A normal Ragdoll HCM genetic test result means that the cat does not have the respective genetic mutation. It is possible, that some cats may go on to develop cardiac disease due to other, as yet unidentified, genetic mutations.

A heterozygous Ragdoll HCM genetic test result means that the cat has one normal and one mutant copy of the MYBPC3 gene and may develop cardiac disease. These cats are still being bred from  at present to preserve much needed blood lines and to avoid reducing the gene pool too much which would be very harmful to the breed. These cats must be mated to HCM clear (normal) Ragdolls only, with the idea of keeping clear kittens from these matings to hopefully breed out heterozygous Ragdolls.

A homozygous Ragdoll HCM genetic test result means that the cat has two mutant copies of the MYBPC3 gene and is likely to develop cardiac disease. These cats must never be bred from. It is worth mentioning that even if a Ragdoll is homozygous for the HCM MYBPC3 gene, they can go on to live a long, healthy life without ever suffering from cardiac problems.

It is very important that people aren't put off from Ragdolls because of the risk of HCM. Genetics is only one cause and luckily we are now aware of this particular gene and can hopefully breed it out. HCM can also be caused by other genes that have yet to be discovered, nutrition and even other medical conditions such as thyroid problems. Cats with 1 or 2 genes could live their whole lives without any cardiac problems and a clear cat may go on the develop HCM if they are fed a poor diet or become ill with another condition that can lead on to HCM. Just like humans, cats can suffer from a variety of problems in their lives. HMC is just one of many and it doesn't just affect Ragdolls, it can affect any breed and even moggy or cross breed cats. It just depends on the cause. For more information please go to the FAB website, the link can be found on my links page.