What is the difference between a Exotic Shorthair and a Ragamuffin?

The Exotic Shorthair is 7–12 lbs sized while the Ragamuffin is 10–20 lbs sized. They differ in size (7–12 lbs vs 10–20 lbs), lifespan (8–15 years vs 12–16 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Exotic Shorthair or Ragamuffin?

Exotic Shorthair is generally good with kids. Ragamuffin is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Exotic Shorthair or Ragamuffin?

The Exotic Shorthair has a lifespan of 8–15 years while the Ragamuffin has a lifespan of 12–16 years.

Exotic Shorthair vs Ragamuffin — Breed Comparison

About the Exotic Shorthair

The Exotic Shorthair was developed in the 1950s–1960s by crossing Persians with American Shorthairs to create a Persian with a more manageable coat — essentially a "lazy man's Persian." This medium-to-large breed weighs 7–14 pounds and shares the Persian's flat face, round eyes, small ears, and stocky build. Their dense, plush coat stands away from the body like a teddy bear's and comes in all Persian colors and patterns — though it is far shorter and easier to maintain than the Persian's flowing mane.

Temperament & Personality

Exotic Shorthairs are sweet, gentle, and calm — they have the Persian's placid temperament with a slightly more playful edge inherited from their American Shorthair ancestry. They are quietly affectionate, preferring to sit near or on their favorite person without being demanding. They do well with gentle children and calm pets, making them ideal for relaxed households.

Pros

All the beauty of a Persian with far less grooming — weekly brushing suffices
Calm, gentle temperament — perfect for apartments and quiet homes
Affectionate and loyal without being demanding or vocal
Plush teddy-bear appearance is universally appealing

Cons

Brachycephalic (flat-faced) — prone to breathing difficulties, tear staining, and dental crowding
Susceptible to polycystic kidney disease (PKD) inherited from Persian lines
Eyes and facial folds require daily cleaning to prevent infections
Can be heat-sensitive due to shortened nasal passages

Love the Persian look without the grooming commitment? Find Exotic Shorthairs on Puplister.

About the Ragamuffin

The Ragamuffin emerged in the 1990s as a separate breed from the Ragdoll, developed by breeders who wanted to expand the gene pool and introduce a wider array of colors and patterns. This is a large, heavy cat — weighing 10–20 pounds — with a broad chest, substantial bone structure, and a plush, rabbit-soft coat that resists matting. Ragamuffins come in every color and pattern, including mink, sepia, solid, and bicolor variations not found in Ragdolls.

Temperament & Personality

Ragamuffins are exceptionally docile, trusting cats often described as "puppy-like" in their devotion. They greet visitors at the door, follow family members from room to room, and love being held — often going completely limp when picked up. Their patience and gentle nature make them outstanding companions for children and multi-pet households.

Pros

Incredibly gentle and patient — one of the best breeds for families with young children
Plush coat resists matting and requires only moderate grooming
Available in virtually every color and pattern imaginable
Adaptable and easygoing — adjusts well to new environments and routines

Cons

Large appetite and tendency toward obesity require careful portion control
Trusting nature means they have zero street smarts — strictly indoor only
Prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and polycystic kidney disease
Slow to mature — does not reach full size and coat until about four years old

Ready for a big, cuddly companion who adores everyone? Explore Ragamuffin cats looking for loving homes on Puplister.

Exotic Shorthair vs Ragamuffin