- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
The RagaMuffin cat, often called the “teddy bear” of the cat world, is beloved for their cuddly, friendly nature and laid-back charm.
Though frequently compared to Ragdoll cats, RagaMuffins stand out with their wide range of coat colors, unlike the strict colorpoint patterns of Ragdolls. They also have large, round eyes, compared to the angled eyes of Ragdolls.
Ragamuffins are affectionate, fluffy, easygoing, and low-to-moderately energetic, says Sara Thornton, a breeder at iCandy RagaMuffins.
Could a RagaMuffin be the perfect fit for your life? Let’s explore this delightful breed!
RagaMuffin Breed Overview
- Origin: United States
- Personality: docile, affectionate, people-oriented, relaxed
- Weight: males up to 20 pounds, females up to 15 pounds
- Coat Length: Medium to medium-long
- Coat Color: All colors (except pointed) are allowable, including seal, chocolate, blue, lilac, mink, sable, black, red, silver, shaded, smoke, cameo, and cream.
- Coat Patterns: Every pattern is allowable, including solid color, bi-color, striped, spotted, tabby, and tortie.
- Grooming: Moderate (requires regular brushing)
- Eye Color: All eye colors, including odd-eyed
- Lifespan: 12-16 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Good with other cats: Yes
- Good with dogs: Yes
- Good with kids: Yes
RagaMuffin Appearance
The RagaMuffin is a medium to large cat with a solid build and an ultra-plush, huggable appearance. Their sweet expression is highlighted by big, walnut-shaped eyes and puffy cheeks.
Their silky, dense semi-long coat features a stately ruff around the neck and face, paired with a bushy tail. RagaMuffins come in a wide range of colors and patterns.
This breed takes up to four years to fully mature. Males typically weigh up to 20 pounds, and females up to 15 pounds—slightly smaller than Maine Coons.
RagaMuffin History
In the 1990s, a group of breeders split from Ann Baker, the founder of the Ragdoll breed, to create a new cat that kept the Ragdoll’s affectionate nature and long fur but allowed for more breeding flexibility.
One founder named the breed “RagaMuffin,” with their distinctive uppercase “M.” This playful spelling highlights the breed’s fluffy charm and sets them apart from Ragdolls.
The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognized the breed in 2003, granting it championship status in 2011.
RagaMuffin Pros & Cons
RagaMuffins are great cats, but their personality won’t fit everyone’s lifestyle. Consider these pros and cons when deciding if they’re right for you.
Pros
- Affectionate personality: If you’re looking for a cuddly lap cat who follows you everywhere, the RagaMuffin’s sweet devotion could make them a perfect match.
- Good family pets: Most RagaMuffins get along well with children and other pets. Their adaptable attitude helps them fit into all different households.
- Eager to please: RagaMuffins are responsive and willing to learn. Often, you can train them to walk on a leash or play fetch.
- Ideal for folks who want a low-maintenance cat: The RagaMuffin’s less active demeanor and easy coat care could make them a good fit for seniors or people with mobility issues.
- Extremely playful: RagaMuffins are playful and enjoy interactive games like fetch and chasing laser pointers. Always ready for a belly rub, these kitties enjoy participating in all household activities.
Cons
- Rarity: Thornton points out that because RagaMuffins are a rare breed, you can run into issues with “backyard breeders” and misrepresented cats being sold as RagaMuffins.
- High social needs: RagaMuffins don’t do well in isolation, and if left alone for long periods, they can become stressed.
- They can be a target for bullies: RagaMuffins are naturally trusting, so be careful putting them with more dominant pets.
RagaMuffin Grooming & Care
Despite their long fur, RagaMuffins’ coats resist tangling and matting, so daily grooming isn’t needed. Instead, Thornton says a weekly comb through is enough. She recommends a long-toothed comb to remove dead hair and debris.
General care includes weekly teeth brushing to prevent periodontal disease, nail trimming every few weeks, and routine eye cleaning with a cat-safe wipe to clear any discharge.
RagaMuffin Health
While RagaMuffins are generally healthy thanks to their diverse genetic background, they can be prone to certain hereditary conditions. Key health concerns include:
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): A common heart condition in cats where the heart muscle thickens, potentially leading to heart failure. Regular echocardiograms can help detect this condition early, especially in breeding cats.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A genetic disorder that causes fluid-filled cysts to develop in the kidneys, which may lead to kidney failure over time. Genetic testing can identify carriers of this condition.
- Obesity: RagaMuffins have a hearty appetite and may gain weight if overfed or not active enough. Maintaining a healthy diet and encouraging playtime are essential.
RagaMuffin Diet & Nutrition
RagaMuffins are a larger breed with hearty appetites, which can sometimes lead to overeating and weight gain if not carefully managed. To prevent obesity and keep your cat healthy, it’s important to provide a balanced diet with the right portion sizes.
Measure your RagaMuffin’s food and avoid free-feeding. Your vet can help determine the appropriate portion sizes based on your cat’s age, activity level, and overall health.
Look for high-protein cat food to support your RagaMuffin’s muscle mass and energy needs. Additionally, healthy fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are important for coat and joint health.
Lastly, while RagaMuffins enjoy treats, it’s important to offer them in moderation to avoid extra calories. Opt for healthy, low-calorie treats, and consider using them for training or bonding.
Getting a RagaMuffin
RagaMuffins are a rare cat breed, with only a limited number of breeders in the United States and Europe. You can find reputable breeders through the RagaMuffin Associated Group or the RagaMuffin Cat Fanciers, which maintain lists of dedicated breeders who follow ethical practices.
Since the breed is so rare, finding a true RagaMuffin cat at a shelter or rescue is unlikely. However, if you’re determined to adopt, check the RagaMuffin filter on PetFinder.com or ask your local shelters.
You can also use the CFA’s Find-A-Breeder to search for breeders in your area. On average, RagaMuffin kittens cost $1500.
8 Alternative Cat Breeds
If you admire the RagaMuffin’s sweet temperament and endearing nature, consider a few alternative breeds with similar dispositions.
- Ragdoll
- Maine Coon
- Birman
- Chartreux
- Himalayan
- Selkirk Rex
- Persian
- Burmese
Takeaway
The RagaMuffin is a friendly, affectionate breed known for its plush coat and gentle temperament. Ideal for families, they thrive on companionship and enjoy being around people and other pets.
With regular grooming, a balanced diet, and routine health checks, RagaMuffins make wonderful, low-maintenance companions. Their loving nature and playful personality make them a perfect fit for anyone looking for a cuddly feline friend.
