Ragamuffin
The Ragamuffin is a large, plush, longhaired cat closely related to the Ragdoll - created in 1994 when a group of Ragdoll breeders broke away from the founding registry to expand colour options and broaden the gene pool.
🗓️ Last reviewed: June 2026
Overview
The Ragamuffin is a large, plush, longhaired cat closely related to the Ragdoll - created in 1994 when a group of Ragdoll breeders broke away from the founding registry to expand colour options and broaden the gene pool. The breed shares the Ragdoll's docile temperament with a wider colour palette and a more substantial build.
History & Origins
The split from Ragdoll occurred over trademark and registry disputes in 1994. Breeders outcrossed to Persians, domestic longhairs, and Himalayans to expand genetic diversity. CFA recognition came in 2011.
Appearance
Large, plush. Adults weigh 4.5-9 kg (10-20 lb). Slow-maturing - full size by age 4.
- Coat: medium-long, soft, dense, with feathering.
- Colour: any colour and pattern - solid, tabby, parti-colour, bicolour, calico, pointed.
- Eyes: large, walnut-shaped, any colour.
- Body: heavy, broad-chested, with a fatty pad on the lower abdomen.
Temperament & Character
Docile, sweet, affectionate. The Ragamuffin shares the Ragdoll's tendency to go limp when held. Excellent with children and other pets. Not a defensive cat - strictly indoor.
Care
Coat & Grooming
2-3 times weekly brushing. Less matting than Persians thanks to plush single-layered coat.
Health & Lifespan
12-16 years.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
- Polycystic kidney disease.
- Obesity.
Pros & Cons
Pros: docile, family-tolerant, broader colour range than Ragdoll. Cons: large; strictly indoor; HCM/PKD risks.
Ragamuffin - frequently asked questions
Ragamuffin vs Ragdoll?
Very similar in temperament. Ragamuffin has broader colour range, slightly heavier build, and walnut-shaped eyes (Ragdoll has only blue oval eyes). Ragamuffin lacks the strict colour standards of Ragdoll.
🧠 Test yourself: guess the cat
Three clues from our quiz bank, each about another of our cats. Can you name them?
Clue 1.Looking like a miniature leopard, this energetic, muscular cat has bold rosettes or marbling and a love of climbing and play.
It's the Bengal - read the full profile →
Clue 2.This large cat from eastern Turkey is unusual for enjoying water, and its body is mostly white with colored markings only on head and tail.
It's the Turkish Van - read the full profile →
Clue 3.With huge upright ears and long legs, this exotic breed can leap roughly eight feet into the air.
It's the Savannah - read the full profile →
💛 Adoptable Ragamuffins near you
Real cats of this breed (and close mixes) waiting in shelters and rescues right now, live from Petfinder. We have no affiliation and earn nothing - if someone catches your eye, the link goes straight to their shelter. New to adopting? Start with our adoption guide.
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