Standards and Governance
The Ragdoll Breed Association is committed to operating to the highest standards of governance, transparency, and ethical practice.
Strong governance is essential for any breed club that aims to protect the health, welfare, and future of the breed. It provides clarity, consistency, and fairness for members, and ensures that the public can have confidence in the breeders and practices associated with the Club.
Our policies, procedures, and governing documents have been carefully developed to align with the principles and expectations of the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF). They set out clear standards for conduct, breeding practices, welfare, and administration, and provide structured processes for decision-making, complaints, and accountability.
These documents are not simply rules — they form the framework that supports:
Responsible and ethical breeding
High standards of animal welfare
Professional conduct and communication
Fair and transparent governance
Confidence and trust for both members and the public
All members of the Ragdoll Breed Association are expected to understand and adhere to these standards. Together, they ensure that our Club operates with integrity, consistency, and a clear commitment to the long-term wellbeing of the Ragdoll breed.
How Our Governance Works
The Ragdoll Breed Association is run in a structured, transparent, and accountable way to ensure that the Club operates to the highest possible standards in line with good governance and GCCF principles.
Our governance framework ensures that decisions are made fairly, responsibly, and always in the best interests of the Ragdoll breed, our members, and the welfare of our cats.
Code of Ethics
The Code of Ethics sets out the standards of behaviour expected of all members, with the welfare of cats as the highest priority. It covers responsible ownership, ethical breeding, honesty in representation, and support for new owners. It ensures members act with integrity, professionalism, and respect, maintaining trust in the Ragdoll breed and the Club.
GCCF Alignment
Alignment with the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) is essential to ensure that the Club operates to recognised national standards for pedigree cat breeding and showing. It demonstrates our commitment to welfare, ethical practice, and responsible governance. GCCF alignment provides credibility, consistency, and reassurance to breeders, members, and the public that our practices meet established and respected standards.
Constitution
The Constitution of the Ragdoll Breed Association sets out the formal structure, governance, and operating framework of the Club. It defines the Club’s objectives, membership rules, committee roles, and decision-making processes. It ensures transparency, fairness, and accountability, providing a clear foundation for ethical practice, responsible breeding, and alignment with GCCF principles and recognised standards of governance.
Breeder Guidelines
The Breeder Guidelines provide detailed best-practice standards for responsible Ragdoll breeding. They cover health testing, breeding age and frequency, kitten care and socialisation, documentation, and owner support. These guidelines help breeders maintain high welfare standards, preserve breed quality, and ensure kittens are raised in safe, informed, and well-managed environments.
Complaints and Appeals
The Ragdoll Breed Association operates a clear and fair complaints and appeals procedure to ensure concerns are handled professionally, confidentially, and in line with Club rules and GCCF guidance.
Complaints are assessed impartially, with proportionate outcomes where appropriate. Members have the right to appeal certain decisions through a structured process, ensuring transparency, accountability, and procedural fairness for all parties involved.
Equality & Respect
The Ragdoll Breed Association is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members and the wider community. We value diversity and expect all members to treat one another with courtesy, fairness, and professionalism.
Discrimination, harassment, or bullying of any kind will not be tolerated. By working together with mutual respect, we support a positive and supportive community for the benefit of the breed and its people.