She was a fun Birthday gift along with a wonderful surprise Pandora bracelet from my sister and her family. So, that’s how the fluffy stuffed kitty earned her name: Pandora. Perhaps it seems strange that as a grown woman, I would receive a white Webkinz Persian Cat but after witnessing my twin niece and nephew’s delight in these toys, I was intrigued.

I wasn’t exactly sure of what to expect. I’ve happily endured the twins’ “Show & Tell” episodes as they revealed their recently acquired pets. However, I witnessed only a quick glimpse of their online activities so didn’t grasp the concept. Now thanks to my sister’s generosity, I had an open invitation to join the Webkinz craze.

First step is selecting the stuffed animal. Somewhat similar but bigger to Beanie Babies, they come in loads of different styles. There’re dogs, cats, lions, cows, bears, and so much more. Since my Webkinz Persian Cat was a gift, I don’t know how much it cost. However, browsing Epinions and other websites, I think they’re around $14.

The Persian Cat is white with blue eyes, pink nose and ears, and has a dainty pink bow on the top left side of her head. Fluffy, err hairy might describe her fur. I’m guessing my sister chose this one because I loved Persian cats when I was a kid. However, as mommy to a part Maine Coon kitty, I’m no longer desirous of a long haired feline. Thus, this Webkinz is a good solution. Though, she too seems to shed a little.

Pandora isn’t what I consider soft and cuddly. She’s about 8.5 inches long and stuffed but not ultra plush and huggable. Then again, I’m not a little kid so perhaps she satisfies their tiny arms better. I’ve seen my niece and nephew carry their Webkinz around so at least they play with the critters. As for me, she’ll probably rest in a basket with a couple of other furry inanimate friends.

Second part of the Webkinz process involves the internet. Attached to each toy is a clear, plastic envelope containing a little card. This tiny tag contains a secret code that permits you to “bring your pet to life and enter the Webkinz World”. Minimum browser requirements are also listed. Caution: DON’T THROW OUT THE TAG even after registering your pet because you may need the code.

Feeling slightly foolish, I went to Webkinz.com. Registration was easy and soon I filled in an adoption certificate selecting its name and gender. The online version of this cat is adorable (even sweeter than the real stuffed animal).Upon registering, I received 2,000 Kinzcash. I bought a pretty cat window, a cat shaped TV, and a play center for my cyber version. Wondering how you get more money, I stumbled around on a few of the games and questions. Soon I had a few more bucks and was sure to purchase Pandora some food. Learning to take care of a pet is an important step of childhood. Through the monitors on Webkinz you can watch your pet’s HEART, HAPPINESS, and HEALTH meters to be sure you’re doing a good job.

I was impressed with my first visit and think there’s a lot of quality activities there for kids (and adults) to do. I’m looking forward to interacting with my niece and nephew on the site. As I understand it, all is highly safeguarded. Only those you invite and/or accept can join your friend’s list. I also liked the assorted educational activities and games.

So that’s all. Joining the Webkinz craze is as simple as 1-2-3:

1. Buy a Webkinz creature at most any discount chain, card shop, or toy store.

2. Enter the pet’s code on the Webkinz site.

3. Play!


If you’re a cat lover, than you might enjoy this Persian Cat. Truthfully, I spotted a few cuter Webkinz kitties, but I love mine since it came from some of those precious people I treasure most dearly.

However, hubby thinks the name PANDORA is highly appropriate – because now a box of troublesome possibilities involving a Webkinz addiction has been open…


Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): gift
Type of Toy: Stuffed Toy
Age Range of Child: Other