Snowshoe

Basic Info

The Snowshoe is a breed of cat. The first Snowshoes appeared in the 1960s in America, as a result of cross-breeding between a Siamese and a bi-colored American Shorthair. The ears are large and triangular. The head will also be triangular and usually has black markings. In purebreds, the eyes are always blue. Coat is short-haired, and is white and gray. The tail is medium-sized. Snowshoe cats come in blue, fawn, chocolate, and seal points. Weighing 8-10 pounds, this is a powerful, medium-sized cat. It's well balanced- not too small, not too big. Shorthaired, with a medium tail and having a pointed coat pattern like its relative, the Siamese, its white feet distinguish the breed. Its two predominate colors are Seal Point and White, and Blue Point and White. Patterns may vary with white spotting. Regardless of specific markings, this is a most striking looking animal. The broad, triangular head has an inverted, white "V" extending from the forehead to the muzzle. Snowshoe's ears are medium to large and rounded, while the eyes are bright blue and alert ovals. The legs are medium length with round paws. This cat is a perfect combination of the sleek Siamese and the sturdy American Shorthair

Health

N/A

Habitat

N/A

Behavior

The Snowshoe, so named because of its white feet, is an inquisitive and intelligent cat that will quickly adapt to children and other pets, including dogs. Easygoing, these cats can "talk" up a storm, but with quieter voices than their close relative, the Siamese. Although laid back with an Oriental mystique, Snowshoes are friendly, affectionate, and playful, loving games, including fetch. They'll let you know how important you are to them with a gentle purr and adoring look through mesmerizing blue eyes. This is a lively breed that enjoys indoor living. A Snowshoe is the ultimate feline companion for any household .They are generally sweet tempered, energetic, intelligent, and adaptable. They are a very social breed that requires more attention than most cats do, and consequently cannot be left alone for long periods of time. In a typical household they will be friendly to everyone, but will usually devote themselves almost entirely to one person

Origin

United States

History

A Philadelphia breeder developed the Snowshoe in the 60s after discovering three Siamese littermates with white feet. Liking the new look so much, she crossed her Siamese with a bicolor American Shorthair to produce the desired offspring. Another breeder liked what she saw and wrote the first breed standard. Acceptance by The American Cat Association for registration occurred in 1974. Cat Fanciers Federation advanced the Snowshoe to Championship status in 1982.

Common Foods

cat food, milk