There are cat breeders and then there’s Linn Currie.  The common saying “it’s really the cat’s house – we just pay the mortgage” is a perfect description of the Currie’s home.  Raglin Rag-dolls is not a cattery but a home to a charming family (Linn, Robert, their cats and Ambir).

Linn, like any responsible mother, ensures the safety of all her “children” yet not one is locked in a cage.  Her studs have their own cabins and their own patch of garden.  The rest are free to roam the safe courtyard and sleep inside their home, where they please.

I believe that Linn does not see breeding Ragdolls as a job nor as a “profit-making scheme”.  Rather she does it for her love these magnificent cats and the joy they bring to her life.  I believe that she wants to share these amazing miracles with others who are able to give a safe and loving home.  Some may think Linn is too selective about who can adopt one of her precious kittens but, as I’m sure any caring mother will agree, only the best is good enough for her children.

Even though the kittens remain with Linn for at least 14 weeks, you don’t miss out on the opportunity of watching you baby grow and develop.  Every Saturday morning is visit time where you are able to play and spend time with your baby and his/her littermates.  Not to forget the numerous e-mails of any new developments between visits.

I was privileged enough to be able to adopt a beautiful baby girl from Linn.  She is absolutely gorgeous and my family loves her to bits.  In fact, I think she’s more my Mom’s kitten than mine but you never have to worry about her not getting enough attention, care or love.

Thank you, Linn for your advice.

Thank you for always making me feel at home during my countless visits.

Most of all … THANKS FOR ELLA!

Roxane N., Johannesburg (2005)

 

This is a dedication to Linn Currie, a breeder that is a pedigree apart.  

I have never dealt with such a professional yet warm, caring person in all my dealings with breeders. From the moment I e-mailed her regarding some kittens that were available, the communication has remained. Once I got through the interview process and was selected as an adoptive mother to two Ragdoll kittens, she kept me informed of the kittens’ progress almost on a daily basis. I was able to visit the kittens every Saturday at her house (actually the house belongs to the cats!), which started the bonding process, not only with the kittens themselves but also with Linn.

I had two Persian cats previously that died of sickness and old age, and I vowed to never let any animal close to my heart again because it is too emotionally expensive. BUT I have never looked back once my decision was made to get two Ragdolls cats. They are the most intelligent, lovable cats, very expressive and yet laid-back at the same time. They play “fetch” just like a dog would with a ball. The kittens came home with me at 14 weeks of age and handled the transition comfortably. I was so impressed at how well adjusted they were, both socially and emotionally.

Linn is a mine of information and anything I need to know, she is always there to help with ad-vice, never tiring of my endless, repetitive questions. She helped me with advice on how to make my house “cat escape” proof, which made for less stress on me when they came home. She puts her all into raising beautiful kittens that are so confident due to her patience and loving. She lives and breathes for her cats. I brought the kittens home, complete with pedigrees and a box full of brand new toys for them from “Grandma Linn”. All she asks in return is that I keep her informed on a daily basis with pictures of them and how they are doing for the first few weeks, thereafter to keep her informed on a monthly basis. I have not only gained two kittens, but also a friendship with Linn that I treasure.

Once again, Linn, I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to have two of the most beautiful kittens (a mother is always biased!!) that I love dearly. My heart is beating once again thanks to Linn and my two feline babies.

I think all the breeders in this country can take a leaf out of Linn’s book and learn something that is not seen so often, but yet is so valuable – how to be a caring breeder who doesn’t see her cats as money making machines but lovable felines who give people something to live and care for.

Bev W., Johannesburg (2005) 

Two years ago I was tempted to use a local cat breeder as her price was a third of that of  Ragdolls and her kittens were available from six weeks old.  I thought this was great and the kitten could spend its early days with me.  I was sure that irresponsible breeders didn’t exist.  Well they do!  My kitten not only had ear mites but also a fatal stomach disease, which resulted in me having to put her down after six months.  Devastating to say the least! 

After this traumatic experience, we decided to go for the best.  Linn Currie’s love for her animals and reputation for quality kittens is well known and we certainly weren’t disappointed.  When our kittens arrived, they were well adjusted, oozed confidence and fitted into the family immediately.  As for their health and condition, they were nothing short of perfection.  At their compulsory contractual veterinary check-up, our vet said he had not seen such healthy specimens.  He commented on how he wished all breeders would put that much care and devotion into their breeds.

We are overjoyed at the never-ending pleasure these babies bring to our family as a whole.  Our Raglin babies have crept into our hearts and that of everybody who comes to visit our home.

We are over the moon with our Ragdolls and would recommend Linn’s Ragdolls to anyone.  That is, anyone that would give these kittens nothing but the best there is.

Thank you Linn for the most wonderful additions to our family.  We feel responsible for all the Ragdolls out there – they own our hearts now.

Paul & Laura F., Pietermaritzburg (2005)

Breeder's Note :  Sir Lucan (Oliver) is strictly pet quality and was sold as such.  A legal contract exists between the Breeder and the Buyer, wherein it is stated that he may not be shown.  Awards given to him by the cat judges were, what I presume, given in ignorance, and not deserved. 

After much deliberation about taking on the responsibility of adopting a kitten, I decided to do some www browsing to make sure I selected the correct breed for our family.  I wanted a kitten that would grow up to be a wonderful companion, one who would be affectionate and patient.  It goes without saying why I then, settled on a Ragdoll.  My daughter made contact with Linn, as they wanted to surprise me with a Ragdoll for my birthday.

Needless to say we were quite surprised at the waiting list and the ‘parent selection process’.  What we later discovered after much contact with Linn, that we wouldn’t want it any other way.  Linn is the most conscientious, loving and caring breeder I have yet had the privilege of having dealings with.  There was never a moment of doubt or uncertainty that she was the breeder we wanted to receive our kitten from.

From the day we were approved Linn kept us updated as to our baby’s progress, with e-mails and photographs.  We couldn’t wait for our first visit with Linn and to see out little bundle of fur.  He was everything that we had hoped for and more.  We were very sad to leave but knew that we would be able to take him home with us in about 6 weeks time.  It was such a pleasure to meet with Linn face to face and see the wonderful facilities that she has.  No question that we had was too trivial and she answered them all with enthusiasm.  It was easy to see that she lived for her feline friends and her kittens are the result of the love and devotion she puts into ensuring that they are healthy and well adjusted.  From that moment on we were all ‘Ragdoll Slaves’.  We left Linn’s home and went straight to WODAC.  We couldn’t resist buying all kinds of toys and accessories ready for our baby to come home.  We also couldn’t help wandering over to the cat show arena.  Whilst I do admit to being a definite cat person, I have to admit to being Ragdoll biased.  We couldn’t see another cat that even came close to our little precious and of course Linn’s kitty family.

The day finally arrived and we went to collect Oliver.  There couldn’t have been a more exited family.  Linn was of course sad to see him go (who wouldn’t have been - he was exquisite!).  After much re-assurance we put him in his cat carrier, put his seat belt on and headed home.  IT WAS FANTASTIC.  Our baby was home at last.  We couldn’t cuddle, hug and love him enough.  From day one he has made it very clear when it is mealtime.  Now at the age of one year it hasn’t changed, except now he comes to fetch me and tells me in no uncertain terms “Mum, it’s meal time”.

He has crept into our lives and our hearts like I could never have imagined.  He brings so much love and pleasure.  He is without a doubt the most beautiful boy you have ever seen.  He comes running when we call him and talks to us as if we are the most wonderful family in the world.  He’s always there to greet us when we have been out and lets us know that he missed us and that he’s glad we are home.  We couldn’t imagine a life without him.  The wonderful start to life that Linn gave him was what every kitten deserves.  He adjusted to life with us like a duck to water and loves us all unconditionally.  He did have his favourite person to start with, but now he is a lot more diplomatic and shares himself around.  He takes turns sleeping on different beds and cuddles anyone who is available (which generally is all of us because we always stop doing what ever we are busy with to tend to his every need!).

Our sincere thanks to Linn for EVERYTHING.  You are one of a kind and I feel privileged at being a Raglin Ragdoll owner.  We are still deciding on whether or not to adopt another baby, but find it difficult to not have Oliver (Ollie Bollie) as the king pin, we don’t want to put his nose out of joint just yet.

For those of you who are considering a Ragdoll – GET ONE!  As Linn so correctly puts it - RAGDOLLS RULE!!!!

Maxine S., Jhb (2005)

When looking for a kitten I was told about the Ragdoll breed. I then went on Linn Currie's website and fell in love. Linn as a breeder is excellent, analising each owner, making sure her kittens only go to the best homes. Her cats are part of her family therefore the kittens you receive are well balanced and loved. Over the months of getting to know your kitten and almost daily emails she becomes a friend as well as a breeder.

I have had other cats before but what amazes me about his breed is what how sweet natured and placid they are. Meadow is a gentle soul and will lie on his back allowing you to stroke and love him. He is a real character, comes when he is called and is amazing with the children. He is not skittish in any way and actually seeks out the children when wanting to play. My husband who has never been a great cat lover is totally besotted over Meadow. Meadow took to my old Dasc-hundt almost immediately. He cheekily rubs his tail in the dog’s face and will quite relaxingly lies next to him on the carpet. I think Pluto had no choice but to accept him as part of the family. 

After you have a Ragdoll I really don't think another breed could ever measure up. They are so beautiful to look at, soft and sociable. I recommend a Ragdoll to anyone looking for another family member! 

Leanne B., Jhb (2005)

I had been spending quite a long time reading up on cat breeds.  I wanted to get a special kitty and my reading invariably led me to do some surfing.  To my surprise I came across Linn’s web-site.   I was so excited; I did not know that Ragdolls were available in South Africa!  I browsed the Raglin site, looking at all the photos over and over again!  I think at that point I had read every single word on the site! What a fabulous site to browse! 

I plucked up the courage and sent an email query.  Soon I had a response and so I made the ac-quaintance of one very professional Ragdoll breeder.  Our email contact turned into telephone conversations and then to visits.  What I found so great (especially since I was a lot greener then than I am now) was that Linn would patiently answer all my questions – and does she know a lot of cat stuff!

What really made the experience of getting Guinevere from Linn so special was that Linn took a lot of trouble taking photo’s of the kittens and let me have regular photo’s and updates on what was happening.  Of course my visits to the cattery confirmed the professionalism I had already experienced from Linn.  I was impressed with how clean and tidy Linn’s cattery was.  All those cats and the place still looked decent. Even though there were a lot of cats around there was still a sense of order.

Guinevere is now 10 months old and is growing more and more beautiful.  She has such a wonder-ful nature; she really is what I was looking for in a cat!   She is also very happily settled in our ho-me.  I think the preparation that Linn put into us (the new family) has had a lot to do with how well things went from day 1.

I have really enjoyed, and still am enjoying, the contact I have had with Linn.  She is such a con-scientious breeder and her interest is really in the welfare of her cats, kittens and their adoptive families!

Thanks Linn, again (in case you missed one of the many previous thank you’s) – thanks for caring so well for your cats so that I could have my dream kitty!

Jeanette B., Pta (2005)

Thanks to Linn and Robert we have a wonderful, loving, gorgeous Ragdoll called Hubert.  Hubert has fitted into our family with absolutely no complications and he had to contend with seven other cats.  Linn trained him very well from young and he already knew how to use a sandbox and use a scratch post when he arrived at his new home.

Linn was and is always on the other end of the phone for updates on Hubert.  From the time that Linn gave me the confirmation that I would be a proud owner of one of her children’s babies we had constant pictures of how he was progressing and I never felt that any question was too silly to ask regarding him and was provided with a huge amount of information.

On visiting Linn and Robert you truly get to see how well the cats are looked after.  The cats are certainly part of the family and one can only feel confident that you are going to get a healthy, well looked after kitten.  Linn can certainly be proud of the cattery that she and Robert manage.  On fetching Hubert everything was explained very clearly in terms of a contract and to our surprise Hubert left with an amazing assortment of toys that all our cats have fun playing with. 

It is a pleasure dealing with Linn and even after taking Hubert home and now nine months later Linn is always keen on sharing a new photo of him and keeps us up to date with the news from her side which has made obtaining an addition to the family a wonderful experience.

Cathy K., Jhb. (2005)

   


Gorgeous Cole at 1 year of age, with his doting owner Yvonne!

Cole is the cat I have dreamed of my whole life, but never knew existed till now!  From the very first day, he changed my life, and he became the sweetest, most loyal companion a girl could hope for.

Cole was the last available kitten in the Patches/Billy litter born 30 August 2004.   Linn was confident that he would become a lovable, sociable cat despite his initial tendency to shy away from people.   She explained that he would start feeling more comfortable around me as my Saturday visits continued, and that he would become even more lovable once I took him home.   Since then I visited every Saturday, and everything happened exactly as Linn explained it would.  Cole has become my baby -- he loves to hear his mommy's voice and comes running, tail in the air to talk and be loved.   He often sleeps with his head on the pillow next to mine, and spends the early hours of the morning grooming my hair and licking my ears and eyelids if I oversleep.   He helps me do almost everything around the house.

During the time I spent visiting Cole the Curries became my friends.   Linn sent me photos and updates of Cole regularly together with kitten care instructions and everything I need to keep my cat happy.   Linn is without a doubt, a very professional breeder who maintains the highest standards in everything she does.  The day I collected Cole, he got spoilt with loads of toys from his grandma!

Linn's devotion to her cats and their health and happiness is both beautiful and inspiring. I re-member leaving her home on the first day I met her with an overwhelming feeling of contentment that she loved each cat so whole-heartedly, and that wonderful parents would adopt every kitten from the Currie house!   I found myself enjoying the experiences and get-togethers with the Curries, the cats, and the other kitten parents thoroughly.

Linn's cattery is a palace for cats!   Her kittens are lovable, beautiful, and healthy, and all she demands is your absolute love and devotion to your Ragdoll friend!

Yvonne G., Pta. (2005)

After much deliberation and research we set our minds on a Ragdoll.  Looking back now I realize that Linn gave us a hard time during the screening process of being potential kitten owners - it is true that she does not accept just anyone to care for her babies.

Linn lives and breathes for her Ragdolls and it shows in her kittens’ personalities. The short while (on average 15 weeks) that Linn cares for the kittens are crucial in their development and she does her absolute best for them during this time.  They are fed the best food, kept in the safest environment and are given plenty of warm hugs and kisses which any new owner would have a tough time to keep up with.

After Linn accepts you as a parent (be patient – it’s the well being of the kitten that is being protected), she will keep you very involved with the development of your baby.  She sends pictures, entertains all calls and gives advice readily.  Her babies occupy rooms in the house and are not caged.   She encourages weekly visits and not only does one witness the growth and development of the kittens, but a solid friendship between kitten owner and breeder is formed.

Leo is a Seal Mitted Lynx and he is absolutely stunning.  He is such a thrill for us – he is healthy, strong, intelligent, funny and everything a Ragdoll should be and more (thanks to Linn).  Beware not everyone knows about Ragdolls (not even your vet).  It is safest to trust Linn on her advice.  She has extensive knowledge and always keeps abreast of latest developments and new issues that may affect our kitten.  

Lastly,  I am obsessive about Leo and would not want Linn to be any less fussy about how she runs her cattery.  I appreciate all that she has done for Leo and the continued communication we maintain with each other.

Arthee & Solly G., Johannesburg (2005)

  
Pictures above courtesy Sunette M.

The process of acquiring our Fly was a delight. Contrary to the many stories one hears of breeders, I can only say, that if you deal with the Curries - you will enjoy the experience.

Once we had decided to add a Ragdoll to our family, we got in contact with breeders all over the world and we were delighted that the best of them all was just up the road so to speak. It took almost two years from interest to acquisition, but we were determined to get the best from the best.

Linn invited us around to her home and we embarked on a steep learning curve. We were most fortunate to be allowed to participate in the process that started with Fly's mommy being pregnant at the time. From the moment of birth, Linn's emails and endless photographs started arriving. I swear this woman spends half her life behind a camera, just so that you can enjoy the development of your little one!

Linn’s insistence on regular visits to the kittens, added to the enjoyment, and we could watch our little Fly grow and develop. These visits were also educational, as Linn believes in making sure you learn as much as possible about the breed and care.

At last the day arrived to take our little one home. Fly came with some much luggage, one thought you should have taken a trailer! All the little nibbles, presents and toys and a very flustered Linn issuing last minute tips and instructions to make the transition as easy as possible.

Within 24 hours, Fly went missing! In desperation, we called Linn for advice. Advice?  Linn and Robert immediately drove the 50 Km to our house to help us search. After hours of searching, we discovered Fly, fast asleep in his special hidey-hole in a bedroom. This is the level of commitment to her vocation that you get when you deal with such a professional.

Not only do I heartily recommend the Curries as breeders, I also recommend their approach to the process of acquiring one of their precious kittens. It was a delight from the beginning. The ensuing days have been filled with joy, laughter and love … Thank you Linn and Robert for allowing this precious bundle to come into our lives.

Rory D., Johannesburg (2004)

After having acquired a Ragdoll from Linn about a year ago, we decided to invest in another bundle of joy and placed an order for yet another kitten.  Once again, all the dealings we had with Linn were very professional.  She kept us informed almost on a daily basis as to how our new Rag-doll was doing and we grew to love him so much just from the stories she so warmly related to us via e-mail.

We drove all the way to Cape Town from Namibia, to go and fetch "Joey" who was flying in from Johannesburg.  When we arrived at the airport, the plane had been delayed an hour.  Linn kept in contact with me by phone and I could hear the deep concern in her voice about her kitten that was an hour late in arrival.   We were all so relieved when Joey finally landed.

What a beautiful little kitten he is!  Within a little while he was purring away and feeling quite at home.   Joey is a “true Ragdoll".  He is so floppy and loves to be cuddled.   He is such a "purr pot".  He also has quite a unique manner of talking to us.  Together with Joey arrived a big bag full of beautiful toys and a teaser wand, not only for him, but also for our other cats.

As stipulated by Linn’s contract, we took him to a vet in Cape Town to be examined.  The vet was very impressed with the kitten and the breeder.  He remarked how wonderful it is to see a breeder take so much care over her kittens.   

Linn is the most caring, knowledgeable cat breeder I have come across.   She has everything planned in the finest detail.   When you receive a kitten from her, you know that you will get a heal-thy, loved and cared for kitten.  Linn has also become a very dear friend to my husband and I.  I can sincerely recommend anyone who wants the BEST to go through Linn.  You won't be sorry.

Glynn & Dieter M., Namibia (2004)

My dealings with Linn have gone back to November 2002.  I had been silently thinking about adding another kitten to our home, but did not dare broach the subject to my husband, as we al-ready had two cats and two dogs.  I found Linn's name in the Cat-A-Log and immediately started searching the net.   I went into many websites of different breeds, but kept coming back to the Ragdolls.

Caitie, my gorgeous Ragdoll, is the joy of my life! When I first met Linn and Robert I immediately felt a ”closeness” with them.  They both exuded gentleness and such tremendous devotion for their “babies”.  The cattery was immaculate and I was so impressed with the details – just for the Ragdolls!  Baby blankets in the maternity section, scratching posts all over and bowls of kibbles for snacks!

When I was first introduced to Caitie she sat placidly in my arms looking straight at me with her beautiful blue eyes. Naturally she crept immediately into my heart and is now such a part of my life – playful, adoringly loving and keeping me young at heart!  My “waiting time” was filled with photos and e-mails from Linn and when they brought Caitie to me, I was given a beautiful red rose together with her pedigree etc.  

What a privilege their Ragdolls have living with such caring and devoted “grandparents” as Linn & Robert Currie!

Doodie E van N, Pretoria (2004)