When deciding on the perfect cat breed to bring into our humble homes, it’s essential to consider various factors.
In today’s dilemma, you find yourself torn between a ragamuffin vs ragdoll cat. So to kickstart the comparison, let’s take a glance at the key attributes of Ragamuffins and Ragdoll cats:
| Feature | Ragamuffin | Ragdoll |
| Origin | California, United States | California, United States |
| Weight | Males: 12-20 pounds
Females: 8-15 pounds |
Both male and female: up to 20 pounds |
| Body type | Large, sturdy | Large, muscular |
| Coat length | Medium-long, silky | Semi-long to long, soft |
| Coat colors | Various colors and patterns (blue, cream, black, white, chocolate, etc.) | Pointed colors (seal, lynx, tortoiseshell, mitted color) |
| Eye color | Any color | Blue |
| Personality | Gentle, playful, outgoing | Gentle, laid-back, affectionate |
| Grooming needs | Moderate to high | Moderate to high |
| Lifespan | 12-17 years | 12-17 years |
Please note that the table provides a general overview only between the two. But worry not, as this article will give you a thorough comparison between the two endearing feline breeds!
Table of Contents
An Overview of the Two Breeds
Ragamuffin and Ragdoll cats are both known for their docile and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions for individuals and families alike.
But, did you know that both have been quite known to have a shared history? Well, it all started in California during the 1960s with a white longhaired cat named Josephine!
Josephine captured the attention of a breeder named Ann Baker. The breeding process resulted in a litter of kittens that had longhaired fur, stunning blue eyes, and a relaxed temperament.
One notable behavior of the newfound breed was they would often go limp when being held, hence the name “Ragdoll.”
As for the Ragamuffins, it began in the 1990s when some breeders sought to incorporate new bloodlines to diversify and improve the breed.
The Ragamuffins still inherited many of the desirable traits of Ragdolls, including their size, loving temperament, and silky longhaired coats! Also, the name was still derived from Ragdolls and a tribute to Baker’s culinary prowess in making muffins, thus “Ragamuffin.”
Today, both feline breeds truly continue to enchant cat enthusiasts with their gentle and affectionate personalities and striking similarities!
And now since both breeds have large, robust bodies with semi-longhair coats that come in various colors and patterns, and possessing stunning blue eyes that captivate onlookers, it would be quite difficult which one to choose, right?
So, we’ve gathered the differences for each of the adorable feline breeds to guide you further on your decision. Let’s delve into their captivating differences!
Differences Between Ragamuffin and Ragdoll Cats
1. Feline Coat
Ragamuffin cats come in a variety of coat colors, patterns, and lengths, including blue, cream, the striking black and white Ragamuffin cat, and even the tuxedo Ragamuffin cat! Their coats can be medium or semi-long and are distinctively silky!
On the other hand, Ragdoll cats possess a soft semi-long coat that exudes elegance. The fur of Ragdolls comes in 5 various colors and patterns: ranging from traditional points (darker ears, face, paws, and tail), mitted (white paws), bicolor (solid body color with darker points), lynx point, and tortoiseshell point!
2. Head Shape
Although both Ragamuffins and Ragdolls have wedge-shaped heads, a Ragamuffin’s head is more rounded and the nose has more of a slight dip.
Whereas a Ragdoll’s head features more wide-set ears and also has a well-defined chin than Ragamuffins.
3. Eyes
The eyes of Ragamuffin cats are known for their large and expressive walnut-shaped eyes. These eyes can come in a variety of mesmerizing colors, including shades of green, gold, and blue.
On the other hand, Ragdoll cats have oval-shaped eyes that are particularly renowned for always having a genetically encoded striking blue color.
4. Cat Size and Structure
In terms of size and body structure, both Ragamuffin and Ragdoll cats are known for their large size and muscular build. However, there are slight differences between the two breeds.
Ragdoll cats tend to be slightly larger than Ragamuffins. Both male and female ragdolls weigh up to 20 pounds, and reach a length of up to 40 inches! Whereas for Ragamuffins, males generally weigh 12-20 pounds, and 8-15 pounds for females, and reach up to 33 inches in length!
Ragdoll cats have a sturdy build with a broad chest and large hindquarters. Their legs are of medium length, and their paws are rounded and tufted.
5. Cat Personality
Ragamuffin cats are known for their extroverted and outgoing nature. They enjoy socializing with humans and are often described as playful and active! Their lively personalities make them engaging feline fur buds!
Ragdolls, on the other hand, have a reputation for their calm and relaxed demeanor. They are gentle and affectionate, often content with lounging around and being cuddled. Their laid-back nature adds to their allure as serene and tranquil companions.
6. Cat Price
A Ragamuffin kitten can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500 on average, with some high-quality or show-quality kittens possibly costing more. As for Ragdoll cats, the typical price range is between $800 and $3,500.
Regardless, the cost of Ragamuffin and Ragdoll cats can still vary depending on various factors, including the cat’s pedigree, age, coat quality, and the reputation of the breeder.
Generally, purebred cats tend to be more expensive than mixed breeds of cats from shelters.
It’s important to note that purchasing a cat is just one aspect of the cost involved in owning a pet.
Additional expenses such as vaccinations, spaying or neutering, regular vet check-ups, food, grooming, and toys should also be considered.
Which is Better: Ragdoll vs Ragamuffin Cat?
Well, the answer to that still largely depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. If you’re looking for a cat that is sociable, energetic, and comes in a vibrant array of colors, then the Ragamuffin might be the purrfect choice for you!
But, if you prefer a more laid-back and affectionate companion, then the Ragdoll cat might be your feline soulmate, not to mention their mesmerizing blue eyes that can melt hearts in an instant!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ragamuffin cats talkative?
Ragamuffin cats are generally not known for being excessively talkative. While they may communicate through soft meows or purring, they are not as chatty as some other cat breeds.
Are Ragamuffin cats easy to train?
Ragamuffin cats are intelligent and can be trained using positive reinforcement techniques. With patience and consistency, they can learn tricks and commands, making them relatively easy to train.
Do Ragdoll cats enjoy cuddling?
Absolutely! Ragdoll cats are renowned for their affectionate and cuddly personalities. They have a tendency also to go limp (like a ragdoll) when picked up, earning them the nickname “Ragdoll.”
Is a Ragamuffin black rare?
While black Ragamuffin cats are not as common as other coat colors, they are not considered extremely rare within the breed. Ragamuffins come in a wide variety of coat colors and patterns, and black is one of the possible options.
Is a Ragamuffin hypoallergenic?
No, Ragamuffin cats are not considered hypoallergenic. No breed of cat is 100% hypoallergenic. However, despite a Ragamuffin’s soft and cuddly fur, which makes them incredibly lovable, they can still potentially leave allergenic proteins behind wherever they rest.
Conclusion
Choosing between a ragamuffin and a ragdoll cat can be a delightful yet challenging decision. Understanding the differences in their coats, eyes, personality, and overall traits is crucial when making this choice.
Now that we’ve reached the end of the feline faceoff: ragamuffin vs ragdoll cat, we’d like to leave a little bit of a mantra that individual cats, regardless of breed, always have their unique preferences and personalities!
After all, when it comes to choosing a feline companion, there’s no wrong choice—just a bundle of joy waiting to bring love into your life!
I am Amy Sawy, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) graduate from the University of Kansas. y husband, Dr. Plummer, and I own a veterinary clinic in Phillipsburg, Kansas. In addition to my professional background, I am a devoted pet owner myself, with a household that includes dogs, rodents, and most notably, cats – a total of five felines in my home.
In 2020, I joined an organization as a professional writer, leveraging my experience and collaborating with my team to deliver the most valuable information for your cat’s care.
