About Ragdolls

Background and History

The Ragdoll cat breed was created in Riverside, California during the 1960s. Breeder Ann Baker had a friendly white domestic longhair cat named Josephine, who had a reputation for giving birth to kittens with extraordinarily amiable personalities. Baker collected a variety of longhair cats of different backgrounds, focusing on excellent temperament, luxurious coats with Himalayan points, and large size as she worked toward developing the breed that would ultimately become the Ragdoll. It is likely that some of the cats that formed the foundation for the Ragdoll breed were Persians, Burmese, and Birmans. Part of the reason for this is that Persians and Birmans are noted for their relaxed attitudes.

Josephine wasn't the only famous cat to contribute to the Ragdoll line. Two other cats included Blackie, who was a solid black cat with features reminiscent of the Burmese. Daddy Warbucks was another famous sire. He and Josephine had a bicolor female offspring named Fugianna. Meanwhile, a litter that resulted from a pairing between Blackie and Josephine resulted in a dark brown female with Burmese traits, who was named Buckwheat. All subsequent Ragdoll generations are descendants of litters that resulted from pairings between Daddy Warbucks and Buckwheat as well as Daddy Warbucks and Fugianna. They got their name due to the way most flop when picked up, resembling the ragdolls Raggedy Ann and Andy. Today, these beautiful felines are recognized by cat breed registries worldwide.

Ragdolls grow for five years. Because there has been inbreeding in the US, the cats have become much smaller than what they were originally. We have added males and females from Bulgaria and Germany to bring in  larger males and females, with championship lines, into our cattery in order to bring back some of that size. 

These gorgeous, sweet, easygoing, gentle, relaxed, and super loyal Ragdoll kitties live to bring joy. They love to cuddle.  While many cats are content to keep themselves entertained, Ragdolls actively seek the company of their favorite humans, following family members from one room to the next (or leading as the get to know your routine!). Ragdolls enjoy participating in daily life, often observing activities with happy expressions. They love screen time – TV, computer, iPad, your phone… They are interested in all of it. Because they are so highly intelligent, it is important to keep them mentally stimulated with your time and interactive toys. The Ragdoll will actually wait by the door for you to come home.

These kitties are one of a handful of cat breeds that like water, so they're likely to follow you to the shower or sit on the edge of the bathtub, where they'll keep you company and perhaps get their paws wet. I have one that drinks from his paw after dipping it into the water.

Ragdolls are known for their beautiful blue eyes and their flop when you pick them up. They make great snuggle partners! They will grow to be around 10 – 21 pound cats with the females being smaller than the males. Their height will be between 9” – 11” and will be 17” – 21” LONG. Their life expectancy is 18-20 years of age. They are large boned and large muscled.  It is important to have a quality food that supports joint and bone health, as well as their skin and beautiful hair. 

Even though they have long hair, they shed less than many short-haired cats. They do not have and undercoat, making them a low allergen cat.  There is no such thing as a hypoallergenic cat.  They are excellent groomers, though it is good to do the occasional brushing.

They love to play. They carry things in their mouths.  Little pompoms are great.  Throw one and they will fetch like a dog.  They enjoy the cat teasers.  And did I mention they love screen time?  They love the YouTube videos of birds, squirrels, etc. They love the cat apps on the phones. If the family is watching a movie together, your Ragdoll will be right with you. 

Ragdolls are vocal.  We have one that is a tattle-tale.  Any time something is out of place, if another pet has done something wrong, Cashmere is sure to be vocal about it.  

Ragdolls are tolerant to children and other animals.  We have dogs and cats together in our home with no issues.  

Common health problems that appear in Ragdolls cats include:

·  Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (heart disease)

·  Bladder stones

·  Feline Infectious Peritonitis

·  Feline Mucopolysaccharidosis (causes eye problems, joint difficulties or paralysis)

HunniPawz is a "TICA Outstanding Cattery of Excellence."  Our renewal is in March, when HunniPawz will hold the title. 

HunniPawz's breeding cats are genetically tested to ensure that our cattery is not only placing beautiful cats with wonderful temperaments, but cats that are assured genetically healthy. Our cats are screened routinely by a veterinarian and certified healthy. The veterinary practice we have chosen for our cattery specializes in reproductive health.  HunniPawz is a FIP, FIV and FeLV free facility.

Kittens may go to their forever homes when they are developmentally ready at 16 weeks. They are microchipped, litter box trained, well socialized, have had all age-appropriate veterinarian wellness checks, and are immunized. Males are neutered right at 16 weeks. Remaining females are spayed closer to 6 months. Kittens/Cats are guaranteed healthy leaving our cattery and come with a written 5-year genetic health guarantee. 

Through TICA, we have partnered with Trupanion to offer health insurance for your new family member that will take effect from the very first day your new little love is in your possession- no waiting period. This will cover 90% any unforeseen health event that may occur.  It does not cover routine well checks and immunizations.   

As an adoptive "parent", you will become a part of our cattery family with us offering life-time support.

We welcome questions. We love to educate. We love fitting the right pet to the right home.