Ragdoll vs Ragamuffin


ragamuffin vs ragdoll

Ragdoll and Ragamuffin cats are both adorable, but sometimes difficult to distinguish from each other. Both are beautiful breeds, sweet-natured, and excellent pets to connect with. Although they can be pretty similar, a few differences may influence your decision on finding the perfect pet for you.

Brief Cat History 

Ragdoll and Ragamuffin cats are unique breeds that were developed by humans and are closely related. Their history starts with the Ragdoll.

The Ragdoll cat was first developed in the 1960s in Riverside, California, by a cat breeder named Ann Baker. Its origins are from free-roaming cats, specifically, it’s the offspring of a white female feline called Josephine, who was endearing and had the unique temperament traits Baker was looking for. After selecting cats that satisfied the criteria for an official breeding program, she started the Ragdoll breed.

After the successfully-produced Ragdoll breed was established, a group of breeders started adding different genetic variations to cross with Ragdoll cats. One offspring developed by cross-breeding a Ragdoll with a long-haired cat was the so-called Ragamuffin. Eventually the Ragamuffin was officially recognized as a distinct breed with its sweet nature and exceptional temperament traits.

What do you think? Do Ragdolls scratch the furnitures?

Coat Differences

Both breeds have the same medium-long, silky coats and plumed tails, but Ragamuffin’s coats are less likely to tangle. Ragamuffin cats have a wider variety of both solid and patterned colors, but Ragdolls have an exclusive coloration that is distinct to them. 

Ragdoll cats have point coloration that includes darker colors on the ears, face, paws, legs, and tails than on the main parts of their body. They can also have white colors on their paws. They are born white, but their coats transform into different colors like chocolate and lilac as they grow older.

Feline Eyes 

Both Ragdolls and Ragamuffins have gorgeous large eyes, but they differ in their color and size. Ragamuffins have rounder and walnut-shaped eyes, compared to the oval-shaped eyes of the Ragdoll.

Their eye color is the best distinguishing feature for recognizing the difference between them. Ragamuffins can have any eye color, while a pure-bred Ragdoll will only have blue eyes.

Other Features

Ragamuffins and Ragdolls are typically large cats, weighing between 10 – 20 pounds. They are cats that take a long time to reach their full size.

When it comes to the nose, the Ragamuffin has a rounder contour between their ears and nose scoop. This is different from the Ragdoll, which has straight lines.

Behavioral Differences

Both breeds are known for being docile and very affectionate to their owners. They also show calm natures and laid-back personalities, so it’s important to provide playtime to combat heir lazy tendencies and keep them fit and active.

According to The Cat Fancier’s Association, Ragamuffins make better pets for households with children because they are exceptionally patient and calm, while Ragdolls are not as relaxed when socializing around young kids. 

Ragdolls and Ragamuffins are remarkably intelligent, sweet, and adorable pets that will often follow and greet their owners from time to time. They can also be taught basic commands and learn simple tricks by giving them a snack as a reward.

These cats tend to be lazy at times, but that doesn’t change the fact that they enjoy people’s company.

Cat Grooming 

Both cats have similar grooming requirements, but Ragdolls are more high maintenance when it comes to grooming and shedding. Ragdoll cats are required to groom at least twice every week. On the other hand, Ragamuffins have coats that are less likely to tangle and usually aren’t as long as a Ragdoll’s coat.

Both cats are usually shedders, and they molt regularly. Always make sure to have a good set of cat grooming materials when grooming them. Use a steel comb to ensure the pristine condition of their coats.  It’s essential to eliminate loose cat hair since it can affect you and your cat’s health.

Ragdoll vs Ragamuffin: Health

Ragdolls and Ragamuffins are generally healthy and strong breeds. However, it’s still important to ensure that these cats are fully vaccinated and dewormed. Because of their laid-back personalities, they have a tendency to suffer from lack of exercise and obesity. It’s important to provide playtime to these felines and avoid overfeeding them. 

Ragdolls are prone to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), an inherited condition that can greatly affect a cat’s heart. It’s important to ensure a proper breeding process and continue giving your cats’ proper care. Being free from the HCM now doesn’t guarantee that they won’t develop it later in life.

Frequently asked questions about Ragdolls and Ragamuffins

Is my Ragdoll happy?

There are several ways to know if your Ragdoll is happy. Purring is one way they show they’re pleased. Hearing a loud and vibrating purr shows contentment and happiness that the cat feels loved and cared for. 

When your cat often sleeps on your clothes and personal belongings, it shows that they respect and see you as part of their family. The simple act of licking from your cat indicates a show of love, and they welcome you as their family.

Do Ragamuffins go limp?

Ragdolls are known for going completely limp when picked up. Ragamuffins, on the other hand, don’t easily go limp because it’s not a part of their breed characteristic. These cats don’t mind being carried around your arms, but they won’t happily flop on your arms like a rag doll the way Ragdoll cats do.

Why do Ragdolls follow you around?

Ragdolls are sweet in nature and very affectionate to their owners. They start following you around because they feel comfort when they can see you and when you are near them. These cats have a dog-like personality of being playful and the love of having human companions around.

Final thoughts

Ragdolls and Ragamuffins have several similarities and a few differences that can help tell them apart and show their own unique features. Both cats are quite lazy, but they are sweet-natured, very affectionate to their owners, and enjoy the company of people. Ragdolls and Ragamuffins are both good pets to have. So, choosing the purrfect cat for your household depends on your personal preferences. 

ragamuffin vs ragdoll

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