Breed Standards

  Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)  is a retrovirus similar to HIV in humans. It is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected cats, usually via biting. In the final stage, the cat's immune system is severely compromised, making them highly susceptible to secondary infections, autoimmune diseases, and cancers such as lymphoma and leukemia. Common symptoms include lethargy, chronic infections, skin problems, mouth inflammation, and neurological disorders.  

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Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)  FeLV is a retrovirus that affects cats. It is transmitted through direct contact with infected cats, typically through saliva, milk, or in utero. It can also be spread through biting, grooming, or sharing food and water bowls.  FeLV causes a variety of health problems, including anemia, immunosuppression, and increased risk of infections and cancers such as lymphoma.   

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Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a heart condition that can cause a cat's heart muscles to thicken, reducing the heart's efficiency. Symptoms can appear in other parts of the body, and include:  Labored, rapid, or open-mouthed breathing, lethargy, difficulty eating, fainting, and pain in their hind legs. 

HCM is more common Ragdolls. This is why at Ragdoll Tales, our breeding cats are genetically  tested for HCM prior to entering the breeding program.

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Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder in cats that causes fluid-filled sacs, or cysts, to develop in the kidneys. Symptoms include increased thirst and urination, nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, weight loss, lethargy, and blood in the urine.  PKD is caused by a genetic anomaly that is most common in Persian cats.  PKD is caused by a genetic anomaly that is most common in Persian cats. At Ragdoll Tales, our breeding cats are genetically  tested for PKD prior to entering the breeding program.   

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FVRCP is a combination vaccine that protects cats against three serious airborne viruses: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia.  It is a core vaccine, which means veterinarians recommend it for all cats regardless of their lifestyle.  

What diseases does it prevent?

1. Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR): 
   • An upper respiratory infection causing eye problems, sneezing, nasal discharge, and fever
   • Can remain dormant in cats and flare up during stress

1. Calicivirus (FCV): 
   • Causes respiratory symptoms and painful mouth ulcers
   • Some rare strains can cause severe, potentially fatal illness

1. Panleukopenia: 
   • Also known as feline distemper
   • Most dangerous of the three diseases
   • Causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased white blood cells
   • Can be fatal, especially in kittens

When should cats get vaccinated?

• Kittens: First shot at 6-8 weeks, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old
• Adult cats with unknown vaccine history: Two shots, 3-4 weeks apart
• Indoor cats: Typically every 3 years after initial series
• Outdoor cats or those exposed to other cats: Usually annually
• Consult your veterinarian for a personalized schedule

Are there side effects?

• Side effects are generally mild and may include: 
  • Slight swelling at injection site
  • Low-grade fever
  • Decreased appetite
  • Mild lethargy
• These typically resolve within a few days

Why is it important?

• These diseases are extremely contagious between cats
• They can be serious or fatal, especially in kittens
• Indoor cats still need protection as the viruses are very common
• Prevention is safer and more effective than treatment

Many plants are poisonous or toxic to cats and kittens.  Depending on the plant species, symptoms of can vary greatly.  Irritation around the mouth, itchiness, swelling, and red or watery eyes.  If your cats' organs have been affected by ingesting a toxic plant, symptoms of poisoning may include: breathing difficulties, drooling, difficulties swallowing, excessive drinking, frequent urination, overall weakness, or irregular heartbeat.  Gastrointestinal symptoms may include: vomiting and diarrhea.  If you notice your Ragdoll eating any plant that you're unsure of, call your vet.  For list of common plants which are poisonous to cats, click here. 

Cats are part of the family, so you may be tempted to share a few pieces of food with them.  But the truth is that many human foods are toxic or even deadly for cats.  If you suspect your cat ate any of the foods listed in this link, call your vet immediately.   

Declawing is not like a manicure. It is serious surgery. Your cat's claw is not a toenail. It is actually closely adhered to the bone. So closely adhered that to remove the claw, the last bone of your the cat's claw has to be removed. Declawing is actually an amputation of the last joint of your cat's "toes". When you envision that, it becomes clear why declawing is not a humane act. It is a painful surgery, with a painful recovery period. 

If your cat is scratching things you preferred it didn't, there are humane steps you can take - Learn more

 Common Causes:  Cats may avoid the litter box due to cleanliness issues, stress, location preferences, surface or litter aversion, or past negative experiences.  Improper setup in multi-cat households could contribute to elimination problems.

Preventative Measures:  Keep litter boxes clean, use unscented clumping litter or pine, and provide enough boxes (one per cat plus one extra).  Place litter boxes in quiet, accessible areas with multiple escape routes.  Addressing Existing Issues:   Use enzymatic cleaners to remove odors and discourage repeat accidents.  Offer multiple litter and box options to identify your cat’s preferences.  Minimize household stressors.  

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Even cats that never venture outside are still at risk for intestinal parasites like tapeworms and roundworms. At Ragdoll Tales, your kitten will come dewormed.  The products that we use for deworming are safe and effective, applied every 3 weeks until they are 12 weeks old.  It's recommended that every cat should be dewormed every month until they are 6 months, and every 6 months after that -  even if they're an indoor cat.  

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 Whether pet insurance is worth it depends on your budget, comfort level, and how much you're willing to pay for your pet's care.  If you can afford the monthly premium, pet insurance is a good idea to assist in the potential high cost of medical bills associated with surgeries, therapies, dental care, and alternative therapies in the event your cat needs it.  Ragdoll Tales does not receive compensation from any pet insurer, however we do partner with Trupanion to offer the first 30 days free for anyone that purchases a kitten through us (excludes New York and Florida.)   

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 The vet standard is to spay and neuter at five to six months. This allows time for kittens to accept their owners and their weight to reach a level where anesthesia and surgery are safe.  

There are significant health benefits of performing this procedure:

-  Prevents infections and cancer.

- Prevents unwanted behavior, such roaming, urine spraying, and aggression.  

- Reduces fighting with other cats. 

- Cats are less likely to escape from the house to breed.

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 Ragdolls are very compatible with other dogs.  They are a good choice for households with multiple pets. Ragdoll Tales has many examples of customers who have successfully paired their new ragdoll kitty with an existing dog at home.  Ragdolls are often described as "dog-like", have a tendency to trail behind its owner, roll over for belly rubs, and even fetch.

Ragdolls can not be considered hypoallergenic because like all cats, they produce Fel d 1 protein in their saliva, skin, and urine, which is the primary casue of cat allergies. That being said, Ragdoll cats may be a better choice for people with allergies because they produce fewer allergenic proteins than other breeds.  Other good news is that studies show that feeding cats a food containing anti‐Fel d1‐ IgY from chicken eggs was able to significantly reduce the active Fel d1 on the cats' hair. In the current study, 86% of the cats showed a reduction in aFel d1 of at least 30%, and half the cats showed a reduction of at least 50%. 

Yes, Ragdoll cats shed, but not as much as other breeds because they lack an undercoat. Their fur is incredibly soft, silky and smooth like a bunny. They shed the most during the spring and fall when the seasons change. 

Things you can do to reduce fur shedding are:
- Brush regularly which removes loose fur and helps distribute natural oils.

- Bathe to remove dead hair but don't do this too much or it will remove the natural oils. 

- Diet - ensure meals have enough proteins, essential fatty acids to improve your kitty's skin and coat. 

- Vacuum - regularly vacuuming will help manage whatever is left. We have a robot vacuum that is tremendously helpful and does the work for us. 

Ragdoll cats are considered relatively low maintenance despite their medium-long fur. They shed less than breeds with thicker undercoats.  You should brush your Ragdoll cat at least once a week, but ideally twice a week.  Brushing your Ragdoll's coat removes dirt, grease, and dead skin, and promotes blood circulation and a healthy coat. It can also help reduce shedding and matting.  Start by brushing areas that are more likely to mat, like the back of the legs and tummy. Use a comb with soft bristles or a slicker brush, and brush the hair towards the tail. This is a bonding experience between you and your Ragdoll, so feel free to do this as often as you like.  

Ragdolls are the second largest domesticated cat breeds after the maincoon. They grow rapidly during their first year reaching 60-80% of their final size during this period.  Fully-grown females weigh from 8 to 15 pounds. Males are substantially larger, ranging from 12 to 20 pounds. It can take up to four years for a Ragdoll to reach mature size. Due to their size, make sure that you buy larger sized litter boxes so they can comfortably use it. Since Ragdolls prefer to be lap pets, and snuggle, they can tend to get over weight so make sure to not over feed them as they get older.  

 Ragdoll cats are renowned for their affectionate, gentle, and easygoing temperament, making them ideal companions for families, singles, and seniors alike.  Ragdolls are tolerant and patient.  Known for their "floppy" nature, Ragdolls often go limp when held, a trait that inspired their name. Having 3 small children I can attest to their endless patience of being handled, cuddled, smooched, pulled, pushed in strollers, swaddled like a baby and the list goes on and on.  Ragdolls are affectionate and loving,  often called "puppy-like" cats because they form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being close to them. They love human interaction and their favorite thing is to sit in your lap or curl up beside you.  They are calm and gentle.  These cats have a laid-back demeanor, rarely showing aggression. They’re great with children and other pets, including dogs, as they adapt well to multi-pet households.  Ragdolls are social and people-oriented. They thrive on social interaction and don't do well when left alone for long periods. They’re happiest in homes where they get plenty of attention and companionship. This is why if you have a busy lifestyle, I highly recommend you buy them as a pair.  Ragdolls are Intelligent and Trainable. Their willingness to please make them highly trainable.  They can learn tricks, play fetch, and some even come when called.  

Yes, Ragdolls are exceptionally good with children! Their gentle, patient, and affectionate nature makes them an ideal choice for families. They enjoy being handled and are known for their "floppy" demeanor, which means they often go limp when picked up, making them easy to cuddle. Ragdolls are tolerant and rarely display aggression, even when children are energetic or curious.  Having 3 small children I can attest to their endless patience of being handled, cuddled, smooched, pulled, pushed in strollers, swaddled like a baby and the list goes on and on. Their calm temperament and playful yet non-aggressive nature help them adapt well to households with kids, creating a loving and harmonious environment. Just be sure to teach your children how to handle pets gently since we want our babies to be treated well and avoid injury.  

Ragdolls are indoor cats for their safety and well-being.  The same reasons they make amazing gentle companions make them ill-equiped for the dangers of the outdoors.  They are trusting and laid back and lack the aggressive instincs of outdoor cats.  Outdoor environments expose cats to various risks, including diseases, parasites, and toxic plants.  Because of their striking beauty and friendly nature, Ragdolls are more susceptible to being stolen if left unsupervised outdoors.  If you’d like your Ragdoll to experience the outdoors, there are a few safe ways to do it.  Take them outside on a leash with a harness.  Provide a secure outdoor cat enclosure or "catio" where they can enjoy fresh air safely, or set up a window perch for them to watch the world outside. 

Yes! For many seniors, socializing can become more challenging over time. A cat provides constant companionship, ensuring that there’s always a presence in the home. A friendly Ragdoll can fill your days with joy, laughter, and love. Ragdolls are known for their affectionate nature; they thrive on human interaction and will follow you from room to room, enjoying your company just as much as you enjoy theirs.  It’s no secret that loneliness can take a toll on anyone, especially seniors.  They love to be around their people, curling up next to them or on their laps. With their calm demeanor and eagerness to bond, a Ragdoll can be a steadfast friend who helps you feel more connected and less isolated.  While all cats generally require less maintenance than dogs, Ragdolls are especially suitable for seniors due to their relaxed, easygoing nature. They’re known to be gentle and tolerant, and they don’t demand high levels of exercise. 

 The answer lies in the immense love, effort, and dedication required to bring these beautiful, affectionate companions into the world.  Ragdoll breeders don’t simply pair two cats and hope for the best. They invest years into developing their breeding lines to ensure kittens meet the highest standards. This means costly Health Testing.  Ragdoll Tales screens parent cats for genetic conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and polycystic kidney disease (PKD). This ensures that kittens inherit the healthiest genes possible.  We also provide Regular Vet Checkups to monitor growth and health;  Vaccinations to protect against common feline diseases;  and Microchipping to identify your Ragdoll in the event it is lost.  This level of veterinary care ensures that you’re bringing home a healthy, happy kitten, but it also adds significantly to the cost of raising each cat.  We carefully choose parent cats with desirable personalities and physical traits, which can take generations and financial investment to perfect. Ragdoll Tales makes investments in high quality care. We provide  Premium Nutrition -  High-quality food and supplements to ensure kittens grow strong and healthy.   Specialized Living Conditions - Ragdoll Tales invested in a dedicated spacious and clean environment with plenty of enrichment to support physical and mental well-being. Ethical Breeding Practices -  Unlike backyard breeders or kitten mills, ethical breeders prioritize quality over quantity. We follow strict guidelines to ensure the health and well-being of our cats. By breeding only a few litters per year we avoid overburdening parent cats as a tradeoff of reduced profit.  In the end, I'm sure you will agree that they’re worth every penny.  

 The answer lies in the immense love, effort, and dedication required to bring these beautiful, affectionate companions into the world.  Ragdoll breeders don’t simply pair two cats and hope for the best. They invest years into developing their breeding lines to ensure kittens meet the highest standards. This means costly Health Testing.  Ragdoll Tales screens parent cats for genetic conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and polycystic kidney disease (PKD). This ensures that kittens inherit the healthiest genes possible.  We also provide Regular Vet Checkups to monitor growth and health;  Vaccinations to protect against common feline diseases;  and Microchipping to identify your Ragdoll in the event it is lost.  This level of veterinary care ensures that you’re bringing home a healthy, happy kitten, but it also adds significantly to the cost of raising each cat.  We carefully choose parent cats with desirable personalities and physical traits, which can take generations and financial investment to perfect. Ragdoll Tales makes investments in high quality care. We provide  Premium Nutrition -  High-quality food and supplements to ensure kittens grow strong and healthy.   Specialized Living Conditions - Ragdoll Tales invested in a dedicated spacious and clean environment with plenty of enrichment to support physical and mental well-being. Ethical Breeding Practices -  Unlike backyard breeders or kitten mills, ethical breeders prioritize quality over quantity. We follow strict guidelines to ensure the health and well-being of our cats. By breeding only a few litters per year we avoid overburdening parent cats as a tradeoff of reduced profit.  In the end, I'm sure you will agree that they’re worth every penny.  

Yes!  While many prospective cat parents might consider bringing home just one kitten, there are numerous benefits to adopting them in pairs.  1. Enhanced Socialization - Kittens learn essential social skills from their littermates, including bite inhibition, appropriate play behavior, and understanding social cues. When kittens are adopted in pairs, they continue to develop and refine these skills together. This ongoing interaction helps them become more well-adjusted and sociable pets, which can lead to fewer behavioral issues as they grow older.  2. Abundant Exercise and Play - Kittens are bundles of energy that require plenty of stimulation. A pair of kittens can provide this for each other through constant play. They chase, pounce, and wrestle, engaging in natural and vigorous activities that keep them entertained. This not only burns off their energy but also reduces the likelihood of them resorting to destructive behavior out of boredom.  3. Companionship and reduced loneliness - Kittens are inherently social animals. When left alone for extended periods, a solitary kitten can become lonely and stressed, potentially leading to anxiety and related health issues. A sibling or another kitten offers companionship and emotional support, resulting in happier and healthier cats.  4. Smoother Transition to a New Home - Moving to a new home can be an overwhelming experience for a kitten. Having a familiar companion can significantly ease this transition. The presence of a sibling or another kitten provides a sense of security and comfort, making the adaptation to their new environment smoother and less frightening.  5. Increased Mental Stimulation - Two kittens can keep each other mentally stimulated through interactive play, which is crucial for their cognitive development. Engaging in complex play activities helps stimulate their minds, leading to more intelligent and well-behaved cats. This mental stimulation also helps prevent boredom and its associated problems.  6. Fewer Behavior Problems - Kittens that have ample opportunities for social interaction and play are less likely to develop behavioral issues such as aggression, excessive meowing, or inappropriate scratching. They learn boundaries and proper behavior through their interactions with each other, leading to a more harmonious household.  7. Physical Health Benefits - Active play between kittens is a great form of exercise that helps maintain their physical health. Regular physical activity can prevent obesity and related health issues, keeping them fit and healthy. Wrestling, chasing, and pouncing are all excellent ways for kittens to stay active.  8. Easier for Owners - While adopting two kittens might seem like it would double the work, it’s barely noticable. You already have to put out food, water, litter, its not much more effort to increase the amount. It can actually make other things easier for the owners. Kittens can entertain each other, reducing the need for constant human interaction and supervision. Owners can enjoy watching their playful antics and benefit from having two well-adjusted pets.

Unfortunately, not all breeders are ethical both in the way they raise kittens or the way they conduct business. Here is a list of questions to ask the prospective breeder: 

1) Are you registered with TICA and CFA? These are the official cat organizations that require strict breeding guidelines. You can check yourself on these official links TICA  CFA LCWW

2) Ask for official documentation: TICA registration and pedigree records back 5 generations.

3) When does the kitten go home?  Kittens should not go home before 12 weeks of age

4) Does your cattery allow visitations? You can't truly know the environment the kitten is raised in without seeing it for yourself - despite what a breeder may claim.  It should be clean, spacious and pass the "gut-check". 

5) Does the breeder offer a 5 year genetic health guarantee?

6) Are the kittens offered for sale no earlier than 12 weeks of age?

7) Is the kitten well socialized? 

8) What immunizations does the kitten have? Kittens should come with at least 2 FVRCP vaccinations prior to taking it home. 

9) Is the kitten microchipped?

10) Were the parents tested for HCM and PKD, FIV and FeLV?

11) Has the kitten been dewormed every 3 weeks?

Additional Things to Check 

12) Check reviews on Google and Yelp

13) Ask for a formal purchase agreement (contract)

14) Be wary of unrealistic prices.  Extremely low prices are a warning sign of fraud.