Why we test - Explained

Genetic Testing: A Vital Part of Our Ragdoll Breeding Program

At Moonkitten, the health and well-being of our Ragdoll kittens is our top priority. As responsible breeders, we are committed to producing not only beautiful and well-tempered cats—but also genetically sound ones. That’s why genetic testing is a core part of our breeding protocol.

We believe that informed breeding leads to healthier cats, happier families, and the long-term preservation of the Ragdoll breed.

Why We Genetically Test All Our Breeding Cats

Genetic testing allows us to screen for inherited conditions that may not show up in regular veterinary exams. This proactive approach helps us:Every Ragdoll we breed has been carefully screened for the most relevant hereditary conditions in the breed.

Conditions We Test For:

We test for the most Common Hereditary Conditions in Ragdolls


1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), The most serious genetic concern in Ragdolls.
A heart disease that causes thickening of the heart muscle, potentially leading to heart failure or sudden death. Carriers may never show symptoms, so testing is the only way to identify risk.
2. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
Although less common in Ragdolls than in Persians, PKD can still appear due to crossbreeding in earlier bloodlines. It causes fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure over time. Genetic testing allows for early detection and prevention through selective breeding.

Why This Matters to You as a Kitten Buyer
Choosing a kitten from gentetically tested lines means:
You’re starting with the best possible foundation for a healthy, happy cat
You’ll have peace of mind knowing your kitten comes from a health-focused, ethical breeding program
You’ll receive documentation of testing results, so you know exactly what’s been done

At Moonkitten, we don’t just care about placing kittens—we care about supporting our families for life, and that begins with honest, science-backed breeding practices.

A Healthier Future for the Ragdoll Breed

Genetic testing helps us contribute to the long-term health and preservation of this amazing breed. By selecting only healthy, tested cats for our breeding program, we help ensure that future generations of Ragdolls remain strong, loving, and free from preventable genetic illness.If you're considering adding one of our kittens to your family, you can rest assured you're choosing a kitten with a thoughtfully managed genetic background and lifelong support.

Questions about our genetic testing protocols?
We’re happy to share our process and test results with you. Please don’t hesitate to contact us—we love talking about our cats and how we raise them with care, science, and heart.