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Need to Know
- Great for first-time cat owners
- Enjoys playing games and is active at home
- Playful and curious cat
- Sociable and dependent cat
- Slightly talkative cat
- Larger cat breed
- Requires frequent grooming
- Needs indoor and outdoor space
- Great family cat
- Can be left alone all day
- Great for a relaxed home
Personality
Lovable Ragamuffin cats are the ultimate cuddle companions, known for going limp in your arms like a plush toy. They might not be the most energetic cats, but they adore playing with their favorite people and will even fetch a tossed toy before snuggling up in your lap for some quality cuddle time. These furballs greet you at the door and follow you like a shadow, ensuring they never miss a moment of your day.
While they’re not big talkers, Ragamuffins know how to make their voices heard when it matters—especially if their food dish is empty. They’re easygoing and adaptable, fitting into all kinds of households and environments. Whether it’s other cats, dogs, or well-behaved kids, Ragamuffins are generally great at getting along with everyone.
The Ragamuffin isn’t a new breed; it shares a history with the well-known Ragdoll Cat. Both breeds can trace their origins back to the Ragdoll’s early history. The Ragamuffin differs from the Ragdoll in having a wider variety of colors and a slightly different body type. The Ragdoll name was trademarked in 1971 by the breed’s founder. In 1975, some breeders split from this association and created a new breed named Ragamuffin.
The ideal owner for a Ragamuffin is someone who loves a cuddly, affectionate cat and enjoys having a loyal companion. These cats thrive on attention and are happiest when they’re part of the family action. If you’ve got a warm lap and a heart full of love, a Ragamuffin will be your loyal, fluffy shadow. They’re great with kids, other pets, and anyone ready to shower them with the love and care they deserve.
Encourage your Ragamuffin to stay active by using food-dispensing toys and puzzles for part of their daily meal. Avoid free-feeding, as these charming furballs can overeat. Set up cat trees, cozy nooks, and sunny spots because your Ragamuffin will adore basking in the sun or snuggling in a warm spot on chilly days. Add daily games like chasing small toys or playing with strings, and you’ll keep your Ragamuffin Cat happily on the move and in tip-top shape.
The Ragamuffin cat breed can handle some outdoor time and will enjoy being outside, but it should be in a secure yard under supervision or in a secure cat run. Their laid-back nature makes them unsuitable for unsupervised outdoor access; they might wander off and are a theft risk.
The Ragamuffin’s coat needs only a few minutes of grooming each day. Think of grooming time as a special bonding session where you can pamper your kitty.
Content+: Training To train a Ragamuffin, shower them with treats and praise for good behavior, turning each session into a mini celebration. Keep it short and fun—think of it as a game where you and your laid-back kitty team up to master new tricks together.
The Ragamuffin is laid back to the point of horizontal most of the time, making them an incredibly tolerant cat suitable for family life.
The cost of a Ragamuffin from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.
Learn more about feeding and caring for your Ragamuffin on Purina.
Did You Know?
- Some Ragamuffins have unique puppy-like qualities, such as playing fetch or greeting people at the door.
- The Ragamuffin cat’s calm and soothing demeanor makes them excellent therapy pets.