Ragamuffin

Overall description of the breed

The Ragamuffin, a cat breed with irresistible charm, has a fascinating history that dates back to the beginnings of modern selective breeding. Originating from the United States, this breed has captured hearts with its gentle appearance and affectionate nature.

Its story begins in the 1960s when Ann Baker, a passionate cat breeder in California, started developing a new breed by crossing domestic cats with specific traits. Ann Baker is also the creator of the Ragdoll breed, which influenced the development of the Ragamuffin.

The ancestors of the Ragamuffin include alley cats with various coat colors as well as Ragdolls. Ann Baker established a breeding program to create cats with soft fur, expressive eyes, and a gentle disposition. The distinctive features of the Ragamuffin include its imposing size, semi-long silky coat, and friendly personality.

Morphologically, it stands out with its large, muscular size. Its head is medium-sized, with full cheeks and large expressive eyes that give the cat a gentle and captivating appearance. Its paws are sturdy and proportionate to its body, while its tail is bushy and slightly rounded at the tip.

Regarding coat colors and patterns, the Ragamuffin offers a variety of options, ranging from traditional colors like black and white to more exotic shades like lilac and cream. Coat patterns include the classic tabby, bicolor, and colorpoint, adding even more diversity to this charming breed.

The Ragamuffin's character is undoubtedly one of its most cherished traits. These cats are known to be extremely loving, gentle, and caring towards their owners. They are often described as "living plush toys" due to their cuddly nature and fondness for affection. Ragamuffins are typically sociable and get along well with other pets and children, making them great family companions.

The average weight of the Ragamuffin varies depending on gender and lineage, but on average, males weigh between 5.5 and 9 kg (12 to 20 lb), while females weigh between 4 and 6.5 kg (9 to 14 lb). In terms of shoulder height, this large domestic cat typically measures between 25 and 35 cm (10 to 14 inches).

The Ragamuffin has gained popularity over the years and caught the attention of many passionate breeders. The Ragamuffin Cat Fanciers Club was founded in 1994 by a group of dedicated breeders to promote and preserve the breed. While few recognized registries acknowledge the Ragamuffin cat today, the World Cat Fédération officially confirmed its breed status in 2009, a globally renowned feline organization.

In conclusion, it embodies the perfect blend of adorable looks and affectionate personality. Its relatively recent history and development by passionate breeders have given rise to a breed that has quickly won hearts around the world. Thanks to its irresistible charm, loving temperament, and variety of colors and patterns, the Ragamuffin is poised to remain a cherished and sought-after cat breed for many years to come.