June 28, 2025 Back Home

Ragamuffin Cats: A Rare & Beautiful Cat Breed

Looking for a cuddly, calm, and utterly lovable feline companion? While any cat will surely do, we can’t think of a better cat breed for you than the Ragamuffin — also known as the RagaMuffin.

Known for their laid-back personalities and plush, bunny-soft coats, Ragamuffins are a great match for families, first-time cat parents, or anyone who wants a furry friend who loves to snuggle.

Perhaps the most huggable cat out there — aside from the Turkish Angora of course — Ragamuffins are pretty much universally loved for their laid back nature, however their lineage is not quite as extensive as some of the other cat breeds we’ve featured.

Here’s everything you need to know about the origin of these gentle giants.

The Recent History of Ragamuffin cats

The Ragamuffin cat might be a relatively new face in the cat world, but its roots are intertwined with another beloved breed: the Ragdoll.

The general consensus in the cat world is that this breed came about in the 1990s when a group of Ragdoll breeders in the United States wanted to expand the gene pool and develop a cat with similar qualities but greater variety in color and appearance.

Enter the Ragamuffin — a loving, people-oriented cat with a look and personality all its own.

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A Big, Beautiful, and Huggable Cat

Ragamuffins are large, muscular cats with soft curves and a charmingly plush appearance. They are legit little teddy bears.

These guys have a long body and often sport a little belly pouch affectionately known as the “Buddha belly.”

Their medium to long coat is silky and thick, but it resists matting, making grooming a breeze. The head features sweet, full cheeks with big, walnut-shaped eyes that glow from gold to green.

Great listeners, Ragamuffins also have ears that are medium-sized and rounded, and their bushy tail adds to their luxuriously soft silhouette.

One of the most exciting things about Ragamuffins is their incredible color range. Thanks to their mixed ancestry, these cats come in many colors and patterns.

Gentle Giants with Giant Hearts

If you haven’t already figured it out, Ragamuffins are known for being sweet, mellow, and people-focused. Their affectionate nature makes them ideal for just about any household setup.

Like all cats, well most of them, they love cuddling and being with you.

Calm and tolerant, they are known for being good with children and other animals. These are the cats that will follow you from room to room, sit beside you during movie night, and curl up on your chest as you read a book.

@mimi.the.muffin just kidding (kind of) #cute #ragamuffin #boyfriend #ragamuffincat #fluffy #fyp @Nick Pichaiwongse ♬ this blew up jeezz – ❯❯❯❯❯

Laid-Back, But Not Lazy

Ragamuffins often go limp when picked up, just like their Ragdoll cousins. So, if you’re looking for a cat that you can cradle like a baby, this is the one.

While not high-energy like a Bengal or Siamese, the Ragamuffin enjoys interactive play and puzzles that stimulate their mind. They’re curious but not demanding, playful but not exhausting.

But just like all felines, they also love cat naps.

When it comes to their overall health, Ragamuffins require the same standard care for all cats, including regular grooming, proper meal planning, annual vet visits and more.

Like all cats, Ragamuffins can be prone to certain health issues such as Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): A common heart disease in cats, and kidney disease.

Vital Stats About Ragamuffin Cats

Trait	Details
Average Weight	10-20 pounds (females are usually smaller)
Height	10-15 inches
Length	Up to 33 inches (excluding tail)
Lifespan	12–18 years, sometimes even longer
Origin	United States
Temperament	Gentle, affectionate, friendly
Energy Level	Moderate – loves to play and chill

Is a ragamuffin Right for You?

Yes.

If you’re looking for a cat that’s affectionate, gorgeous, and has a heart of gold, the Ragamuffin just might steal yours. Their relaxed nature, beautiful appearance, and loving personality make them one of the most rewarding companions in the cat world.

Whether you’re curled up on the couch, working from home, or just looking for a best friend who won’t leave your side — Ragamuffins deliver the love, every single day.

Ragamuffin Care Tips

Grooming: Deceptively easy for such a fluffy cat. That thick, rabbit-soft coat resists matting — just a gentle brushing once or twice a week keeps things smooth.
Activity: Low to moderate energy. Ragamuffins aren’t marathon runners, but they love a good game of fetch or a lazy climb to a sunlit perch. Think cozy — not chaotic.
Health: Generally healthy with no breed-specific genetic issues, though weight gain can be a concern due to their easygoing nature. Keep treats in check and playtime on the calendar.

The Ragamuffin is comfort wrapped in fur.

Known for their sweet expressions, calm temperaments, and go-with-the-flow attitude, these cats are as cuddly as they are charismatic — bringing big-hearted charm and lap-loving loyalty to any home they grace.

Similar to other highly sought after cat breeds, adopting a Ragamuffin will require some research, as they are less common as domestic cats.