Common Ragdoll Cat Health Problems: A Proactive Owner’s Guide
While generally healthy, Ragdolls are predisposed to a few genetic conditions. A reputable breeder will always test for these:
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This is the most significant health concern, a form of heart disease where the heart muscle thickens.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A condition that causes cysts to form in the kidneys, potentially leading to failure.
Before bringing a kitten home, always ask the breeder for documented proof that both parent cats have been screened clear for HCM and PKD. This is the single most important step you can take to ensure a healthy future for your cat.
Bottom Line: HCM and PKD are the main concerns, but testing the parents drastically reduces the risk.
