Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions about Ragdoll Cats
Question: What is HCM?
Answer: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.
HCM is a heart disease that can be found in ALL cats. Many breeders, including us, have been donating to research HCM in the Ragdoll cat, hoping to find the gene/genes responsable for HCM in the Ragdoll cat! WSU has found one mutated gene that causes HCM in the Ragdoll cat and one in the Maine Coon, which has also been found in a "few" Ragdolls as well. Here is what Washington State University has to say about the "known" mutation that cause HCM in the Ragdoll cat:
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common form of heart disease in the cat. In many breeds it is an inherited disease. Our laboratory has identified a mutation responsible for the gene in some cats. However, it should be noted that in human beings with the same disease, there are many different genetic mutations which can cause this disease. It is likely the same in the cat.
Very importantly, the absence of the mutation in this cat DOES NOT mean that it will never develop the disease. It means that it does not have the only known mutation that can cause the disease in the cat at this time. In the future, additional mutations may be identified that may be tested for as well.Cats that are positive for the test will not necessarily develop significant heart disease and die from the disease. Some cats will develop a very mild form of the disease and will live quite comfortably. We recommend annual evaluation by an echocardiogram and discussion with a veterinarian for treatment options if hypertrophy develops.
Importantly, breeding decisions should be made carefully. At this time we have observed about 23% Ragdoll cats that we have tested carry at least one copy of the gene. Removal of all of these cats from the breeding population could be very bad for the Ragdoll breed. Remember that HCM affected cats also carry other important good genes that we do not want to lose from the breed. We recommend not breeding the homozygous cats and, if needed, breeding heterozygotes to unaffected cats to decrease the risk of producing affected cats. As we move forward we should try to select more and more negative kittens from these lines to use for breeding. Keep in mind that we are continually learning about this disease and recommendations will be altered as we obtain more information.
We at Hushabyerags have been undergoing testing for the two known genes found in Ragdoll cats, one being predominently in Ragdolls and the other in Maine Coons. We do hope everyone is patient while we work hard to eliminate these genes from our Ragdolls. As of to date, we have found none of the cats to carry the gene predominently in Maine Coons.
Keep in mind that though some of the pos/het cats (carrying ONE copy of the known Ragdoll HCM gene) may have a shortened life, many others may never exibit any signs of HCM or mild signs later in life. We do not know why some show signs early and others not at all. Much more research needs to be done before we can begin to gleam the answers we all want, if at all.
We do hope that during this time of testing that people understand that this is not an automatic death sentence. We also hope that the few pos/het kittens are able to find the loving homes they deserve. Please give breeders time to get through this testing and be understanding as there has been a lot of heart ache for us to go along with it. Tough decisions have had to be made. Some will be bred and a negative kitten kept back. Others will simply be spayed/neutered.
While purchasing our breeders, we initially asked each breeder if there was any HCM in their lines. We got a NO from all. We do not, however, blame these breeders. They may have, in fact, never had a case of HCM or very few! Many of these same breeders are going through the same testing, heart ache etc. as we have. We are blessed that we now have the tools to test at least for the "known" gene that causes HCM in our Ragdolls.
Have a Ragdoll you would like tested for these mutations? You can get your test kit here WSU
Question: I heard Ragdolls do not shed. Is this True?
Answer: No, Ragdolls DO shed! Although Ragdolls shed quite a lot less as kittens, they do shed quite a bit. We have plenty of lint rollers around our house! We tend to choose lighter colors for every day wear because cat hair really shows on black!
Question: I heard Ragdolls do not matt. Is this true?
Answer: Yes and No. Some Ragdolls matt a lot. Others only matt under the armpits or during coat changes due to seasonal changes in the weather. Other Ragdolls do not really matt at all. Although we do try to breed for coats that do not matt, there will be the occasional Ragdoll that grows up that will matt to some extent. Grooming your Ragdoll once a week will help keep his/her coat in good condition.
Question: I have allergies to cats and heard Ragdolls are hypoallergenic. Is this true?
Answer: NO! There are plenty of myths about the Ragdoll and this particular one makes me the saddest. I hate to see a kitty re-homed because someone heard misinformation. If you have cat allergies, you will not likely be any less allergic to Ragdolls.
Question: I heard Ragdolls are all lap kitties. Is this true?
Answer: No. All Ragdolls are not lap kitties. I would say the majority are not lap kitties. They do, however, prefer to be with you. Ragdolls tend to follow their people from room to room. Many enjoy a good game of fetch with their people! They tend not to like to be shut out of a room you are in.
Question: I heard all Ragdolls are laid back. Is this true? Why is my Ragdoll kitten so hyper?
Answer: Ragdolls do not get their laid back demeanor until they are adults. A kitten is a kitten is a kitten and kittens just want to have fun! To expect your kitten to be laid back is like expecting a toddler to sit still.
Question: I heard Ragdolls do not meow. Is this true?
Answer: Yes and No. While some Ragdolls are very quiet and you can hardly hear their voices, others are quite talkative. I've had some big talkers and have very much enjoyed our conversations. Others can hardly be heard, so make sure they don't get shut in a closet or pantry! You may not be able to hear them calling for your attention.
Question: I heard males are much more affectionate then females. Is this true?
Answer: Each kitten, regardless of gender, has his or her own personality. While I do feel that "in general" females are more independent, you can't really pin a prejudice on boys or girls. We've had both affectionate males and affectionate females. We've also had more independent males. It's best to go by the individual kitten's personality!
Question: I heard if I got a male kitten, he'll spray. Is this true?
Answer: No. It is very rare for a kitten that has been early altered to start spraying. This usually only occurs when a cat is altered as an adult and has already learned to mark his territory. Many people do not realize that female cats can spray as well. This is a good reason to get a kitten that has already been altered young.
Question: Is it better to get two male kittens or a male and a female? I heard females do not get along.
Answer: It really makes no difference. Although two cats may end up with personality differences, regardless of gender, most all will get along when introduced as kittens. An adult cat will adjust to a kitten, regardless of gender, a lot faster then it will to another adult.
Question: My Ragdoll kitten's coat isn't very long or full. Is this normal?
Answer: Ragdolls start off with their kitten coats and you may not see their longer, more plush coats until around the age of eight months. While Ragdolls coats vary from cat to cat and some are longer or fuller then others, their coats can take some time to develop in to a nice plush coat. Give it some more time!
Question: Should I bathe my Ragdoll?
Answer: While many Ragdoll owners never have to bathe their cats, we recommend that you bathe them about once a month. This keeps them used to the bathing routine just in case they ever need a bath and it will be much less of a hassle if they are used to bathing. This also will help remove some of the loose hair. Make sure they do not have any matts in their fur before their bath because water will make it much worse! Brush your kitty out well and then bathe. Be careful not to get any water in their ears or soap in their eyes.
Question: Should I brush my Ragdoll's teeth? If so, why?
Answer: Yes! Just like we need to brush our teeth to keep them healthy, our kitties depend on us to do the same for them. They can build up plaque and tooth decay just as we can. You should use a brush and paste made specially for pets. They also make little wipes to wipe down their teeth if that is easier for you and your kitties to use. That will help keep their teeth in good shape! Starting brushing their teeth early on is a good idea so they are used to it, but it's never to late to get started!
Question: Will my Ragdoll cat scratch my furnature?
Answer: While we do everything possible to train our kittens to use a scratching post, the training does not stop with the breeder. You will need to continue working with your kitten at home. Providing mulitiple scratching posts and at least one climber with sisal rope is a good beginning. If you see your kitten scratching in an inappropriate area, pick the kitten up and place the paws on the scratching post. Most catch on rather quickly! Keep your kittens nails clipped and that will help as well. They do make nail caps that can be glued on if you are having problems with your kitten scratching. Your vet should be able to show you how to put them on.
Question: Is it true that Ragdolls feel no pain?
Answer: Ragdolls Do feel pain! There is no truth to this myth in the least. There are some strange ones out there!
Question: On No! My cat has gotten fleas. What should I do?
Answer: Even indoor kitties can get these little buggers because they can hop a ride on a person and invade your home. We use revolution and it has worked well for us. You can get revolution from your vet for your kitten's/cats age. Keep in mind that whatever you use can cause a reaction to different kitties. Just like with people, different cats can be sensitive to different medications. What works for one may not be good for another. Make sure you vacuum your home and furniture well. We only use flea medications as needed, when we actually see a flea or flea dirt. We do not treat them monthly.
Question: My cat wants to go outdoors. Should I let him?
Answer: No! So many cats are harmed or killed from being let outdoors. There are so many dangers, such as wild animals, dogs, other cats, vehicles, etc. There is also a chance of your kitty contacting diseases outdoors and also parasites. There is also a high chance of someone seeing your pretty Ragdoll and taking him home. Other people will not take kindly to your cat using their yard as a litter box and may capture him and take him to the humane society. We highly recommend that you raise your cats indoors only!
Question: Why does your contract state declawing is not allowed?
Answer: While some cats may get declawed and not have any issues, many many others have problems for life that can never be resolved. Many of these cats end up euthanized. It is not actually just the nail that is removed. Imagine your toes missing from the knuckles! These cats often end up in pain for life. Some of them refuse to use the litter box because the litter actually hurts their feet! They often become very fearful, aggressive cats. Many countries have laws against the declawing of cats! I sure wish ours did! We recommend at least one large cat climber and then scratching posts in every room for your kitty to use. The climbers and scratchers with the sisal rope are wonderful. They also have scratchers that are made from corrugated cardboard that the kitties really like. If your kitty scratches on furniture, calmly pick up your kitty and place his paws on a scratcher. Eventually they should get the idea. Some people have also had some luck with nail caps for their kitties such as soft paws. We recommend you keep your Ragdoll's nails clipped regularly. You can ask your breeder to show you how if you have not done it before.
Question: Should my Ragdoll wear a collar?
Answer: While some of our kitty owners put collars on their kitties, we recommend not using them. If the collar is too large, it can get caught around their jaw and can also pose a hazard with hanging. Also, collars can come off and be lost. A collar can also wear down the fur at the bib or cause knots. Never use a collar on your show kitty because even when the collar is removed, you can still see where it had been. We recommend micro chipping your Ragdoll. It is not too costly.
Question: What is TICA and CFA?
Answer: TICA stands for The International Cat Association. CFA stands for The Cat Fancier's Association. Our kittens and cats are mostly registered through TICA. They are both cat registry associations. The only way to guarantee the kitten you purchase is really a purebred is to have a registration slip, which can only be gotten if the parents are purebred cats. While CFA is the largest cat association in the US, most Ragdolls are registered through TICA, the second largest cat registry in the US. This is because CFA only accepted our bicolor Ragdolls for competition. This has only changed this year and now our mitted and colorpoints are accepted for competition in CFA shows as well! We expect more Ragdolls will be registered through CFA now! Your registration slip will allow you to register your new kittens name, as well as being proof that your new baby is a purebred cat.
Bringing Home Baby!
You will need:
A litter box, scoop and litter. We recommend you use the same type of litter pan and litter as the kitten is used to at the breeders home. This will keep them from getting confused and refusing their litter box. If you want to change litter or the type of box, we recommend you add a second box with the new litter, rather then just dumping the new litter in the old box or the old litter in a new box. When they are using the new litter and or box well, you can get rid of the old one.
Food, Water and Dishes: Do not change your kitten's food from what the breeder is feeding. This can cause tummy upsets and loose stools. Your new kitten is already stressed from new people and their new home and other changes. If and when you decide to change them over to a new food, do it slowly! Add a little of the new food, gradually, over time. We highly recommend keeping them on the same food for a couple months after bringing them home. We also recommend bottled or filtered water as water treatments cannot get rid of all parasites, such as giardia. As for dishes, we recommend using the metal or ceramic ones as some cats get acne, which can worsen by using plastic dishes.
Safe Room: You will want to have a quiet room set aside for your new baby. This helps them relax while they get used to the new smells and sights. We recommend keeping them in their safe room for about a week. Do not introduce them to resident pets right away. This should be done later and gradually. You can rub a towel on one kitty and then rub it on the other so they begin to get used to the smell of their new family member. You may also, later, take the kitten out of the safe room and place the resident pet in the safe room so they can again get used to the new smells.
Keeping your new kitten separated also assures that should your kitten come down with a cold, your resident kitties will not catch it. It's very common for a new kitten to come down with a cold due to the stress of the move during the first two weeks in his new home. Loose stools are also common due to stress. Give loose stools a week to clear up before becoming concerned. Should the loose stools not clear up, contact your vet for a fecal examination to rule out any parasites.
If at any time your new kitten should come down with an illness, please do contact your breeder and let them know right away. It is important to keep in touch with your breeder and let him/her know what is going on and not wait until a month later.
A Large Climber and Scratching Posts: We recommend at least one large cat climber and then scratching posts in every room for your kitty to use. The climbers and scratchers with the sisal rope are wonderful. They also have scratchers that are made from corrugated cardboard that the kitties really like. If your kitty scratches on furniture, calmly pick up your kitty and place his paws on a scratcher. Eventually they should get the idea. Your kitten is trained to scratch at a scratching post at the breeders home, but you will need to keep the training ongoing once you bring your new kitten home.
A Good Vet: You will want to set up an appointment to meet your kitten's new vet before bringing baby home. It's a good idea to find a vet you feel comfortable with. You will want to bring your kitten in to see your vet within the first 72 hours to keep from voiding any health guarantees. Your kitten should arrive healthy and free of parasites. Should your vet need to prescribe any medications during this first vet visit, the meds will likely be covered by your breeder. Should you wait longer then 72 hours to bring your kitten in to see the vet, the meds will likely no longer be covered as there is now way to say if the kitten was ill before or after leaving the breeder's home. Either way, do contact your breeder to alert them to any parasites or illnesses that may be in the cattery so the other kitties can be treated if necessary.
Toys We Recommend:
The Star Chaser. This fun toy has a ball that lights up that can be batted around the ring. The center of the ring has a cardboard scratcher too! Our kitties love this toy. The scratcher can be replaced and takes the same replacement piece as the Turbo Blaster. The Turbo Blaster is the same toy, only the ball does not light up. Both are great!
Feather Wands are another great toy our cats love! It's also great to get their attention while trying to take pictures. Da Bird is a type of feather wand on string that the cats go nuts for! You may want to get replacement parts for Da Bird as the kitties really have a blast with this one and can be rough on those feathers!
Mylar Balls. The kitties really love these crinkly cat toys. We recommend you get more then one because they sure do become lost under the couch quickly! They may even play a game of fetch with you!
Balls With Bells In Them. The kitties have a lot of fun batting balls around.
Laser Light Pen. Oh the fun! The kitties LOVE chasing the light. You will have a lot of fun playing with this toy with your kitty. We recommend you get the laser pen from the office supply store that takes regular batteries, rather then the light pens at the pet store. This just makes it easier to put in new batteries that you and kitty will surely wear out! The ones at the pet store take button type batteries that are harder to find replacements for.