Ocicat Cat Breed

OCICAT, A FRIENDLY WILD CAT

Ocicat

This is a short-haired breed of cats, which was first registered in 1964 in the United States. 

This breed originated from the Abyssinian, Siamese and American Shorthair cats. And got its name from the ocelot - a spotty wild cat. In 1986, this breed was officially recognized by an international association. Ocicat are very similar to Egyptian Mau (mainly their fur color), except Ocicat cats are more elegant and inferior in size.

Appearance:

Ocicats have a wedge-shaped head, with a slight bend from the muzzle to the cheeks. The muzzle itself is wide, with a strong chin and jaws. Alert (watchful) ears of medium size. 

Some representatives of this breed have small vertical bristles on the tip of their ears. Eyes are large, almond shaped and can be of any color except blue.

Ocicats are not very large (just as Siamese cats are), but male Ocicats are much larger than female. They have a very well developed skeleton and musculature, and in general look athletically built. Paws are oval in shape and are rather compact.The tail is fairly long, slightly pointed at the tip and usually dark in color.

Ocicats have short yet soft fur that tightly adheres to the body.

Character:

Ocicat is a very sociable breed of cats. They are very kind and playful. Loves active games and can, like a dog, bring a ball thrown by you, just don't forget to pet and praise them after.

In general Ocicats prefer to be the center of attention. If you have guests, your four-legged friend will not miss the chance to "show himself" and won't hide somewhere avoiding noise. In addition, Ocicat have inherited a beautiful trait from Siamese cat - talkativness. You will never be bored in the presence of Ocicat.

Ocicat, unlike most cat breeds, don't mind relocations and will easily settle in a new place.

They are very obidient and loyal, can follow your commands and can be taught various tricks. They are attached to one owner, but that doesn't mean that they will ignore the rest of the family, but they will play with them reluctantly, without enthusiasm.

Ocicets are self-confident, restless extroverts, that are very dependent on people. If you do not have the ability to spend majority (or better yet all) of your time at home, then perhaps this breed is not for you. Although, you can compensate for your absence, if you get another pet as a companion for your Ocicat. And like all representatives of the descendants of "wild cats," Ocicats require space, small rooms are not for them.

Health:

Ocicat is considered a healthy breed, with around 18 (or more) years of life expectancy. But since this breed was a result of the crossing of three breeds (each with their own hereditary illnesses), Ocicat inherited some of their health issues.