Ragamuffin Cat

How Did They Come About?

Ragamuffin cats were bred by combining Ragdolls with other longer haired domestic cat breeds. The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) gave the breed full championship status in 2011 and now it wows crowds in cat shows around the world.

Are They Large Cats?

This breed often has a broad and muscular build, although their size can vary. Generally males weigh 12 to 20lbs and females 8 to 15lbs. They are a medium to large-sized breed with a stocky body and substantial bone structure.

Coat Types and Colors

The Ragamuffin’s coat is one of its most striking features. With thick, medium-long hair, this is a cat with a very plush coat. It’s similar in feel to a rabbit’s fur and, despite its length, it is relatively low maintenance. This cool fur is unlikely to clump or mat, and is smooth and soft.

Ragamuffin coats come in all colors and patterns. There is a lot of variation within the breed – making them very unique. Some have white markings, while other coats are one solid color.

You can even have a black Ragamuffin cat, a white Ragamuffin cat and a black and white Ragamuffin cat all from the same litter. It’s also possible to have an orange Ragamuffin cat. Other coat colors include:

• Chocolate
• Lilac
• Fawn

Are They Allergy Friendly?

Although the Ragamuffin coat is pretty low maintenance, they are known to shed regularly. And, since they are medium to large cats with medium to long length fur, this can mean you end up with quite a lot of shed hair around your house!

Grooming can help you to keep on top of shedding, especially if you notice times when it is particularly heavy. Keeping up with regular grooming can also help to prevent hairballs.

Sadly, the Ragamuffin cat is not hypoallergenic. In fact, there is really no such thing as a hypoallergenic cat. The proteins that trigger cat allergies can be found in dander, urine, and saliva. So, all cats can cause allergy flare ups.

But, since this breed sheds frequently, and may spend a lot of time licking its fur before it sheds, the risk of allergy symptoms may be higher than for some other breeds. The best way to see if a Ragamuffin triggers your allergies is to spend time with them before bringing them home.

Do They Make Good Pets?

Ragamuffins are one of the most sweet-natured cat breeds. Thanks to their docile and cuddly personality, some call Ragamuffins teddy bear cats.

They love to shower their owners with affection, and get plenty of petting in return. This cat is perfect for someone that wants a pet to spend all of their time with. They will be happiest when they get to follow you around, content to be with you during any activity!

The ultimate people’s pets, they form strong bonds with their families. And are brilliant with children, being calm, patient and ready to play. And Ragamuffins are also generally fine with other animals.

They are also an intelligent breed that you can teach tricks to. Ragamuffins can learn to play ‘fetch’ and ‘beg’. They won’t suit homes that want to leave their cat alone for long periods. Ragamuffins thrive on company and need plenty of social interaction every single day.

A Question Of Safety

Given their trusting nature, some Ragamuffin cats are potentially at higher risk of being stolen or getting lost if they live outside. They will actively seek out companionship and affection, which could lead them towards less friendly characters, or cause misunderstandings about them already having a home. So, if you let your Ragamuffin outside, make sure they are microchipped and have a collar with your details on.

Alternatively, if you choose to keep them inside, make sure they are getting enough exercise and mental stimulation. Teaching them tricks and playing fun games with them is a great way to achieve this, but will consume a lot of your time!

Do They Have Health Problems?

The Ragamuffin cat is generally considered to be a healthy breed. But, unfortunately health issues can arise in any purebred cat. As standard, breeders should screen for Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). HCM causes the heart muscle to thicken and is the most common cause of heart disease in cats.

Ragamuffin Breeders

A reliable and trustworthy breeder will help you choose the best kitten for you, and provide details of its parentage, health history and needs. You should also be able to visit before purchasing and take the kitten to your own vet for a health check-up.

Avoid finding a kitten in pet stores, as these places often won’t health test their parent cats. Instead, choose reputable breeders that socialize and health test all kittens and parent cats.

Purchasing a pet is a big commitment, and sometimes it’s worth spending top dollar. If you see a price that’s too good to be true, it probably is. Less reputable breeders will try to sell you a bargain, without investing in the necessary health checks and pedigree certification.

Expect to pay around $800 to $1000 for a kitten, but much less for an adult. Ragamuffin cat price should include health certificates, up to date vaccinations and evidence of registered pedigree. It may also cover microchipping and a ‘starter pack’ of toys and food.

Bringing Home Your Kitten

Ragamuffin kittens are curious, playful, bundles of love. Before you bring your kitten home, it’s important to ensure you are bringing it into a safe, stress-free environment. Kitten-proof your house by moving all household cleaning products out of reach. Some Ragamuffins may learn to open cabinets so don’t store them at ground level!

Ensure all open windows are screened, and that the screens are secure. Safely store any electrical cords, and check that your houseplants are feline-friendly. Some plants, like lillies are dangerous to cats. When you’re ready to welcome your little furball, introduce them slowly to every member of the family. Supervise them when meeting other furry family members, at least until you are sure they have no issues.

What About Rescue?

If you’re looking for your own Ragamuffin, breeders aren’t the only option. There are also plenty of rescue centers out there with Ragamuffins looking for new homes. Rescue cats are often cheaper than kittens from breeders. But, you may know a little less about your chosen cat’s history or health. Even so, it can be a great way to bring home a loving pet, and to offer a wonderful cat a loving home.