Ragdoll origins

The origins of the Ragdoll cat breed are both fascinating and somewhat mysterious, tracing back to the early 1960s in Riverside, California. The breed was developed by a breeder named Ann Baker, who started with a domestic longhaired white cat named Josephine. Josephine, believed to have had Siamese and Persian ancestry, gave birth to a litter of kittens with exceptionally relaxed temperaments and striking appearance. These kittens displayed unique traits, such as a tendency to go limp when held, which inspired the name “Ragdoll.” Intrigued by these characteristics, Ann Baker began selectively breeding Josephine’s offspring, focusing on their docile nature, large size, and captivating blue eyes.

Ann Baker’s approach to breeding was unconventional, as she maintained strict control over the development of the Ragdoll breed. She went as far as to trademark the name “Ragdoll” and created the International Ragdoll Cat Association (IRCA) to protect the breed’s integrity. Despite her efforts to keep the breed exclusive, other breeders eventually began working with Ragdolls, leading to their recognition by major cat associations such as The International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). Today, Ragdolls are cherished worldwide for their gentle, affectionate nature and striking appearance. The breed’s origins, though rooted in the vision of a single breeder, have led to the creation of one of the most beloved cat breeds in the world, known for their calm demeanor and strong bonds with their human companions.