The Ragamuffin is a breed of domestic cat derived from crossing the Ragdoll.

Origin story

The appearance of these good-natured bumpkins in the arena of felinology is associated with a huge scandal.
And how well it all started... Ann Baker, a well-known cat lover in the city of Riverside, drew attention to the street cat Josephine, or rather, to her kittens. Each litter produced long-haired dogs with a very kind and quiet disposition, and all of them had different fathers.

The breeder, becoming interested, decided to consolidate these qualities in the new breed. The breed was called “Cherub” - “the highest angelic rank”, and Anne took personal control of all matings in the clubs. Her demands seemed absurd to many. Part, planning to breed cats with a different coat color, and coming up with the sonorous name “Ragdoll” for the new breed.

Anne did not like the rebellion. She quickly received a patent for the new name (this point was missed by her rivals) and tried to regain her leading position again. But it was not there. Many years of trials began, and the breed received a new name - Ragamuffin, which is translated from English as “tramp” or “ragamuffin”. Cats began to be crossed with Persians, Himalayan and outbred cats; in 1994, they were admitted to the first exhibitions and gradually earned recognition from some international organizations: UFO, ACFA, CFA.

It is worth clarifying that even now not all associations recognize ragamuffins as a separate breed, classifying them as ragdolls. But the World Cat Federation approved them, so there are no obstacles for animals to participate in competitions.

Pros and cons of the breed

Ragamuffins were bred to be ideal pets. However, such “angelic” cats also have disadvantages.

Ragamuffins - fluffy balls of kindness and affection

Table: pros and cons of the breed

Standards

Externally, Ragamuffins are very similar to Ragdolls: they are just as strong, muscular and large. Males weigh 10-11 kg, females – up to 7 kg. Cats develop physically by the age of 4-4.5 years. On the belly of an adult cat there is a layer of fat, soft and pleasant to the touch.

Individuals with the following defects are not allowed to participate in exhibition events:

• Having an extra finger(s);
• Strabismus;
• Tail with kinks;
• Short hair;
• Color point color.

How much does ragamuffin cost and where can I buy it?

In Russia this breed is poorly known and there is no professional breeding of it at all. The “ragdoll” can occasionally be found in nurseries that breed ragdolls.

Professional nurseries of this breed are located in the United States of America, Canada, Great Britain, Japan, and you can only buy a real “Raggedy” there.

When choosing a kitten, you should give preference to babies with bright eye color, thick, shiny and long hair. The chest should be rectangular, powerful and well developed, the back straight and level without prolapsed vertebrae, the tail long and evenly pubescent, the paws powerful with wide and strong pads.

The price of this pet, despite its uniqueness, is quite low, about sixty thousand Russian rubles. This is due to the fact that the breed is still recognized by a fairly narrow circle of felinological organizations.

Colors

Ragamuffins are allowed in many colors: sepia, mink, and striped. But the most common are the following:

• Tabby: the main color is any light. Bright contrasting spots of different sizes are scattered over the base.
• Bi-color: 2 primary colors.
• Color point: the color is exactly like that of Siamese cats (includes all shades of brown).

The standard allows for a small amount of white patches on the chest, back and belly.

In the photo there are cats of the Ragamuffin breed of the main colors: Tabby, Bi-color, Color point

About cat health

This breed, like Maine Coons, is resistant to diseases, but sometimes there are representatives who have inherited some diseases from their ancestors. These may be cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic and renal polycystic disease. Diseases are detected using a DNA test.

The breed often experiences an inflammatory process on the gums (periodontitis), which leads to the destruction of tooth enamel. To prevent this problem from occurring, you need to promptly clean the surface of your teeth with a special toothpaste. To ensure that the animal tolerates the procedure calmly, it is worth buying toothpaste with attractive aromas (for example, the smell of fish).

Representatives of this breed sometimes experience infections in the urinary system, which leads to pain during urination. In addition, your pet may begin to urinate in an unexpected place due to urinary incontinence.

Character and behavior

Ragamuffins are some of the most loyal human companions. Complaisant, good-natured, absolutely calm and good-natured - these words fully characterize the representatives of the breed. Their favorite pastime is to lounge imposingly at full length on an ottoman or windowsill and doze serenely, occasionally looking around. They are absolutely domestic: once they get outside, they can’t figure out what to do or where to run. Ragamuffins do not know how to defend themselves; at most, they will try to hide somewhere. They are frightened by loud noises, street hubbub and traffic, so walking the streets is absolutely unnecessary.

The gullibility of ragamuffins is amazing: they easily go into the arms of strangers and do not mind lying next to a guest and taking a treat from his hands.

Cats treat children calmly and steadfastly withstand their fun: they will sit in a doll's stroller and wear a doll's hat. If the child begins to offend him, he retreats under the sofa or asks the owners for intercession.

Ragamuffin loves “dad” and “mom” reverently, and endures separation extremely painfully. Therefore, careerists and avid travelers should avoid this breed: the cat will be sad and sick if you are not around. But for lonely, elderly people, this breed is a real gift.

The ragamuffin is friends with other animals, be it a dog, or a cat, or a rodent, or even a bird. But once a cat appears in a family, it takes a long time to get used to them, so it’s better to get one first.

According to folk wisdom, what should happen if a cat washes itself?

Receive a letter Guests will come

Ragamuffins are also phlegmatic (by the way, females remain playful with age, unlike males), but they are also not averse to playing. Running around before a hearty breakfast, fighting with an imaginary enemy or a sunbeam on the walls, rustling with a plastic bag is a nice thing for them. They have nothing against a playmate, but they also know how to have fun on their own.

Sometimes these games lead to sad results: torn curtains, knocked over flower pots. And it is better to stop such self-indulgence immediately. Cats are extremely intelligent and know how to obey. But do it gently, without rudeness and, moreover, without assault. Ragamuffin will perceive spanking as a betrayal.

Ragamuffins are not jumpers, that's a fact. At the very least, they will get off the chair, but jumping from cabinets often ends in injury. Therefore, the owner should take this point into account.

An interesting feature: ragamuffin relaxes in human hands, literally melts, like ice cream in the sun. This feature, by the way, is also noted in ragdolls.

Another characteristic characteristic of cats is curiosity, which should keep you on your guard at all times. The lazy-looking Ragamuffin loves to taste homemade flowers, lick cosmetics, rummage through the trash can, and poke his nose into an open bag of washing powder. And they not only unwind the balls, but also try to eat them.

Finding a Ragamuffin kitten is not that easy. Popular nurseries that breed them are located in South Korea, the USA, Europe and Canada. In Russia, you can only find ragdoll nurseries, in which, quite possibly, ragamuffins are also bred. The second option is private breeders. But this is a minus pedigree. Kittens “for the soul” will cost about 70-80 thousand rubles, animals for exhibitions - from 100 and above. Males are valued lower than female cats.

Features and upbringing

The temperament and behavioral reactions of the “Ragged Man” are admirable; the original name “Cherub” would have suited this animal better. Cats are simply ideal in terms of their level of love and affection for humans. They have a number of features that you should remember before purchasing them:

• Does not allow rivalry. If a new pet appears in the house, the “Ragged Man” will accept him favorably and even become friends. But at the same time, his role should remain dominant. The owner should remember this and always distinguish his furry friend from other animals. You should not bring a cat into a house where there are other pets; you need to give it time to get comfortable on its own and feel unity with its owner.

• There is absolutely no “hunter” gene. Apparently this is caused by a gene mutation when crossing different breed lines. This cat will quickly disappear on the street, simply die of hunger. If there is a small child in the house and you cannot keep him from “hunting” for the pet, then it is better to wait until the children grow up and are aware of their actions. The “ragamuffin” will never refuse to play with children, will sincerely love and protect them, but will not be able to stand up for himself. It allows you to do whatever you want with you - carry it in your arms, swaddle it, roll it in a stroller. The main thing is for children to understand that this is not a living toy, but a friend.

• Cats of this breed do not tolerate insults. They cannot be punished, their voices cannot be raised at them, and, moreover, physical violence must not be used. They are so devoted to a person that they fall into severe stress from grief.
• But most of all, “Ragged People” suffer from loneliness. Remember that your delicate pet should not be left alone for long. The animal may even die from longing for its owner.

In all other respects, these sweetest creatures will bring only joy to your home. Ideal for single people and close-knit families. Absolutely non-aggressive, highly intelligent and easy to train.

Care instructions

The undercoat of Ragamuffins is not thick and short, and they shed moderately. Therefore, you will not have such problems as, for example, with the Persians. However, a beautiful appearance requires work and your help.

Wool

You don’t have to be afraid of tangles: the structure of their fur is similar to that of a rabbit’s and practically does not mat. But you still need to comb your cat: once a week (during shedding - 2 times) with a special comb with long metal teeth. During the molting period - autumn and spring - more often.

The photo shows a cat of the Ragamuffin breed.

Bathing

Ragamuffins don’t particularly like water, but they will be quite indignant during bathing. Bathe them at least once a year, or better yet, once every six months. Plug your ears with cotton swabs, comb your fur coat, and make sure that moisture does not get into your ears (this provokes otitis media). Use special shampoos for cats: AVZ Elite Professional, Celandine, Doctor ZOO.

Claws

Nails - trim once every 1-2 weeks with nail clippers or manicure scissors, and then file. Still, you need a scratching post!

Teeth

Teeth are brushed 2 times a month. Good brands: Doctor ZOO, Trixie, Beaphar. You cannot use human brushes and toothpaste: fluoride is harmful to the cat’s body, and hard bristles will scratch delicate gums.

Expert opinion

Dusheba Vera Ivanovna

In 2010, she graduated from the Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine named after K.I. Scriabin with honors, specializing in veterinary medicine. I regularly attend veterinary conferences, congresses, and webinars.

Animals should be taught to brush from an early age. First use a cotton swab soaked in tooth gel, then buy a brush. You can wrap your finger in gauze, but only if the cat does not bite it.

Cat care and health

Although the ragamuffin's body build is not at all athletic, he plays with pleasure, runs after toys and climbs on a scratching post.

However, in general, these cats love to while away their days with the owner and his family. They greet you at the door, accompany you everywhere in your home, and are good friends with other animals and children.

Scientists have not identified any genetic diseases associated with this breed. However, it is necessary to find out from the breeder whether a certain cat has hereditary diseases in the pedigree.

Overall, these are healthy cats. The lifespan of a ragamuffin reaches up to 16 years. The most important thing is not to overfeed him.

Of course, these are lush and strong cats, but they do not have to be obese.

Therefore, it is more correct to feed the ragamuffin with ready-made food; otherwise, you will probably not think about the necessary and sufficient amount of vitamins and calories for it.

It is necessary to exclude fatty foods, beef, mealy and pasta products, and treats.

Although the Ragamuffin's fur is long, it does not tangle at all. Therefore, it is enough to comb your pet once a week.

It is better to clean your teeth every day in order to avoid the formation of periodontal disease. Clean the ears and eyes as they become clogged.

Catering

Ragamuffins, although lazy, are great eaters. Therefore, the owner will have to strictly control the portions given out and not allow the pet to “bite.”

There are two feeding options: special ready-made food or hand-cooked food. Each has both pros and cons.

Natural products

A balanced menu includes:

• Meat: beef, veal, rabbit, turkey (at least 30 grams for a kitten and 120 grams for an adult). There is no need to boil it, just pour boiling water over it. Give 3-4 times a week.
• Boiled liver, hearts, ventricles, minced chicken necks. Liver - no more than once a week. The rest - 2-3 times.
• Fish - only sea fish (trout, salmon, salmon, cod, trout) and no more than once a week (there is a risk of developing urolithiasis). It is allowed to feed the cat shrimp and squid from time to time.
• Fermented milk products (ryazhenka, natural yogurt, cream, kefir, sour cream, cottage cheese, cheese): low-fat, without harmful additives and dyes. Can be given every day.
• Liquid porridges: liquid, oatmeal, semolina, buckwheat, millet. Not with milk, but with water (semolina porridge with water is fed to kittens up to 3 months old). Be sure to add a few drops of vegetable oil to the prepared food.
• Eggs (chicken and quail) – a couple of times a week. From chicken - only the yolk and boiled.
• Boiled or stewed vegetables: cauliflower, carrots, green beans. Give 1-5 times a week, adding to porridge. Sprouted oats, wheat, barley, young nettle leaves (scalded with boiling water) are useful.
• Dry brewer's yeast and vitamins are given in agreement with the veterinarian.

It is prohibited to give:

• Poultry (goose, duck), also pork and lamb;
• Bones, fat, skin;
• Whole cow's milk;
• Salt, sugar, spices, seasonings, mayonnaise, sauces;
• Sweet, smoked, baked goods, flour, salty, fried;
• Human canned food, sausages, frankfurters, small sausages;
• Peas, soybeans, beans, grape potatoes, avocados, bananas;
• Vitamins and supplements for people.

The average cost of a ragamuffin kitten is 50,000 – 70,000 rubles. But this is in the USA. Add the cost of shipping and the reseller's commission.

Pictured are kittens of the Ragamuffin breed.

Recommended food

Natural food, objectively speaking, is better than any food. But in modern life it is not always convenient to cook every day, and sometimes it is difficult to find time. That’s when ready-made food comes to the rescue. There are 4 groups: economy, premium, super-premium and holistic.

Economy

Economy food groups Friskies, Whiskas, Perfect Fit are the cheapest, but also the most stupid. Behind general formulations such as “cereals and products of plant origin”, “meat and its derivatives”, “poultry meal”, protein-poor remains of meat production, corn and similar components are hidden. But what is there in abundance is flavor enhancers, dyes and preservatives of unknown origin.

Premium

Premium food: Safari, Flatazor, Royal Canin are a step higher, although in essence they are not far removed from economy food.

The word “meat” can hide any processed product (most often it is skin, tripe, and bones), vegetable proteins are used - wheat and corn (and they often cause allergies), antioxidants and preservatives are not completely safe.

Super premium

Super-premium food is much more trustworthy. These are Trainer, ProSeries, Eminent. First, they use oats, rice, barley or potatoes instead of corn gluten gluten. Secondly, antioxidants and preservatives are natural (rosemary, mixtures of tocopherols). And the percentage of meat ingredients, vegetables and vitamins is much higher.

Holistic

And finally, holistic foods are the foods that occupy a leading position. They contain: dehydrated and fresh meat and fish; rice or lentils; safe preservatives; fresh fruits, vegetables and berries. In addition to the above, a good vitamin and mineral supplement. Examples: Naturea, Power of Nature, Pronature Holistic.

Expert opinion

Dusheba Vera Ivanovna

In 2010, she graduated from the Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine named after K.I. Scriabin with honors, specializing in veterinary medicine. I regularly attend veterinary conferences, congresses, and webinars.

When choosing ready-made food, remember: the cat should always have access to water without restrictions. Change it 2 times a day: morning and evening. Water – at a comfortable temperature (not cold or hot), clean (distilled or settled).

Below are recommended super-premium foods. Links with the names of the food are clickable, on them you can, within our website, read the descriptions of the food and read reviews from owners of Ragamuffin cats.

Ragamuffin breeding

Initially, the founder of the breed, Anne Baker, was involved in the breeding of these long-haired cats. Since the process got out of the control of the breeder, ragamuffins began to spread in both the USA and European countries. However, such purrs are still not very well known in Russia. And they get divorced mostly privately.

Ragamuffin breeding is a rare phenomenon in the CIS countries

To receive an inheritance from your pet, you need to follow a strict rule - cross the animal only with a partner of the same breed or with a representative of the Ragdoll breed. However, CFA standards allow you to choose long-haired Selkirk Rex dogs as a pair until 2030.

Puberty in ragamuffins occurs late - at four years of age. Then the purr is given for the first mating.

Ragamuffins are often crossed with Ragdolls due to the lack of partners of the same breed in the immediate environment.

The ragamuffin cat's pregnancy lasts 65–70 days, resulting in white kittens. Over time, the individual color of the fur coat appears - starting from the 8th week of life.

To prevent the female from having health problems, it is better for your furry pet to give birth no more than three times a year. Moreover, at this time you need to monitor your cat’s health more carefully than usual, double the amount of vitamins and regularly monitor it with a veterinarian. After giving birth, it is advisable for ragamuffins to undergo a course of restorative therapy, especially if the delivery was complicated.

Diseases

Representatives of this breed have a fairly strong immune system, and they have only 2 genetic diseases. These are hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and polycystic kidney disease. In both the first and second cases, it is impossible to cure the disease, but medications and observation help prolong the pet’s life.

Ragamuffins lick themselves very often and diligently. Wool, once in the intestines, clogs it, so feed the animal pumpkin puree more often or give it a special paste.

Expert opinion

Dusheba Vera Ivanovna

In 2010, she graduated from the Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine named after K.I. Scriabin with honors, specializing in veterinary medicine. I regularly attend veterinary conferences, congresses, and webinars.

Your cat needs to be vaccinated even if he does not leave the apartment and does not come into contact with other cats. Mandatory vaccinations against: rabies, calcivirosis, rhinotracheitis, panleukopenia, chlamydia. The first vaccination is carried out at the age of 6-10 weeks (depending on whether there is a risk of contracting the disease or not). At 12 weeks a rabies injection is given. Then, vaccinations are repeated every year. Well-proven drugs: “Nobivak Triket”, “Quadricat”, “Leukorifelin”, “Fel-O-vax”.

Diseases and defects of the breed

Since the ancestors of Ragamuffins were “hardened” street cats, their descendants are not prone to diseases. Hereditary diseases are also rare among these cats. Therefore, such pets live on average 16–18 years.

Regular visits to the veterinarian will ensure the health and longevity of the Ragamuffin

At the same time, the following ailments occur among representatives of these felines:

• polycystic kidney disease - when cysts grow in these organs and fluid accumulates, as a result of which the pet needs systematic detoxification and symptomatic measures;
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy - characterized by enlargement of the heart muscle and develops regardless of age, but is more common in older individuals;
• hip dysplasia - found in young animals and is a lack of articulation between the pelvis and the femur.

Like other cats, Ragamuffins can become infected with worms, so it is important to have your cat checked regularly by a veterinarian.

Preventive vaccinations are given starting at the age of three months. Vaccination includes protective measures against influenza and enteritis, as well as prevention of leukemia (if the cat is often outdoors).

The defects of the breed, due to which Ragamuffins are not allowed to compete, include:

• squat body and protruding vertebrae;
• shortened tail with kinks or sparse hair;
• slanted eyes and small ears;
• excessively flattened nose;
• sparse “collar” on the neck and missing “pants” on the hind legs;
• the coat is darker and duller than usual.

Such deviations are strictly monitored by the CFA system and become the reason for the disqualification of cats at exhibitions.

Color

The color of the Ragamuffin's coat is not important; white is acceptable in unlimited quantities, with the exception of color point. There can be many colors and variations.

The nose and paw pads can be any color, but white cats can only have pink, bi-color, or multi-color paw pads. In other words, the Ragamuffin is a ragdoll, but with a new coloring.

As for eye color, any color is possible, but bright eyes are a priority. For mink color, the eyes should be azure, for cats and cats with a gray-brown color - the color of young grass or yellow to match the coat.

Description of the Ragamuffin breed

The Ragamuffin cat is medium or large in size, weighs about 5-8 kg, has a strong skeleton and well-fed body, and is distinguished by large expressive eyes. Males are somewhat larger; 10 kilograms is not the limit for their weight.

Prolonged solitude is unacceptable for a pet because it can cause stress. Such emotional trauma will lead to difficulties in further contact, as the Ragamuffin will feel lonely and abandoned. Cats of other breeds do not have such qualities; they are usually left to their own devices and enjoy it.