Ragdoll history

The history of the Ragdoll cat breed is relatively recent, dating back to the 1960s in Riverside, California. The breed was developed by a breeder named Ann Baker, who began with a domestic longhaired white cat named Josephine. Josephine was believed to have had Siamese or Persian lineage, and after an accident, she produced kittens with notably calm and relaxed temperaments. These kittens were the foundation of the Ragdoll breed. Baker carefully selected for traits such as their distinctive blue eyes, colorpoint coats, and docile nature, which led to the development of the Ragdoll as we know it today.

Ann Baker’s unique approach to breeding and her emphasis on maintaining control over the breed’s development led to the establishment of the International Ragdoll Cat Association (IRCA). This organization was intended to protect the breed’s characteristics and maintain its exclusivity. However, as the Ragdoll’s popularity grew, other breeders sought to work with the breed, leading to its recognition by major cat registries like the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) and The International Cat Association (TICA). Today, Ragdolls are one of the most popular cat breeds in the world, admired for their gentle demeanor, striking appearance, and affectionate nature. Their history, though brief, is a testament to careful breeding and the creation of a cat that has captured the hearts of many.