Some cat breeds tend to be standoffish and you might not see them very often, unless you happen to cross paths in the middle of the night. That isn’t the case with the ragamuffin, however, because this cat is certainly a lover. In fact, they are perfectly at home when being held in your arms and you may find that tend to gravitate toward you anytime you are around. They are also quite docile, which makes them an excellent choice for a family cat.
As you might expect, the ragamuffin is closely related to the ragdoll, although there are some significant differences between the two. Breeders that were interested in the ragdoll wanted to introduce new characteristics to the breed in the way of patterns and colors. As a result of that selective breeding, a new group of cats came into existence and eventually, the ragamuffin found its way into our homes. The breeding was associated with Himalayans, Persians and a number of different long-haired domestic cats. They are a relative newcomer to the scene but they are quickly gaining ground in the way of popularity.
When it comes to the personality of the ragamuffin, it is very similar to their close cousin, the ragdoll. These cats are absolute lovers and they are willing to go out of their way to be with you and preferably, the be on your lap anytime you are around. You might also appreciate this breed, not only because they will grow close to you but because they are smart as a whip. In fact, if you are looking for a breed of cat to teach tricks, including walking on a leash or playing fetch, the ragamuffin will readily respond to that type of training.
It is likely that a ragamuffin is going to be a very healthy cat but there may be times when some genetic issues may show up in certain felines. It is always best if you have anything questionable checked by veterinarian as soon as it occurs. In addition, finding a quality breeder that is truly interested in the health of the kittens can go a long way in keeping your cat happy and healthy for life.
As is the case with most long-haired cats, it is best if you brush the coat on a weekly basis. Doing so will help to keep the tangles away and will limit the shedding, which can be a problem in some ragamuffins. You might also want to take their hygiene a step further by checking their ears on a weekly basis and doing any preventative maintenance according to the specific way it should be done for the breed. Even brushing their teeth on a daily basis can go a long way in helping to keep them healthy and happy.
A ragamuffin is an excellent breed for the family. They will greet you at the door like a puppy and are fantastic for visitors as well.