and relaxed when held, making it perfect for families. They adore human contact, including tummy rubs and cuddling sessions with any willing individual, not just their owners. This breed, often referred to as the “Velcro Cat,” gets along well with other pets and visitors, and can even be leash trained. Ragamuffins typically reach full maturity around four years old, maintaining their playful and fluffy kitten like qualities. They excel as lap cats and are known for their intelligence, patience, and ability to learn tricks like playing fetch.

RagaMuffin Cat on window ledge on a winters day.

RagaMuffin Cat Appearance

The Ragamuffin cat, a distinctive cat breed, boasts a large, muscular build with a rectangular body and broad chest. Their charming appearance includes large, walnut shaped eyes and moderately tufted ears. Sporting a semi long, silky coat in various color patterns, they often exhibit a ruff around the neck, a plumed tail, and tufts between the toes. This breed, often compared to the Ragdoll Cat and Persian Cat, matures fully around one year of age, showcasing their beautiful blue green eyes and lengthy, flowing fur.

Breed Rating

Family Friendly

5/5

Playfulness

4/5

Intelligence

4/5

Likes Other Pets

4/5

Grooming Needs

5/5

Shedding

3/5

Vocalize

1/5

History and Origins

The RagaMuffin breed, closely linked to the Ragdoll, originated from efforts to introduce new color patterns and widen the gene pool. Ann Baker, the Ragdoll breed's founder, tightly controlled its development, prompting breeders to create a distinct breed. By outcrossing with Himalayans, Persians, and other domestic longhairs, they crafted a large, semi long-haired cat with a variety of coat colors. Despite their diverse appearances, RagaMuffins are known for their relaxed nature a hallmark of their laid back and easygoing attitude toward life, making them ideal as family pets that crave attention and enjoy interacting with humans.

Outdoors or Indoors

The RagaMuffin cat appreciates supervised outdoor time in a secure garden or cat run, showcasing its varied coat patterns and colors. This breed, influenced by Ann Baker and originating from Ragdoll ancestry, is known for its relaxed demeanor and large, round physique. However, due to their trusting nature and love for human interaction, they are best kept as Indoor Cats to ensure their safety and longevity. RagaMuffins thrive as indoor pets, enjoying attention and forming strong bonds with their human families.

Enrichment and Special Requirements

To keep your RagaMuffin active, incorporate a Automatic Cat Feeding Station and Puzzle Feeders into their daily routine, using these to dispense part of their daily cat food ration. It's important to avoid free feeding, as RagaMuffins have a tendency to overeat due to their fondness for food.


Ensure your home has cat trees, cosy spots, and sunny areas where they can leisurely bask in the sun or find warmth during colder weather. Engage them daily in interactive games with small toys or play with "toys on strings" like Cat Wand Toy, or Cat Fishing Rod Toy to encourage movement and maintain their health. Despite their placid nature, Ragamuffins benefit from regular exercise to stay fit and healthy and avoid health problems.

Nutrition and Feeding

Each cat has its own unique preferences and nutritional requirements when it comes to food. As obligate carnivores, cats require 41 specific nutrients from their diet, with the proportions varying based on factors such as age, activity level, and overall health. For instance, a growing, energetic kitten needs a different nutrient balance compared to a less active senior cat.


It's crucial to feed cats the appropriate quantity of food to maintain their "ideal body condition," following feeding guidelines tailored to their specific needs. Additionally, respecting individual preferences for wet or dry food is important.


Find out more about Cat Nutrition with our article.

RagaMuffin cat with young owner.

Grooming your RagaMuffin Cat

Maintaining a RagaMuffin's coat requires a few minutes of Grooming daily, typically manageable due to its tangle resistant texture. This daily ritual not only helps keep the coat in good condition but also provides an opportunity to bond with your cat and inspect for any minor wounds or signs of parasites.


Keep in mind that a greasy coat may indicate that your cat is neglecting grooming, which could signal underlying health issues or obesity. Like all cats, Ragamuffins benefit from regular Vaccinations, Flea Control Measures, and annual veterinary check ups to ensure their ongoing health and well being.

Family Life Compatibility

The RagaMuffin's extremely laid back nature often finds them lounging horizontally most of the time. While this makes them exceptionally tolerant and well suited for a bustling household, it's crucial to ensure children treat them with respect and kindness. With proper care, including regular playtime and grooming sessions, the RagaMuffin becomes an excellent companion for any family setting.

Rehoming a RagaMuffin Cat

RagaMuffins are rarely found in rescue shelters, but occasionally, one may be available for adoption. They are considered ideal pets for any household however, their need for companionship makes them less suitable for busy individuals who are away from home for extended periods. While not overly demanding, RagaMuffins thrive on companionship and may become stressed or unwell if left alone for prolonged periods. When considering adoption, it's essential to consult with the adoption organization for insights into a specific cat's temperament and needs.

RagaMuffin Adult Male.

RagaMuffin Cats Fun Facts

  • They Go Limp When Held : Similar to Ragdolls, Ragamuffins tend to go completely limp when picked up, making them feel like a soft, floppy toy in your arms.

  • Chameleon-Like Coat Colors : Ragamuffin kittens are often born with one color but may change as they grow, with their coat colors and patterns evolving over time.

  • Born to be Cuddled : Unlike many independent cats, Ragamuffins often seek out hugs and will happily let you hold them for extended periods.

  • Hypnotic, Walnut-Shaped Eyes : Their large, round eyes are mesmerizing and come in almost any color, often giving them a uniquely expressive, almost human-like gaze.

  • Forever Kittens : Although they grow into large cats, Ragamuffins retain a kitten-like personality throughout their lives, remaining playful and curious even in their senior years.

FAQ

What is a Ragamuffin cat?

A Ragamuffin cat is a large, affectionate, and gentle breed known for its luxurious, soft, and plush coat. They have a dog-like personality, often following their owners around the house and enjoying interactive play. Ragamuffins are highly sociable and thrive on companionship, making them great family pets. They are known for their striking, large, walnut-shaped eyes and come in a variety of coat colors and patterns. Despite their fluffy appearance, their coats are surprisingly low-maintenance and don’t mat easily. Ragamuffins are also known for being calm and tolerant, making them ideal companions for both children and other pets.

What are the characteristics of a Ragamuffin cat?

The Ragamuffin cat characteristics make this breed truly special and appealing to many cat lovers. Ragamuffins are known for their large size, with males often reaching up to 20 pounds, and their soft, plush coats that come in various colors and patterns. Despite their fluffy appearance, their fur is surprisingly easy to care for and resistant to matting. These cats are extremely affectionate and gentle, often described as having a "teddy bear" personality. They thrive on human companionship and are highly sociable, making them excellent family pets. Ragamuffins are also playful and curious, yet calm and tolerant, making them great with children and other pets. Their large, expressive eyes and tendency to go limp when held add to their unique charm, while their easygoing and patient nature makes them ideal for a relaxed home environment.

Where can i find a Ragamuffin cat for sale?

If you're looking to find a Ragamuffin cat for sale, there are several options to explore. The best place to start is by researching reputable breeders who specialize in Ragamuffin cats. Many breeders have websites or social media pages where you can learn about available kittens, upcoming litters, and their breeding practices. Make sure to choose a breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their cats, providing proper care and socialization. Another option is to check with local or national Ragamuffin cat associations, which often have breeder directories. Additionally, some Ragamuffin cats may be available for adoption through cat rescues or breed-specific rescue organizations. 

Which cat should i choose RagaMuffin or Ragdoll?

When deciding between a Ragamuffin or a Ragdoll, it’s essential to understand the differences and similarities between these two wonderful breeds. In the debate of Ragamuffin Cat vs Ragdoll, both are large, affectionate, and known for their calm, loving nature. However, there are subtle distinctions. Ragamuffins tend to have a wider variety of coat colors and patterns, and their coats, though fluffy, are typically easier to maintain as they resist matting. Ragdolls, on the other hand, have a more limited range of colors, primarily in pointed patterns, and are known for their striking blue eyes. Both breeds are known for their tendency to go limp when held, making them great lap cats. Personality-wise, both are equally affectionate and bond deeply with their families, but Ragamuffins may be a bit more social and playful, while Ragdolls are often slightly more reserved and laid-back. Ultimately, choosing between a Ragamuffin or Ragdoll depends on your preference for coat variety and activity levels, but both make fantastic companions for a loving home.

Which cat breeds are related to the RagaMuffin Cats?

This cat breed is closely related to several other Cat Breeds, most notably the Ragdoll, from which they originally descended. In the 1990s, breeders sought to create a cat with similar traits to the Ragdoll but with more diverse coat colors and patterns, leading to the development of the Ragamuffin breed. Due to this shared lineage, Ragamuffins and Ragdolls have similar characteristics, such as their affectionate, calm demeanor and tendency to go limp when held. Additionally, Ragamuffin cats share characteristics with other large, friendly breeds like the Maine Coon and Norwegian Forest Cat , known for their size, gentle nature, and plush coats. While Ragamuffins are a distinct breed today, their origin is firmly linked to the Ragdoll, making them part of the same broader family of gentle giants.

What two breeds make a ragamuffin?

The Ragamuffin cat breed was primarily developed from Ragdolls and various domestic long-haired cats , including breeds like Persians and Himalayans . Breeders initially crossed Ragdolls with these domestic long-haired cats to introduce more coat color and pattern variety, while maintaining the Ragdoll's affectionate and calm temperament. This mix of breeds gave the Ragamuffin its distinctive plush coat, diverse appearance, and loving personality.

What are Ragamuffin cats like?

Ragamuffin cats are known for their affectionate, gentle, and friendly nature, making them wonderful companions. They have a laid-back temperament and are often described as "teddy bears" due to their love of cuddling and their tendency to go limp when held. These cats are highly social, thriving on attention from their owners, and they enjoy being part of family activities. Despite their calm demeanor, Ragamuffins are playful and curious, engaging in interactive games and exploring their surroundings. Their large, expressive eyes and plush, luxurious coats add to their charm. Ragamuffins are also great with children and other pets, making them ideal for families or anyone looking for a loving, loyal feline friend.

Difference between ragamuffins and ragdolls?

The differences between Ragamuffins and Ragdolls primarily revolve around their appearance and personality traits , though they share a common ancestry. One of the main distinctions is in their coat variety . Ragamuffins come in a broader range of colors and patterns, including solids, calicos, and tabbies, while Ragdolls are generally limited to pointed patterns (darker color on the face, ears, paws, and tail) with specific colors such as seal, blue, and chocolate. Another notable difference is in their eye color : Ragdolls typically have striking blue eyes, whereas Ragamuffins can have eyes in a variety of shades, including green, amber, and blue. Personality-wise, both are affectionate and easygoing, but Ragamuffins tend to be more social and playful, often interacting more actively with their families. Ragdolls, on the other hand, may be slightly more reserved and laid-back. Despite these differences, both breeds make excellent companions due to their loving and gentle nature.

Kelly Rushton with her cat Eddie

Kelly Rushton

Meet Kelly Rushton, a dedicated cat enthusiast and proud owner of Feline Fancy Ltd. With a heart as big as her household, Kelly is the loving mum to 10 charming Ragdoll cats. In her world, felines reign supreme, and she brings professionalism and warmth to everything she does. Through her blog, Kelly shares her wealth of knowledge and experiences, offering insights into cat care, behavior, and the joy of living alongside these majestic creatures.


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