What kind of cat is an Ocicat? - briefly
The Ocicat is not a wild cat but rather a domestic breed developed in the United States during the 1960s. This breed was created by crossing Siamese cats with Abyssinian and American Shorthair breeds to achieve an exotic wildcat appearance.
What kind of cat is an Ocicat? - in detail
The Ocicat is a unique and striking breed of domestic cat that was developed in the United States during the 1960s. This distinctive feline is known for its wild appearance, which is reminiscent of the ocelot, a small wild cat found in Central and South America. Despite its exotic looks, the Ocicat is entirely domesticated and makes an excellent companion pet.
The origin story of the Ocicat begins with Virginia Daly, a breeder from Michigan who was working with Siamese cats and Abyssinian cats. In 1964, she crossed a seal point Siamese cat with an ivory Abyssinian, aiming to create a new breed that combined the best traits of both parents. The resulting kittens had a distinctive coat pattern that resembled an ocelot's spots, leading Daly to name her new breed "Ocicat."
The development of the Ocicat continued over the years through careful selective breeding. In addition to the Siamese and Abyssinian cats, other breeds were introduced into the lineage, including the American Shorthair and the British Shorthair. This diverse genetic background has contributed to the Ocicat's robust health and vigor.
One of the most striking features of the Ocicat is its coat pattern, which closely mimics that of a wild cat. The breed standard recognizes 12 different colors, including tawny, chocolate, cinnamon, blue, lavender, and fawn. These colors are often combined with various spot patterns, such as classic tabby, spotted, or ticked. Regardless of the specific coloration, all Ocicats share a distinctive "M" marking on their foreheads and a characteristic "W" shape on their chests.
Beyond its impressive appearance, the Ocicat is also known for its friendly and outgoing personality. These cats are highly social and enjoy interacting with both humans and other pets. They are often described as dog-like in their affection and loyalty, following their owners around the house and eagerly greeting them at the door. The Ocicat's playful nature makes it an ideal companion for families with children or other animals.
In addition to its social skills, the Ocicat is also known for its intelligence and curiosity. These cats are highly active and enjoy exploring their surroundings. They are often seen perched on high places, such as shelves or window sills, where they can observe the world around them. The Ocicat's playful nature extends to its interaction with toys, and it is not uncommon for these cats to engage in fetch-like games with their owners.
The Ocicat's unique combination of wild appearance and domesticated temperament has made it a popular choice among cat enthusiasts. The breed was recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in 1987 and has since gained recognition from other major cat registries around the world. Today, the Ocicat is appreciated not only for its striking looks but also for its loyal and affectionate nature, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a distinctive and engaging companion.