Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common genetic heart disease in all cats. The disease causes thickening of the heart wall, witch makes the heart pump less efficiently. In Ragdolls homozygous positive for the disease, the condition can present as young as six months, with most cats dying by the age of three years. Heterozygous cats tend to have later onset and slower progression of the disease. In 2007 a DNA test was developed to identify the gene that causes HCM. Breeding only from Ragdolls that are free from this gene will ensure that they will not develop the form of HCM associated with it. All of our cats are screened for the HCM genetic mutation prior to entering our breeding program.

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       Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a disorder that affects the kidneys and other organs. Clusters of fluid-filled sacs, called cysts, develop in the kidneys and interfere with their ability to filter waste from the blood. The growth of cysts causes the kidneys to become enlarged and can lead to kidney failure (Diseases and Management in the Multiple-Cat Environment, Pedersen). In cats polycystic kidney disease is an inherited disease. (source: Feline Advisory Bureau). We will test all our cats for PDK disease before using them for breeding. 

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Literature
New trends in feline breeding, Daniela Jasmin Busse
The complete book of cat breeding, Dan Rice
Robinson's Genetics for Cat Breeders and Veterinarians, Carolyn M. Vella
Feline Husbandry: Diseases and Management in the Multiple-Cat Environment, Pedersen 
DVM phD, Niels C.
The International Cat Association
The Cat's Financiers Association
Wikipedia
Feline Advisory Bureau, Cat Care 

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All of our breeders are DNA tested HCM and PKD negative (N/N).