Don’t confuse the longhaired Ragamuffin with his cousin the Ragdoll. The two are separate breeds, although they are similar in temperament and appearance. Large and affectionate, this is a classic lap cat who loves being cuddled. The Ragamuffin is a big kitty who comes in more colors and patterns than the Ragdoll, although not all of them are accepted by every cat breed association.
Did You Know the Ragamuffin Has an Outgoing Nature?
The name “Ragamuffin” was originally a joke made by one of the breed’s founders. It stuck when the original registry couldn’t be changed.
Don’t confuse the Ragamuffin with his cousin the Ragdoll. The two are separate breeds, although little is known about the development of the Ragamuffin. He was probably created by crossing longhaired breeds such as Turkish Angoras, Persians, Birmans and longhaired domestic cats.
The Ragamuffin might as well be lined with Velcro. He follows his people wherever they go and greets guests at the door with a happy meow. Expect to see him participating in a little girl’s tea party, fetchingly dressed in a pretty bonnet. With his outgoing nature, he can make a good travel companion and can even learn to walk on a leash.
His silky coat is easy to groom. Comb it once or twice a week to prevent or remove any mats or tangles. Be gentle, and with his accepting personality, he’ll enjoy the special attention. Like all cats, the Ragamuffin’s coat sheds, but not excessively. Ask if your Ragamuffin has any Persian ancestry. This could cause his coat to mat more easily.
The only other grooming he needs is regular nail trimming and ear cleaning (with cotton balls and a vet-recommended ear cleaning solution). It’s also a good idea to brush his teeth regularly with a vet-approved pet toothpaste. This breed is prone to periodontal disease.
The Ragamuffin weighs between 10 and 20 pounds and is well suited to any home with people who will love him and give his gorgeous coat a weekly combing. Keep him indoors to protect him from cars, diseases spread by other cats and attacks from other animals. The breed usually lives for 13 or more years.
