Ragamuffin

The Ragamuffin cat is a domestic breed known for its friendly personality and cuddly appearance. Originating from the Ragdoll breed, the Ragamuffin shares many qualities with its ancestor. These include a gentle disposition and a preference for being close to their human companions.

These cats have a large, robust body and a long, plush coat that adds to their charm.

Ragamuffins are often seen as ideal family pets because they typically get along well with children and other animals. Their easygoing nature means they can adapt to various living situations as long as they have companionship and love.

Despite their size, these cats carry themselves with an endearing sweetness, often seeking out laps to curl up in and hands to pet them.

They are large cats that seem even bigger thanks to their dense, luxurious fur. With large, expressive eyes and a sweet facial expression, Ragamuffins are not just about looks; they also have robust health. These characteristics make them a favored breed among cat enthusiasts looking for a sociable and affectionate addition to the family.

History and Origins

The Ragamuffin cat is a charming and relatively new feline breed, renowned for its affable nature and plush coat. It emerged in the United States, inheriting the Ragdoll’s amiable traits with an added diversity in colors and patterns.

Development of the Breed

Breeders aimed to blend the docile nature of the Ragdoll with a richer variety of coat colors. In the 1990s, they succeeded, using IRCA Cherubim Cats as their base. The breeding period spanned from 1971 to 1994. This meticulous development process gave birth to the Ragamuffin—distinct yet closely related to the Ragdolls from which they descended.

Recognition by Associations

Over time, the major cat associations recognized ragamuffins, giving them a place in the world of pedigreed cats.

Their acceptance into the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) occurred in 2003, but they only gained full championship status in 2011. This marked their official debut as a breed that can compete and be judged in cat shows, solidifying their position in the feline hierarchy.

Characteristics

The Ragamuffin is known for their distinctive physical appearance and endearing personality that captures the heart of many cat enthusiasts.

Physical Attributes

Ragamuffins are large, long-bodied cats with a muscular and sturdy build. They feature a broad chest and wide shoulders that contribute to their rectangular shape.

Adult individuals generally weigh between 10 and 15 pounds and range in height from 9 to 11 inches. The breed often has a fatty pad on the lower abdomen, which is a breed-specific trait.

Here are some of the key physical attributes of the Ragamuffin:

• Coat: They boast a silky, plush semi-long coat that can come in a variety of colors and patterns.
• Eyes: Their large, expressive eyes can be any color, regardless of the coat.
• Face: A ruff of fur frames a sweet, gentle expression on it.

Personality Traits

Ragamuffin cats possess a sweet, friendly personality. They’re often described as relaxed and affectionate, earning them the nickname “Velcro cats” due to their tendency to stick close to their owners.

Not only are they fond of cuddling, but they’re also playful and intelligent, requiring interactive exercise to stay engaged and content.

Some personality traits that are commonly seen in Ragamuffins include:

• Affectionate and sweet-natured, they revel in attention from their owners and even from guests.
• Intelligent and playful, they benefit from interactive playtime and mental stimulation.

Care and Maintenance

Taking care of a Ragamuffin cat involves specific grooming practices, attention to their health needs, and providing proper diet and nutrition. This section will guide you through the essentials of maintaining the wellbeing of these affectionate felines.

Grooming Needs

Ragamuffin cats boast a luxurious coat that requires regular grooming. Owners should brush their cat’s fur several times a week to prevent mats and tangles. They may find the coat doesn’t mat as easily as other long-haired breeds.

It’s also good practice to keep their nails trimmed and to check their ears regularly for signs of dirt buildup or infection.

Health Considerations

These cats are generally healthy, but they can be prone to certain hereditary conditions, like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which owners should monitor for.

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to ensure they live a long and healthy life, usually ranging from 8 to 13 years. It’s important to stay up-to-date with vaccinations and preventative care.

Diet and Nutrition

Ragamuffin cats do not have unique dietary needs, but they thrive on a balanced, high-protein, and low-carbohydrate diet.

High-quality commercial foods with real meat or fish as the main ingredient are recommended to maintain their health and prevent obesity. Consistent access to fresh water and measured food portions will support their dietary wellbeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section answers common inquiries about RagaMuffin cats, providing insights into their cost, traits, size, colors, authenticity, and affection levels.