Embarking on the journey of raising and breeding cats, especially pedigree breeds like Ragdolls and British Shorthairs, is a labor of love that requires dedication, knowledge, and a deep appreciation for these feline companions. My own passion for cats began in my teenage years, a journey that led from a household of dogs to a profound love for kittens and eventually, to the meticulous world of selective breeding. This path has been shaped by a commitment to health, temperament, and the unique characteristics that define these beloved breeds.
The Allure of Ragdolls
My initial fascination with Ragdolls stemmed from their reputation as gentle giants, even amidst a childhood filled with dogs. Encouraged by my mother’s love for animals, I nurtured my interest in caring for and fostering kittens. By sixteen, I had acquired my first pedigree cat, a Himalayan seal point. This early experience with my first cat, crossbred with a Scottish Fold, provided invaluable lessons as I delved deeper into understanding feline genetics and care.
Later, my husband Josh and I decided to focus on high-quality, show-line Ragdolls. This led to a deeper understanding of what truly defines the breed: a luxuriously soft, “bunny-like” coat, a placid and gentle temperament, and those captivating, deep blue eyes. Our breeding program became centered on selecting for optimal health, a sweet disposition, and sound physical structure. A significant aspect of our approach involves a strong emphasis on nutrition, particularly incorporating raw feeding, which has demonstrably improved the health and vitality of our cats.
Embracing the British Shorthair
As our dedication to Ragdolls grew, I began to consider a complementary breed that would appeal to adopters seeking a similar temperament but a distinct appearance. This exploration led me to the British Shorthair. Their striking golden coloring, particularly the rich orange hues, captivated me from the moment I encountered them through a popular Instagram account. While I occasionally receive inquiries about silver or other color variations, my heart remains set on the warm, golden tones—they are, by far, my favorite.
Initially, my focus was exclusively on long-haired cats, appreciating their regal, “fluffy little lion” appearance. However, through a trusted breeder friend, I was introduced to shorthaired British Shorthairs. To my surprise, I found myself equally enchanted by them. Beyond their lower grooming needs, I discovered that shorthairs often possess an exceptionally easygoing, well-mannered, and pleasant nature. While longhairs remain a cornerstone of my breeding program, and I still haven’t definitively chosen a preference between the two, the shorthairs have certainly won a special place in my heart.
Commitment to Temperament and Health
A primary objective in my British Shorthair program has been to move away from the stereotype of the breed being a more “aloof showpiece.” I have dedicated significant effort to producing British kittens that are not only visually stunning but also deeply affectionate, cuddly, and integrate seamlessly into family life. My breeding decisions prioritize stable personalities and robust health above all else. I meticulously select lines known for their consistency and low maintenance requirements, both emotionally and physically, ensuring our kittens are set up for a happy and healthy life.
At home, Josh and I operate as a unified team, managing every aspect of our cats’ lives—from daily feeding and chores to litter box training and enrichment activities. Our commitment means we don’t travel extensively, preferring to be present for our feline family. We believe in not cutting corners, making deliberate choices about where to invest our resources to provide our cats with the healthiest, happiest start possible. This holistic approach ensures that every kitten leaving our care embodies the best qualities of its breed, ready to bring joy and companionship to its new home.
