OCICAT

Togo
1999

Ocicat

The Ocicat originated from the interbreeding of Abyssinian, Siamese and American Shorthair cats. It is the only spotted domestic breed selectively bred to emulate the cats of the wild. The ideal Ocicat is a large, active animal with an athletic appearance. It is very solid and well muscled, and has a short, tight coat with a satin sheen that shows off muscles and spots to their best advantage.

Feline enthusiasts have always been awed by the spotted cats of the wild: ocelots, margays, leopards and others. Never before was there such an effort to breed an entirely domestic cat which can offer the spotted beauty of the wild cats, while maintaining the lovely, predictable disposition of the domestic cat. With so many wild spotteds disappearing as their native habitats are destroyed and invaded, it is increasingly important that this man-made breed can satisfy people who want something "exotic." How sad that so many wild spotted cats have suffered abuse and destruction. Perhaps the Ocicat will do its part in preventing the poaching and importation of the endangered wild cats.

While the Ocicat looks wild it is not ferocious. It is dedicated to its owners, but not demanding. Most Ocicats are extroverted around strangers, and check out the possibilities for a few playmates or a lap to curl up on when visitors come to call.

Ocicats are quite bright and easily trained. Many will fetch, walk on a leash, respond to voice commands and readily adapt to household rules. Because of their adaptability, they are a joy to work with and easily get used to traveling. Their sociable nature makes them a good choice for a household already blessed with other cats or dogs.

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. They are not prone to any health problems and their broad genetic background gives them vigor and vitality.




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