RAGDOLL CAT HISTORY

Ragdolls have soared in popularity to become one of the most sought-after breeds globally, largely attributed to their loving personalities and gentle, loyal nature. These remarkable cats have captured the hearts of countless individuals, earning a reputation for their affectionate demeanor and remarkable companionship qualities.

Their endearing temperament makes them beloved family pets, renowned for their ability to form deep bonds with their human companions. Ragdolls are known to be exceptionally gentle and patient, making them ideal companions for households with children and other pets. Their calm and docile demeanor allows them to adapt seamlessly to various living environments, whether it's a bustling family home or a tranquil solo dwelling.

Beyond their loving disposition, Ragdolls possess striking physical features that add to their allure. With their captivating blue eyes, luxurious semi-long fur, and distinct pointed patterns, Ragdolls exhibit an exquisite charm that sets them apart. Their large size and impressive stature further contribute to their majestic presence, earning them admiration from cat enthusiasts worldwide.

In addition to their charming personality and stunning appearance, Ragdolls are also celebrated for their intelligence and playful nature. These cats enjoy interactive play sessions and are known to engage in a variety of activities, from chasing toys to solving puzzles. Their curious and inquisitive demeanor adds an element of excitement to daily interactions, making them delightful companions for both children and adults alike.

Overall, Ragdolls embody the perfect combination of beauty, grace, and affection, making them cherished members of countless households around the world. Whether they're lounging in a sunbeam or curling up in their owner's lap, Ragdolls exude an undeniable charm and warmth that leaves a lasting impression on all who have the pleasure of sharing their lives with these extraordinary felines.

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The early work with the breed began in 1963 with Ann Baker who lived in California and bred ‘Burmese’ experimental Persians. She worked in a Laundromat and the owner, Mrs Pennels, had about forty to fifty semi-feral cats living on her farm property. One of the cats was a white ‘Angora type’ cat named Josephine. Josephine was hit by a car when she was pregnant and was nursed back to health, after which Ann noticed a difference in the kittens born to Josephine. Ann noted that the resulting kittens were of wonderful nature, craving human attention and were large in size. They didn’t have matting fur, and had a non-fighting disposition, and become limp like a child’s ragdoll when handled. Josephine had several litters of kittens before she was sadly put down by Mr. Pennels for being protective of her current litter and attacking their dog.

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Ann acquired three of Josephine’s offspring and began line breeding to produce the new breed which she named ‘Ragdoll’. The original three cats that become the foundation in creating the Ragdoll breed were:Daddy Warbucks – a seal mitted cat with a nose blaze and white-tipped tail. Fugianna – a seal bicolor, Buckwheat – a thick furred black self (solid). These cats and their offspring have been compared to other breeds such as Birmans and Burmese but Josephine and the fathers were semi-feral cats and therefore their parentage was unknown. Ann started a breeding program that yielded three new patterns out of her original cats and their offspring., Colourpoint, Mitted and Bicolour.   The first record of Ragdolls being sold was in early 1969 when Denny and Laura Dayton bought one breeding pair of Ragdolls from Ann Baker. Rosie and Buddy were the names given to these two cats, who became the foundation for what is now known as the Blossom-Time Cattery.

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It is from these small beginnings by the Daytons that most of our current Ragdolls trace their ancestry. During the years 1969-1973, the Daytons tried very hard to work with Ann to help promote the Ragdoll breed, but Ann wanted to retain total control.

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In 1971 Ann set up her own registering body called International Ragdoll Cat Association (IRCA). She patented the Ragdoll name in 1975 and franchised out ‘breeding stock’ under strict contracts. Her aim was to develop a breed who resembled Daddy Warbucks and felt over time the Colourpoint and Bicolour patterns would disappear.

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Ann became very eccentric and paranoid over the years and several of the original purchasers of her Ragdolls, such as the Daytons, ended their business with her. Many other early owners and breeders rebelled against being franchised, wanting no part of such an arrangement. The Dayton family continued breeding Ragdolls from the original lines until the 1980’s.

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During their 13 years of breeding Ragdolls, the Daytons can be seen as having a pivotable role in Ragdoll history, which has helped to preserve the Ragdoll breed standards that we know and love.  The Daytons created the Ragdoll Genetic Chart and formed the Ragdoll Society, with Denny serving as its first President. They also started up the first Ragdoll Cat newsletter and played a huge part in getting Ragdolls registered in all the various international cat associations over time.

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Interested in learning more about Ragdoll kittens? Here you can find more information about the Ragdoll Cats Personality , Ragdoll cat Colors & Patterns , and the Ragdoll cat's Breed Standard .