It’s no surprise that people often mix up Ragamuffin and Ragdoll cats – they’re both big, fluffy, and super affectionate. But if you know what to look for, telling them apart isn’t too tricky.
One of the easiest ways to distinguish between the two breeds is by their coat colors. Ragamuffins come in a wide variety of colors, but they often have a lot of white fur. The key thing to remember is that they don’t have any “points” – you know, those darker patches of fur on the ears, legs, and tail. Ragdolls, on the other hand, usually have a solid color on their body with darker points.
Another way to tell them apart is by looking at their eyes. Ragamuffins have round, expressive eyes, while Ragdolls have more of an almond shape.
If you’re still not sure which breed you’re dealing with, try picking them up. If they go totally limp in your arms like a ragdoll (see what I did there?), then you’ve got a Ragdoll on your hands.
Even though these two breeds are related, they each have their own unique quirks and characteristics. So, before you bring one home, it’s a good idea to do your research and figure out which breed is the best fit for you and your lifestyle.
Main Differences
Here’s a concise comparison of the visual differences between Ragamuffin and Ragdoll cats:
| Aspect | Ragamuffin | Ragdoll |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Large |
| Average Height (adult): | 9–12 inches | 9–11 inches |
| Weight | 10–20 pounds | 8–20 pounds |
| Eyes | Large, almond-shaped | Large, oval, deep blue |
| Coat Length | Long, plush | Long, silky |
| Coat Texture | Soft, silky | Soft, plush |
| Coat Colors | Wide range | Traditional colors like seal, blue |
| Exercise | High | Moderate |
| Tail | Plush, bushy | Long, bushy |
| Temperament | Affectionate, laid-back | Affectionate, gentle |
| Lifespan | 12-16 years | 12-17 years |
Ragamuffin Overview
Ragamuffins, a breed distinguished by their large stature, broad chests, and short necks, emerged as a distinct breed in 1994, differentiating themselves from the closely related Ragdoll breed. These cats, known for their affectionate nature and plush coats, have quickly become a favorite among cat enthusiasts.
If you’re considering adding a Ragamuffin to your family through a breeder, it’s important to be financially prepared. The cost of a Ragamuffin from a reputable breeder can range significantly, typically between $800 to $2,000.
This price variation is influenced by factors such as the breeder’s reputation and the specific bloodlines of the cat. As a relatively new and sought-after breed, Ragamuffins command a higher price, reflecting their unique characteristics and the care involved in breeding them
Ragamuffin Personality:
The Ragamuffin is celebrated for its incredibly sweet, affectionate, and gentle personality, making it an ideal companion for families, including those with young children or other pets. These cats are known for their sociable nature, often following their owners around the house and eagerly greeting them at the door. They thrive on attention and love to cuddle, showcasing a calm and easy-going temperament that complements their desire for companionship.
Ragamuffins are also noted for their intelligence and playful demeanor, enjoying interactive play and even learning tricks or walking on a leash. Despite their large size, they are described as “puppy-like” due to their friendly and personable nature. These cats are not overly vocal but will communicate their needs and affection to their trusted humans.
Their docile and mild-mannered traits make them adaptable to various living situations, whether it’s a bustling family home or a quiet apartment. Ragamuffins are known to be very patient and tolerant, rarely using their claws in interactions, which further underscores their gentle nature.
Ragamuffin Training:
Training a Ragamuffin cat is a rewarding experience that hinges on patience, positivity, and understanding their unique personality. These cats are not only smart but also keen to please, making them excellent students for a variety of commands and tricks. The secret to their training lies in using positive reinforcement; they absolutely love treats and praise, which can motivate them to learn and repeat desired behaviors.
Clicker training works wonders with Ragamuffins, as the click sound followed by a reward helps them make quick connections between actions and rewards.
Keep your training sessions short and sweet to match their attention span and incorporate play to keep them engaged. Ragamuffins are naturally clean animals, so litter training usually goes smoothly. If you’re venturing into something more advanced like leash training, take it slow and let them get used to the leash gradually. Remember, the goal of training is not just about teaching skills but also about strengthening your bond.
Ragamuffin Health and care:
Ragamuffins are pretty sturdy cats, but they do have a couple of health issues to watch out for, like heart disease (HCM) and kidney problems (PKD). It’s a good idea to get them checked regularly by a vet to catch any signs early. Their fur is one of their best features – it’s thick and plush but surprisingly easy to take care of. A brush through once a week should keep it looking great without too much fuss.
Don’t forget about their teeth, either. A bit of dental care goes a long way in preventing any gum problems. And, like many of us, Ragamuffins love their food a bit too much, so it’s important to keep an eye on their diet to avoid weight gain.
They’re not the most active cats, but they do enjoy playtime, which helps keep them fit and entertained. Keeping them indoors is generally a good idea to keep them safe from outdoor dangers.
Ragdoll Overview:
The Ragdoll is a large, semi-longhaired cat breed known for its striking blue eyes, calm temperament, and tendency to go limp when picked up. Originally developed in California in the 1960s, Ragdolls are muscular yet floppy cats weighing up to 20 pounds. Their medium-length coat is silky and requires weekly grooming.
Ragdolls come in six pointed colors – seal, blue, lilac, chocolate, red, and cream – with lighter bodies and darker points on the face, ears, legs and tail. Gentle, affectionate, and easygoing, Ragdolls make wonderful family pets that get along well with children and other animals.
Like Ragamuffins, Ragdolls from reputable breeders come with a hefty price tag. While some pet-quality kittens may cost around $400, show-quality Ragdolls can easily fetch $2,000 or more.
Ragdoll Personality:
Ragdolls are the epitome of laid-back, affectionate felines. While there’s a myth that they’re pain-resistant (which is untrue and should never be tested), one of the most accurate adjectives to describe these cats is “floppy.” They’re true lap cats who will happily invade your personal space, demanding cuddles and attention.
Like Ragamuffins, Ragdolls are known for greeting their owners at the door, eager to shower them with affection. These gentle giants make wonderful family pets, as they’re incredibly tolerant and accepting of children and other pets alike. The biggest challenge with Ragdolls is not their behavior but ensuring they’re treated gently by little ones.
They thrive in households with multiple people or pets, as they’re prone to loneliness and crave companionship. Ragdolls will seek out your company, whether it’s sharing a room or snuggling up beside you.
Adopting a Ragdoll requires a commitment to providing them with the attention and affection they crave. It would be cruel to bring one into your home and then neglect their need for human interaction. These cats make excellent emotional support animals, as they’re highly attuned to their owners’ moods.
Ragdoll Training:
Training a Ragdoll cat is a breeze, thanks to their laid-back personality and eagerness to please. These gentle giants are super smart and can learn all sorts of tricks with a little patience and positive reinforcement.
Clicker training works wonders with Ragdolls – just pair the click with a yummy treat, and they’ll be doing whatever you want in no time! One thing to keep in mind is that Ragdolls can be a bit sensitive, so harsh corrections or punishment are a big no-no. Instead, focus on rewarding good behavior with praise, treats, and playtime. Litter training is usually a piece of cake since Ragdolls are naturally clean and tidy cats.
When it comes to leash training, take it slow and let your Ragdoll get used to the harness indoors first. Once they’re comfortable, you can start exploring the great outdoors together. Just remember, these cats are indoor pets at heart, so always keep a close eye on them when you’re outside.
Ragdoll Health and Care
Ragdolls are generally healthy breed, but they don’t quite have the longevity of their Ragamuffin cousins. One major health concern to watch out for is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a form of heart disease. Instead of kidney issues, Ragdolls are more prone to developing bladder stones, so you’ll want to keep an eye out for that.
Diet is also important for these cats. Ragdolls thrive on a meat-based diet, and it’s best to provide a mix of high-quality dry and wet food. Once they reach adulthood, portion control is key to prevent obesity, so stick to a regular feeding schedule and avoid free-feeding.
When it comes to grooming, Ragdolls require a bit more maintenance than Ragamuffins. Their luscious coats can become tangled and matted, so daily brushing is recommended if possible. Most Ragdolls actually enjoy being brushed, so it can be a nice bonding experience for you and your furry friend.
While they don’t shed excessively, Ragdolls do shed a fair amount, so be prepared for a bit of fur on your clothes and furniture – it’s just part of the deal with these lap-loving kitties! Don’t forget about dental care and nail trims, too. And one unique grooming need for Ragdolls is weekly ear cleaning with a damp cloth to prevent bacterial buildup and infections.
Which Cat Breed Is Right for You? Making the Purr-fect Choice
Now that we’ve explored the world of Ragamuffins and Ragdolls, you might be wondering which breed is the right fit for you. Both breeds make wonderful companions, but there are a few key differences to consider.
If you’re looking for a cat with a wide variety of coat colors and patterns, the Ragamuffin might be the perfect choice. Their plush, rabbit-like coat and expressive eyes are sure to capture your heart. Ragamuffins are also known for their adaptability and easygoing nature, making them a great fit for families with children and other pets.
On the other hand, if you’re drawn to the classic pointed coat pattern and striking blue eyes of the Ragdoll, this breed might be the one for you. Ragdolls are known for their gentle and affectionate personality, often following their owners around the house like a puppy. They make excellent lap cats and thrive on human companionship.
Hey guys, My name is Simon Smith. I’m from Canada and live near Victoria
I live with my sweet family and have 20+ Ragdolls of different types. I love them as my own children. My profession is as a hotel manager.
I love to keep Ragdolls and grow their breeder case. I have 7 years of experience.
I’m an expert in cat care. So, I’m here to provide you with new information about my cats daily. This is my personal blog website, so I request that you kindly visit our site daily.
If you’re a Ragdolls lover and you have any questions or confusion about cats, text me on the Contact Us page or Gmail.
Thank u