The RagaMuffin is a big fluffy teddy bear of a cat that is mellow and loving. If you are seeking a sweet feline that loves to cuddle, you can't go wrong with the perpetually happy RagaMuffin.
The Origins of the RagaMuffin Cat
The RagaMuffin was formed from the Ragdoll breed in an attempt to create a cat with more genetic diversity, a larger size and a greater range of color combinations. The Ragdoll was outcrossed with Persian cats, Himalayans and some domestic longhairs in the 1990s to create the breed we know today. The breed was recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association in 2003 and in 2011 achieved full championship status.
Difference Between the RagaMuffin and Ragdoll Cat
Since the RagaMuffin developed from the Ragdoll breed, there are many similarities between the two. Ragdolls only come in colorpoint, mitted and bicolor patterns and have blue eyes. RagaMuffins can come in any solid coat color or color pattern and all eye colors. Their facial structure differs in that Ragdoll has more oval-shaped eyes and a head that's not quite as big and round. Both are large size cats, weighing up to 15 pounds for females and 20 for males, although some RagaMuffin males can be larger. They have similar personalities as well and both are known for hanging "like a ragdoll" in your arms.
RagaMuffin Cat Physical Characteristics
The RagaMuffin is a medium-to-large size cat. Females are smaller than males, weighing around 10 to 15 pounds while males are around 10 to 20 pounds plus. They have muscular bodies with a rounded head and ears and a short face. They are known for their big eyes and they can be any color. They also are known to have a fatty pad on their belly. Their tail is long and plumed. The RagaMuffin takes their time to reach maturity and on average will get to their full size after about four years.
The RagaMuffin Cat Coat
RagaMuffins have either a medium or long coat with a ruff around the neck and fur on their paws and around the ears. Their fur should feel thick, fluffy and soft, which makes them eminently cuddly. They can be any color and color pattern other than pointed colors except for mink. RagaMuffins are all born white and will slowly show change their coat color as they age. Despite their thick coat, it's actually easy to care. They need to be brushed or combed about once a week to keep them mat-free and clean with healthy skin.
Personality of the RagaMuffin Cat
The RagaMuffin is an absolute lovebug of a cat. They are also very gentle and relaxed. They're a great choice for a family with young children or a single adult who wants a devoted companion who loves to snuggle. They are intelligent and are known to be a good breed to teach tricks and other behaviors using clicker training. RagaMuffins also have a reputation for being good companions with other cats, dogs and even small pets and birds. Because they are such a gentle cat, they are safest living as an indoor-only cat.
RagaMuffin Cat Health
RagaMuffins are generally healthy cats who have a lifespan of around 12 to 14 years. There are a few health problems they are prone to.
- Obesity is a concern as they are large cats with a medium level of energy, so it's important to watch their diet.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a disease involving the heart muscles and a responsible breeder will test their cats for HCM before breeding.
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a serious condition leading to kidney failure and breeders should test their cats to make sure they will not pass on the PKD gene to their kittens.
How to Get a RagaMuffin Cat
You can find breeders through the RagaMuffin Associated Group, the Cat Fanciers Association website and breeder directory for the American Cat Fanciers Association. Kittens will cost around $800 to $1,000.
Rescuing a RagaMuffin Cat
The RagaMuffin Associated Group has a page on their website which lists RagaMuffins up for adoption around the United States. You can also use the Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet websites to search for one in a local rescue or shelter. You can also search for Ragdoll rescues as many of these take in RagaMuffins as well. Breeders are also a good source of possible cats needing homes.
Is the RagaMuffin the Right Cat For You?
If a sweet, calm feline friend is your dream cat, the RagaMuffins is definitely a choice to consider. These cats are excellent with small children, adults and seniors and even make great therapy cats. While they have a thick coat, they don't have excessive grooming needs and can be a good option for a busy family that wants a loving cat but not one with too many specific care needs.
