Ocicat
Cat Facts
The Ocicat domestic cat breed was developed or should we say 'created' by cat breeders to emulate spotted wild cats. Various cat breeds were used during the breeding program but it must be stressed that no wild cats were used to develop this beautiful spotted cat.
Features and Characteristics
The Ocicat is an athletic, well muscled, well boned solidly built cat. It is described as a moderately large, lithe and graceful cat. This is a powerful cat, not cobby by any manner, it's not a lightweight, in fact it is quite heavy for its size. To compliment the body, the legs are powerful, well muscled and medium long. The Ocicat's tail has a dark tip, is fairly long and relatively slim. The head is described as been slightly triangular with rounded contours. The cat has a robust chin with a broad muzzle and a firm jaw. Older males may have jowls. Eyes are large and almond shaped and tend to slant upwards towards the ears. The eyes should have a depth of color and all colors, except for blue, are acceptable. The Ocicat's alert ears are moderately large and lynx-tipped ears are always desirable.
The coat is satiny, short and smooth in texture and exhibits a glistening sheen. Although the hair is short, the length does accommodate several bands of color, thereby giving the coat a ticked appearance. This short, close-lying fur gives the cat a very sleek look and shows off their rippling muscles beautifully. The coat is described as agouti spotted. Agouti means that every hair is characterized by alternate bands of dark and light color. In this cat, the majority of the hair, apart from the tail tip is ticked. Spotting on the coat must be well and clearly defined and show good contrast to the ground color (i.e. the background color). The Ocicat comes in a wide range of colors e.g. chocolate, fawn, tawny, lavender and many more. Some other defining features would be the 'M' tabby marking on the forehead and mascara markings that encircles the eyes.
Cat Information
Would they suit a home with Children and other Pets? They make ideal pets for young and old. Most de-sexed cats get on well with other cats. Cats and dogs get on well provided it is a cat-friendly dog. Personality and Temperament This active, athletic cat is described by many breeders as outgoing, friendly and sociable. Whilst it has a wild-look, they are most certainly not aggressive. They have predictable temperaments and are devoted to their owners. It is lively, playful and curious, yet gently and affectionate. They are not demanding and have soft voices. This is an intelligent cat that can be trained to walk on a leash or even to'fetch'.
Indoor or Outdoor Cats They do not enjoy solitude and would do best in a household where there are either other pets or human companionship. Indoor / outdoor cat, but we need to stress that outdoor means an enclosed, escape-proof enclosure. Cat Grooming and Cat Care It requires very little grooming and is a low-maintenance cat. To keep the coat in good condition, it is advisable that they be brushed at least once a week. For complete cat care, (claw, eye, dental and hair care) - visit our pages that provide great cat grooming tips. Cat Health Concerns Ocicats are healthy and robust cats, with no known hereditary or genetic conditions. Please do vaccinate your cat against the common infectious feline diseases. Cat Diet and Nutrition Access to a clean and fresh water supply and a well balanced diet is all your kitty needs. Cat nutrition is essential to health, so do visit our cat food information guide to assist you in choosing the best diet for your cat. The Average Weight 2.5 to 6.5 kg (5.5 - 14.3 lbs) is the average weight of this cat breed Life Expectancy The life span is between 9 - 15 years which is considered a medium to long life expectancy.
Related Cat Pages: Ocicat Cat - the history and creation of a spotted cat Breeders - cat breeder directory
Cat Photos Courtesy of: © Lena of Hot Country's Ocicats Sweden www.eriksdal.net/hotcountrys Bottom Photo: SHot Country´s Kenny Starfighter, Tawny Spotted cat; Owner: Lena
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