A Ragamuffin cat
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

longhair

Ragamuffin

Origin: California, USA

A gentle giant with the temperament of a teddy bear. Ragamuffins are one of the most docile and affectionate breeds, renowned for going completely limp when cuddled.

Origin
California, USA
Category
longhair
Lifespan
12–16 yrs
Size
Large
Weight
4.5–9 kg
Coat
Long, thick, rabbit-fur-like texture
Colours
All colours and patterns

😺 Temperament

DocileSweetGentlePatient

🏡 Best suited to

Families with childrenApartment livingSeniorsFirst-time owners

📊 Personality ratings

Activity level 2/5
Grooming needs 3/5
Friendliness 5/5
Vocality 2/5
Intelligence 3/5

📜 History & origin

The Ragamuffin is closely related to the Ragdoll, developed in the 1990s when a group of breeders who disagreed with the Ragdoll founder's strict breeding rules created their own variety. They introduced other breeds to add genetic diversity, resulting in a wider range of coat colours and patterns. The Ragamuffin was recognised by the CFA in 2003.

🧼 Care & grooming

Weekly brushing prevents matting in their thick coat. They are very trusting and must be kept indoors. Like Ragdolls, they are slow to mature (4 years). They are excellent with children and tolerate being dressed up or carried without protest — a testament to their extraordinary patience.

🩺 Health notes

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) and Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) are the primary concerns. Some lines may have inherited Ragdoll health predispositions. Screen breeders for cardiac testing. Generally long-lived when kept as indoor cats.

Fun fact: Ragamuffins are known to go completely limp in their owner's arms — earning them the informal title of the 'most huggable cat breed'.

📸 Ragamuffin photos

Photographs from Wikimedia Commons, used under their respective licences.