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RagaMuffin

RagaMuffin

Origin: United States

GentleDocileAffectionatePatientPlayful

Weight

8-20 lbs

Height

9-11 inches

Lifespan

12-16 years

Coat

Thick, plush, rabbit-like coat in any color or pattern

Breeder Cost

$1,500-$3,500

Adoption Cost

$75-$200

Personality & Temperament

The RagaMuffin is essentially a Ragdoll with more color options — a large, docile, and deeply affectionate cat that goes limp when held. They are extraordinarily patient with children and other pets, making them ideal family cats.

Best For

Families, seniors, or apartment dwellers seeking a large, gentle, and deeply affectionate companion cat.

Exercise & Activity Needs

Moderate indoor play. They enjoy interactive toys but are not high-energy cats.

Grooming & Coat Care

Brush twice a week to prevent tangles. Their coat is surprisingly mat-resistant despite its length.

Coat type: Thick, plush, rabbit-like coat in any color or pattern

Common Health Conditions

Generally healthy. HCM, PKD, and obesity are the main concerns.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Heart muscle disease common in large cat breeds.

Polycystic Kidney Disease

Genetic kidney condition — DNA testing available.

Obesity

Their docile nature makes them prone to weight gain.

History & Origin

The RagaMuffin was developed in the 1990s by a group of Ragdoll breeders who wanted to expand the breed's color options and gene pool. When the Ragdoll's original creator, Ann Baker, refused to allow changes to her trademarked breed, the dissenting breeders created the RagaMuffin as a separate breed. The ACFA recognized the RagaMuffin in 1994.

Interesting Facts

  • 1

    RagaMuffins were created by Ragdoll breeders who wanted to expand the color options beyond Ann Baker's strict standards.

  • 2

    They go limp when held — the same 'floppy' trait as Ragdolls.

  • 3

    RagaMuffins are one of the largest domestic cat breeds — males can weigh up to 20 lbs.

  • 4

    Their coat is surprisingly mat-resistant despite its plush, thick texture.

  • 5

    They are known for their 'puppy-like' behavior — they will follow their owners around the house and greet them at the door.

Cost of Ownership

Owning a RagaMuffin is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.

Annual Cost

$800–$1,600

First Year (incl. setup)

$2,000–$3,800

Food$250–$450/yr

Large cat; quality food important

Vet Care$300–$600/yr

HCM and PKD are concerns; generally healthy breed

Grooming$150–$400/yr

Long, plush coat needs brushing 2–3x/week

Litter & Supplies$150–$300/yr

Large litter box needed; quality litter

Toys & Enrichment$100–$200/yr

Gentle and docile; calm interactive toys preferred

Pet Insurance$250–$500/yr

Recommended for HCM and kidney coverage

* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.

Popularity & Adoption Trends

Estimated US Population

~200,000 in the US

Adoption Trend

rising

RagaMuffin popularity has grown alongside the broader Ragdoll trend, as cat lovers seek large, gentle companion cats. Their expanded color palette compared to Ragdolls attracts buyers who want the same temperament with more visual variety.

Plan daily life with your RagaMuffin

Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.

Pet Tech Essentials

The right technology makes cat ownership easier, safer, and more connected — whether you're home or away. These are the products our editors consider must-haves for every cat owner.

Breed Traits

Best forfamilies with kids · apartment living · first-time owners
Not idealowners away long hours
Positive for ownersNeeds managementInformational
Energy Level
Low
Trainability
High
Apartment OK
Very High
Kid-Friendly
Very High
Pet-Friendly
Very High
Affection Level
Very High
Grooming
Moderate
Shedding
Moderate

Temperament

Barking
Moderate
Protective
Low
Sep. Anxiety
High
Stubbornness
Low
Noise Sensitive
Low

Climate & Physical

Heat Tolerance
Low
Cold Tolerance
High
Water Affinity
Very Low

Compatibility

Dog Friendly
High
Cat Friendly
High
Hunting Instinct
Low
✓
Good for first-time owners

Health & Longevity

Health Score
Good (7/10)

Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions

Longevity
12-16 years
5 yrs20 yrs
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Consider Adopting

Many RagaMuffins are waiting in shelters and breed-specific rescues. Adoption costs are typically $75-$200 vs. $1,500-$3,500 from a breeder.

Read our Rescue Guide →
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Download the RagaMuffin Guide

Get a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.

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