All You Need To Know
Owning a Ragamuffin cat in Malaysia
The Ragamuffin is a cat breed that embodies all the best qualities of feline companionship—a cat with a heart as big as its fluffy, teddy bear-like body, and a personality that makes every moment feel like a warm hug. With their affectionate nature, striking eyes, and velvety coats, Ragamuffins are not just pets; they are cherished family members who bring joy, laughter, and an abundance of love into every home they grace.
At Petchef, we believe that it is the parents’ responsibility to prepare the best living conditions for their furkids. Read on to know more about the history, physical traits, personality, care requirements, and reasons why the Ragamuffin cat may be the cat for you.
Breed overview
Personality | Gentle, affectionate, sociable, friendly and “puppy-like” |
Weight | 5.4 to 9.1 kg (12 to 20 pounds), Females: 3.6 to 6.8 kg (8 to 15 pounds) |
Size | Large |
Coat length | Long and silky |
Coat color | White, black, blue, red, lavender, cinnamon, chestnut, platinum, and chocolate |
Coat patterns | Solid, tabby, bicoloured, pointed, Himalayan, tortoisehell, smoke |
Eye color | Amber, blue, green, gold, odd-eyed |
Lifespan | Up to 18 years |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Origin | United States |
Personality & Characteristics
Ragamuffins are affectionate, gentle, and friendly cats with a playful and adaptable nature. They enjoy cuddles, get along well with people and other pets, and are known for their calm demeanour. Their large, plush coats and striking eyes complement their loving and sociable personality. Similar to their cousins the Ragdoll, they are also described as “puppy-like” as they enjoy learning tricks, playing fetch and are lap cats as they enjoy being cuddled.
Affection level | High |
Friendliness | High |
Kid-Friendly | High |
Pet-Friendly | High |
Exercise needs | Medium |
Playfullness | Medium |
Energy level | Medium |
Trainability | Medium to High |
Intelligence | Medium to High |
Tendency to Vocalize | Moderate |
History & Origin
The Ragamuffin cat was developed in the U.S. during the 1960s and 1970s through selective breeding of domestic longhairs and Persians. The goal was to create a large, affectionate breed with a luxurious, plush coat and a gentle temperament. The breed was officially recognized in the 1990s and quickly gained popularity for its friendly, sociable nature and distinctive appearance. Today, Ragamuffins are cherished for their loving personality and adaptability, making them beloved companions in many households.
Grooming & Care
Ragamuffins have a luxurious, long coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in top condition. Here’s a breakdown of their grooming and care needs:
Common Health Issues
Ragamuffins are generally healthy cats, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions like:
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, adequate exercise, and maintaining a stress-free environment can help mitigate these health risks and ensure a Ragamuffin’s overall well-being.
Diet and Nutrition
Ragamuffin cats require a balanced diet to maintain their large size and overall health. Here are some dietary considerations:
Starting from only RM75 a month (or RM2.50 a day), Petchef’s team of vets and chefs can curate the perfect meal plan for your furkid! Each meal contains quality meat (chicken, beef, buffalo) or fish (salmon, tuna) and vegetables to ensure your furkid fulfils all their nutritional needs. No preservatives, no additives, no fillers or grains; only food they were born to eat.
PS: Here are the answers to all the questions on Petchef’s meals you might possibly have. 😉
Lifestyle and Living
Living with Ragamuffins is relatively easy because they are highly adaptable cats that can easily make themselves at home. Here are some tips for your cat to live their best life:
Adopt or Buy Ragamuffin Cats
In Malaysia, there are several options for adopting or purchasing a Ragamuffin:
- Animal Shelters and Rescues: Check local animal shelters and rescue organisations. While Ragamuffins might not be as common in shelters as domestic shorthairs, there’s still a chance of finding one in need of a loving home.
- Breeders: Look for reputable Ragamuffin breeders in Malaysia and ensure they are registered with a recognized cat breeding association, follow ethical breeding practices and have done the necessary tests to screen for genetics-related health concerns. You can find breeders through online directories, cat shows, or recommendations from local veterinarians.
- Online Platforms: Websites and online forums (like mudah.my) dedicated to pets often have listings for Ragamuffin kittens or cats available for adoption or purchase. Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of sellers before making any commitments.
- Social Media: Platforms like Facebook or Instagram may have local groups or pages where breeders or individuals post about Ragamuffins available for adoption or sale.
Use Diligence
When adopting or purchasing a Ragamuffin, always prioritise the health and well-being of the cat. Ensure the seller provides health records, vaccinations, and proper documentation. It’s also essential to visit the cat in person, if possible, to assess its temperament and living conditions.
Conclusion
Living with a Ragamuffin cat is a rewarding experience, thanks to their affectionate and friendly nature. They thrive on social interaction and enjoy being part of family life. Their plush coat needs regular grooming, and they benefit from a stimulating indoor environment with toys and climbing opportunities. Though not highly active, they require regular playtime and exercise. Ragamuffins adapt well to various living situations and make wonderful companions for families, singles, and multi-pet households, offering loyalty and love in abundance.
| Pros of Ragamuffin Cats | Cons of Ragamuffin Cats |
|---|---|
Affectionate, friendly, gentle, social and great for families | Regular grooming required for their long fur |
Playful and engaging | Can be demanding of attention |
Beautiful appearance | Possibility of obesity |
FAQs
Most common questions about Ragamuffin Cats asked and possibly not covered by the above sections.
How much is a Ragamuffin cat in Malaysia?
Starts from RM3,000 to RM6,000 or more depending on factors such as the breeder, lineage, and overall quality of the cat.
Are Ragamuffin cats good with kids?
Yes, Ragamuffins are generally great with kids due to their gentle, friendly nature and patience, making them excellent family pets.
What makes Ragamuffins unique?
Ragamuffins are special for their affectionate nature, plush coats, striking eyes, and gentle temperament, offering endless love and companionship.
Are Ragamuffin cats high maintenance?
Ragamuffins require regular grooming and health care but are otherwise low-maintenance. Their affectionate nature and adaptability make them easy companions.
