The Ocicat is a new and still-rare breed of cat which has spots resembling a ‘wild’ cat and the temperament of a domestic animal, named for its resemblance to the ocelot.
History: The history of the Ocicat developed by accident when a breeder was trying to create a Ticked Point Siamese. The breeder from Michigan bred a Siamese with an Abyssinian then mated the offspring to a Siamese male. In this litter was the very first Ocicat a kitten with ivory coat and golden spots. The wild ocelot inspired the name Ocicat. The Ocicat was recognized in the United States in the1960s after many breeders followed the same breeding methods to create the Ocicats.
Appearance: The Ocicat is a medium to large cat. The head is wedged shaped, longer than wider, with a shallow curve from muzzle to cheek. The muzzle is broad and well defined and there is a hint of squareness to the jaw. The chin is deep and well defined and the bite is broad and level. The coat is short, smooth and satiny in texture with a lustrous sheen. Tight, close-lying and sleek, yet long enough to accommodate the necessary bands of color. Ocicats come in many colors and at least all those colors associated with the three foundation breeds: tawny, chocolate, cinnamon, blue, lavender, fawn, silver, chocolate silver, cinnamon silver, blue silver, lavender silver, and fawn silver.
Size: weight – 2.5-6.5 kg
Temperament: This breed is considered to have intelligence, playfulness and inquisitive nature. Ocicats are very active cats that look wild but are very affectionate. These cats can be independent but not enough to be left alone for a long time. They are very loyal and devoted to its owners. Although Ocicats have been bred to look like wild cats their temperament does not reflect this. Ocicats thrive on human companionship and love to take part in everyday life.
Health: They are not prone to any particular health problem and their broad genetic background gives them vigor and vitality. Nevertheless, need regular vaccination and worming programmes like any other breed of cat. Once the Ocicat reaches about eight years of age it is advisable for the vet to give a health check at the same time as the annual vaccination
Life expectancy: more than 15 years. The Ocicat is long lived and ages of eighteen and nineteen are not uncommon.
Grooming: Though Ocicats fill the need for the exotic, they are easy to keep and require no special care. Their diets are the same as any domestic and their short coats need only the occasional bathing and grooming, but hourly hugs and kisses are essential!
Kitten price: $500.00 - $800.00