The Ragamuffin is a relatively recent cat breed that originated through periodic breeding of Ragdolls with Himalayans and Persians. A large cat, the Ragamuffin weighs in the range of ten to twenty pounds, with males typically being heavier than females. It is a somewhat rare and expensive breed at the moment. This is largely owing to its relatively recent recognition and development, not to mention the sublime beauty and appeal of this felid. Like the Ragdoll, Ragamuffin is one of the most sought after domestic cats. Like other large cats, Ragamuffins take time to develop, reaching full size by around four years of age. Thy have a rectangular profile with strong chest and shoulders. Heavily boned and well muscled, they often have a fatty pad on abdomen though they are not obese. Fur is long and silky with a prominent neck ruff and plush tapering tail. A broad variety of coat colors and patterns exists. Eyes are large and expressive. There is a nose dip and whisker pad is puffy, adding to the cat’s sweet facial expression.

Despite similarities, certain differences do exist between Ragamuffins and Ragdolls. The former have a rounder skull with a slightly fuller face and tilted ears. Eyes are walnut shaped in contrast to the oval eyes of Ragdolls. Also Ragamuffins are allowed to breed outside their stock every fifth generation to prevent continuous inbreeding and maintain genetic variety. Ragamuffins are docile and gentle cats. They are non-aggressive and should not be allowed outdoors unsupervised. Still they are active and quite fond of playing with their toys and fetching them and climbing scratch posts. They show a very affectionate attitude towards people and lovingly follow them around the house. Ragamuffins are not demanding and do not require daily grooming. Their rabbit like fur does not matte easily and they have no particular health problems in their lines.

Cornish Rex is a feline breed that was first reported in the mid of twentieth century in ‘Cornwall’ United Kingdom when a very unique looking kitten was seen in a domestic cat litter. This baby was a result of genetic mutation and displayed a singular appearance. It had no outer hair and a different body type than other cats. The striking appearance aroused interest and breeding of this felid was started in earnest. Earlier efforts were not quite successful and it took some time before healthy cats with consistent attributes were seen regularly in litters. During their development, Cornish Rex cats were outcrossed with Siamese to give them the elegant body form they currently possess. Today they enjoy widespread recognition in most parts of the world.

Cornish Rex cats have a very lithe yet muscular appearance. They may appear somewhat fragile owing to their slender, almost hairless, bodies but are in fact quite hard and strong in their physical make-up. Legs are long and finely built and enable the cat to produce great bursts of speed in no time. Head is small with prominent cheek bones and big ears. Coat is incredibly soft and made up entirely of down hair, or the undercoat. They are curly and smooth and shed very little, leading to fewer allergies for their owners. A number of coat colors and patterns are seen.

Even as they are quite similar to the Devon Rex in appearance, there are certain differences between the two. First is the mutant gene that leads to the characteristic appearance of the Cornish Rex – this differs from the mutated gene of the Devon Rex. Second the Devon Rex has the outer coat of guard hair that Cornish Rex cats lack. Still the Cornish Rex coat is denser. Also the facial appearance is a little different, with the Cornish sporting a distinct Roman nose in contrast to the Devon. Cornish Rex have one of the best personalities of all feline breeds. They are very active and energetic and continue their playful behavior throughout their lives.