Ocicat

The Ocicat is a domestic cat breed that resembles a wild cat but does not have any wild DNA in its gene pool. It is known for its distinctive spotted coat, which gives it the appearance of a small wild cat, such as an ocelot, from which its name is derived.

History

The Ocicat breed was developed in the United States in the 1960s. The breed originated from the accidental crossing of a Siamese cat and an Abyssinian cat. The first Ocicat, named Tonga, was born in 1964. Breeder Virginia Daly was attempting to create an Abyssinian-pointed Siamese when she produced a kitten with a unique spotted coat. This kitten was neutered and sold as a pet, but the interest in its appearance led to further breeding efforts.

The breed was further developed by crossing American Shorthairs into the line, which contributed to the Ocicat's size and silver color. The breed was recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in 1987 and by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 1986.

Physical Characteristics

Ocicats are medium to large cats with a well-muscled, athletic build. They have a short, smooth coat that is covered in spots. The spots are usually darker than the background color and are distributed across the body in a pattern similar to that of a wild cat.

Coat and Colors

The Ocicat's coat is short, smooth, and satiny in texture. It comes in a variety of colors, including tawny, chocolate, cinnamon, blue, lavender, and fawn. Each color can also appear in a silver variant, where the base coat is a pale silver color.

Head and Body

The head of an Ocicat is a modified wedge with a slight curve from the muzzle to the cheek. The ears are moderately large and set at a 45-degree angle. The eyes are large, almond-shaped, and can be any color except blue.

The body is solid and muscular, with a broad chest and substantial bone structure. The legs are of medium length, with the hind legs slightly longer than the front legs, and the paws are oval.

Temperament

Ocicats are known for their outgoing and friendly nature. They are highly social cats that enjoy the company of humans and other pets. They are intelligent and can be trained to perform tricks or walk on a leash. Ocicats are also known for their playful and active demeanor, making them excellent companions for families.

Health

Ocicats are generally healthy cats, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet can help maintain their well-being. Some Ocicats may be prone to gingivitis, so dental care is important.

Breeding and Genetics

The Ocicat's unique appearance is the result of careful breeding. The breed's genetic makeup includes Abyssinian, Siamese, and American Shorthair cats. Breeders focus on maintaining the breed's distinctive spotted coat and robust health.

Also see

• Abyssinian cat
• Siamese cat
• American Shorthair
• Cat Fanciers' Association
• The International Cat Association