Ocicat Cat
Spotted Cats

History

The Ocicat Cat owes its existence to an experimental breeding program! In 1964 Virginia Daly, a cat breeder from Michigan USA, used a hybrid female (an Abyssinian/Seal Point Siamese cross) and a Chocolate Point Siamese cat to produce a Tabby Point Siamese. The offspring of this union produced a litter of kittens, one in particular, had a beautiful ivory coat with gold spots. Despite his beauty, Dalai Tonga did not meet the criteria of the breeding program and was neutered and sold as a pet.

It did not end here! Mrs Daly's interest in spotted cats grew when she received further inspiration from the geneticist Dr Keeler who encouraged her to renew her breeding program to emulate spotted wild cats.

Using the original cats, a hybrid female ( Abyssinian/Seal Point Siamese cross) and a Chocolate Point Siamese she created foundation cats for this experimental breeding program. To ensure size, eliminate the typical oriental elongated look and to provide the range of silver color, she used American Shorthairs as outcrosses. This cat breed has absolutely no 'wild blood', but the intention is that is should emulate a wild spotted cat.

Other cat breeds were also used by breeders. Abyssinian cats, Siamese, spotted Oriental Shorthairs, Egyptian Mau and American Shorthairs were all used to achieve the current body type.

The Ocicat holds the distinction of being the first 'man-made' spotted cat to receive recognition. The California Spangled followed shortly after, but it would appear that breeding of this cat has been abandoned.

What about the name you may ask? Mrs Daly's daughter derived its name from the Ocelot (wild spotted cat) and 'cat'.

The Ocicat cat finally received recognition from the CFA in 1986, TICA 1988 and the first cats were exported to France around 1989.

This cat breed is popular in the United States, but it remains relatively uncommon elsewhere. The good news is that their popularity is growing internationally.

For the latest updates regarding their Championship Status consult the all breeds of cat governing body in your country.

For additional cat information about these wild-looking domestic cats do visit:

Ocicat - fast facts

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Cat Pictures Courtesy of:

© Lena of Hot Country's Ocicats Sweden www.eriksdal.net/hotcountrys

Top Photo: SHot Country´s Kenny Starfighter, Tawny Spotted; Owner: Lena

Bottom Photo : SHot Country´s Heart and Soul