Is The Ocicat Cat Good For You?
- 1Ocicat cats can be taught to come when called and they love their human companions.
- 2Ocicats are intelligent and can learn many different tricks, such as begging for food.
- 3Ocicats are very active and enjoy regular exercise.
HISTORY
The Ocicat was first created by accident in 1964. Virginia Daly was crossing a Siamese and an Abyssinian in an attempt to create a breed of Siamese with the same colorpoints as the Abyssinian, but ended up getting this spotted, leopard looking cat. Earning their name because of their striking resemblance to the Ocelot, the Ocicat was first recognized for Championship status in 1987.
Quick Facts
Size
Medium, Large
Lifespan
11 - 13 years
Hair Length
Short
Litter Size
4 - 5 kittens
Male Weight
10 - 15 pounds
Female Weight
7 - 12 pounds
Personality
Contrary to their appearance, the Ocicat is a gentle, loving breed. They are loyal pets, doting on their owner, though not demanding constant attention. Around strangers they retain their same bubbly personality, even engaging them in play. They are easily adaptable, great at socializing, and do not require much grooming at all, making for an all around easy cat to care for. They are quite smart, very curious, and are nimble, making them great at exploring, and mischievous. .
Color
The Ocicat, while always spotted, can come in a few different colors, but the eumelanistic color is the only one allowed in show circuits.
Health Concerns
Ocicats are a healthy breed with vigor and vitality and can live 15 to 18 years. But since they are a cross between pedigreed breeds, they are easily prone to certain hereditary diseases and genetic weaknesses. Certain Ocicats are found to inherit:
- Renal amyloidosis (renal failure)
- Liver disorders
- Dental diseases
- Heart disorders
Appearance
The Ocicat is a lean, muscular, large cat with a powerful body made of solid muscle. Weighing anywhere between 6 and 14 pounds, this little big cat is positively designed to be the ultimate cat-thlete. Their large almond eyes give them an exotic look, and their spotted fur makes them entirely unique. Their short fur is quite low maintenance, taking a mere weekly brushing to keep them shiny and free of matting.