Paradise Valley Ragdolls

Breed Information

    The Ragdoll was first recognized as a pure breed in 1965. The ragdoll emigrated from California.  The name was given by the original breeder Ann Baker and was so named for its tendency to go limp like a child’s  toy when held in human arms.  Ann Baker bred a white Angora-Persian type cat named Josephine to a Birman type sire, and a Burmese type sire and undetermined sires. Her kittens were very muscular and graceful and had a wonderful loving temperament, those kittens  with the finest qualities were carefully line bred to produce the Ragdoll breed.  Laura and Denny Dayton worked hard to legitimize the breed for what it truly is and gained official recognition of Ragdoll cats in 1967.  The Daytons originated RFCI (Ragdoll Fanciers Club International) which has become one of the most respected and reputable Ragdoll Cat Registry in the world.

    Ragdolls, especially the males, usually grow to be very large cats.  Ragdolls are a slow maturing breed.  Full maturity of size and color are not to be expected for at least three years. Ragdoll cats aren’t like most other cats in that they really are not aloof. They like to be with people.  They may not always be on your lap but they’ll always be within sight! Ragdoll kittens are inquisitive and alert little bundles of  fluff, and as they mature they become very loving, trusting cats with a very laid back  temperament which is the hallmark of the breed. They love human company and are great  with children.

    Unfortunately myths still persist and cat owners have been mislead into believing that Ragdolls do not feel pain, do not cause allergies to those allergic to cats, cannot  defend themselves and do not possess normal cat instincts such as hunting. All of the above are untrue.  Ragdolls should be treated with the same care and respect bestowed upon all other breeds.

    Make no mistake, Ragdolls are fun loving felines known in the cat world for their  large size. They have a regal look, irresistible charisma and are graciously spirited. Ragdolls are a very intelligent breed of cat.  They will respond to simple commands  and can be taught tricks by working with them on a routine basis.