The RagaMuffin is a large, soft-coated long-haired breed created in 1994 by breeders who split from the Ragdoll's founder. It is accepted in every colour and pattern.
Docile and affectionate, it is recognised in Britain but uncommon.
The RagaMuffin is a large, heavy long-haired cat with a very soft coat and a placid nature. It is an offshoot of the Ragdoll and comes in a far wider range of colours.
Origin
The founder of the Ragdoll kept tight control of the name and of how the cats could be bred. In 1994 a group of breeders left her organisation, chose a new name and widened the gene pool by crossing their cats with Persians, Himalayans and domestic long-haired cats. The result was accepted by the American registries over the following years.
Appearance
RagaMuffins are big-boned and broad-chested, with a pad of fat on the lower belly, and do not reach full size until about four years old. The head is a broad, rounded wedge with a short muzzle, full cheeks and large walnut-shaped eyes, which give a sweet expression. The coat is medium-long, dense and silky, often compared to rabbit fur, with a ruff and a full tail. Unlike the Ragdoll, the breed is accepted in every colour and pattern, and eye colour varies accordingly.
Temperament
The breed is docile, affectionate and patient, happy to be carried and to sit on laps, and good with children and other pets. It is best kept indoors or in a secure garden.
Care and health
The coat tangles less than its length suggests and needs combing two or three times a week. Weight has to be watched. Because Persians were used in its development, breeders screen for polycystic kidney disease, and for the heart muscle disease that occurs in Ragdolls.
Recognition
The RagaMuffin is recognised by the American registries and by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy. About 50 kittens a year are registered in Britain.
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