In 1964, Mrs. Virginia Daly found a stunning golden spotted kitten in the USA. This kitten was a mix of Abyssinian and Siamese breeds¹. This chance find started the journey of the Ocicat, a breed that mixes the wild look with a domestic cat’s loving nature.

The Ocicat stands out with its unique spots, strong yet elegant body, and athletic build¹. It became a beloved pet in America in 1986, more than 20 years after its first sighting¹. Now, Ocicats are among the most wanted cat breeds in the USA¹.

This breed’s mix of Abyssinian, Siamese, and American Shorthair genes gives it a lively and healthy nature¹. Even though crossing with Abyssinians is allowed, it helps keep the Ocicat gene pool strong in the USA and UK¹.

Key Takeaways

• The Ocicat is a unique domestic cat breed that combines the exotic appearance of a wild cat with the loving temperament of a household pet.
• The breed was first discovered by accident in the USA in 1964 and has since become one of the most popular cat breeds in the country.
• Ocicats have a broad genetic background, making them a healthy and robust breed that requires minimal special care.
• The breed is known for its striking spotted coat, athletic build, and powerful yet graceful physique.
• Ocicats are highly intelligent and trainable, making them excellent companions for families.

Introduction to the Ocicat

The Exotic Spotted Feline

The Ocicat is a stunning domestic cat with an exotic look. It has a sleek, spotted coat and athletic physique. This makes it look like the wild Ocelot and Leopard². But, it’s a fully domestic breed with no wild genes³. It moves gracefully and looks striking, blending wild beauty with a loving pet’s nature².

In the United States, the Ocicat was accidentally created in 1964 by mixing a Siamese and an Abyssinian³. A kitten named Tonga was the start of this breed. The International Cat Association (TICA) recognized it as a breed in 1986². Now, the Ocicat is loved for its wild cat resemblance and versatile, dog-like personality³.

“The Ocicat is a domestic cat that closely resembles wild felines, with a sleek, spotted coat and athletic physique. Despite its exotic appearance, the Ocicat is a completely domestic breed that makes an affectionate and playful companion.”

History and Origins

In 1964, Virginia Daly in the United States accidentally created the Ocicat breed. She was trying to breed an “Aby pointed” Siamese but got a golden-spotted kitten instead⁴. Her daughter thought the kitten looked like a baby Ocelot, so they named it “Ocicat”⁵. This kitten, named Tonga, was the start of the Ocicat breed, but he wasn’t bred further⁴.

Later, breeding Tonga’s parents with American Shorthairs helped shape the Ocicat. The Cat Fanciers’ Association officially recognized the breed in 1986⁴. The TICA also recognized it in 1986⁵. The GCCF saw the Aztec as a breed in 2013 but merged it with the Ocicat in 2024, creating the Ocicat Classic⁴.

Ocicats come in twelve colours, like Tawny (black), chocolate, and cinnamon, and dilute shades like lilac and fawn⁴. They are more prone to health issues, such as urate urolithiasis, than other breeds⁴.

“The Ocicat breed was established in the 1960s by Virginia Daly in the United States.”⁵

Ocicat’s Appearance

Distinctive Markings and Coat

The Ocicat is a medium to large cat with a strong, muscular body and a unique spotted coat⁶. It stands 9″ to 11″ tall and weighs 6 to 15 pounds⁷. This cat has a sturdy build, with big chest muscles and strong bones⁷. Its head is shaped like a wedge, with a slight dip and a broad muzzle⁶. The eyes are big and almond-shaped, and the ears are large and wide at the base.

The Ocicat’s coat is short, sleek, and shiny⁶. It has a spotted pattern that covers the body⁶. You can see big “thumb print” spots on the sides and rows along the spine⁶. Originally, there were six colours for Ocicats: tawny, chocolate, cinnamon, blue, lilac, and fawn⁸. Now, there are twelve colours, with six having silver and six without⁸.

The Ocicat’s coat is not only beautiful but also easy to care for, needing little grooming⁷. This is because it has a short coat that sheds very little⁷.

Ocicat Personality and Temperament

The Ocicat may look exotic, but it’s warm at heart. These cats love being around people⁹ and are very social⁹. They’re smart⁹, full of energy⁹, and love to play⁹. They fit well in lively homes⁹.

Ocicats are friendly and easy to get along with, fitting into various homes⁹. They enjoy playing and learning tricks⁹. But, they don’t like being alone for a long time¹⁰. They do best with people around or other pets¹⁰.

The Ocicat’s mix of exotic looks and friendly nature makes it a great pet⁹¹⁰.

“The Ocicat is a delightful mix of wild looks and tame temperament. They are the perfect feline friend for active households.”

Colours and Varieties

Twelve Recognised Colours

The Ocicat is known for its stunning and varied colours. It has twelve recognised colours that reflect the beauty of wild cats¹¹. These include tawny, chocolate, and cinnamon, with their unique spotting patterns¹².

Other colours are blue, lilac, and fawn, each with its own special look¹¹. Each colour has a silver version too, showing the same spots on a silvery or creamy background¹².

The Ocicat’s range of colours shows its unique beauty¹¹. Some colours are common, but rare patterns and silver variations make them special¹².

Ocicat Care and Grooming

The Ocicat has a short, sleek coat that doesn’t need much grooming. A weekly brush with a rubber brush helps remove loose hairs. Sometimes, a polish with a chamois cloth can make the coat shine¹³. Only bathe the cat if it gets very dirty, and use special shampoos to make the coat colours bright¹³.

It’s also key to brush the cat’s teeth, trim its nails, and clean its ears regularly¹⁴. The Ocicat is a breed that’s easy to care for, needing only the usual grooming routine¹³.

The Ocicat’s coat is easy to maintain, making it perfect for those wanting a simple pet¹³. With just a few easy steps, owners can keep their Ocicat’s coat, nails, and teeth healthy. This ensures a happy and healthy pet.

Health and Lifespan

A Generally Healthy Breed

Ocicats are usually a healthy breed with a long life expectancy. They typically live between 15 and 18 years¹⁵. Their mixed genetic background helps them avoid many genetic issues. Yet, they can face health problems like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), liver or renal amyloidosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and pyruvate kinase deficiency¹⁵¹⁶.

Responsible breeders test for these conditions through DNA testing¹⁵. With the right care and regular vet visits, Ocicats can live long, healthy lives as loving pets¹⁵.

With careful breeding and proper vet care, Ocicats can enjoy long, healthy lives as beloved family pets¹⁶.

Ocicat as a Family Pet

The Ocicat is a great choice for families because of its friendly and sociable nature¹⁷. They are patient and tolerant with children, loving interactive play and affection¹⁷. When introduced carefully, Ocicats get along well with other pets, including dogs¹⁷. They are energetic and playful, doing well in homes where they get lots of attention and fun¹⁷. If given the company they need, Ocicats become loyal and loving pets.

Odicats are bred to be like wild cats but are also muscular and athletic¹⁸. They can be trained to play fetch and walk on a leash¹⁸. They can live up to 15 to 18 years, making them a long-term commitment¹⁸. With 18% of UK households owning a cat¹⁸, the Ocicat’s friendly and chatty nature makes it a favourite among families.

But, Ocicats are also very active and curious¹⁸. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and calm at home¹⁷. Socialising them between 2-7 weeks old helps them get along with kids and other pets¹⁷. They do best in calm homes with lots of space for play¹⁷. Their coat needs weekly grooming, showing the care they require.

Getting a healthy Ocicat means finding a reputable breeder¹⁷. Pedigree cats like Ocicats are more prone to disease and are costly to insure¹⁷. It’s wise to neuter them unless you’re a registered breeder¹⁷, highlighting the need for responsible pet ownership.

In conclusion, the Ocicat is perfect for families who want a loyal and loving pet. But, they need owners who can keep up with their energy and activity. With the right care, Ocicats can be wonderful additions to any family.

Training and Intelligence

A Highly Trainable Breed

The Ocicat is a very smart cat that loves to learn and stay active¹⁹. They are quick to learn new tricks and commands with clicker training²⁰. Their curiosity and wish to please make training fun, teaching them to fetch toys or solve puzzle feeders for treats²⁰.

Starting socialisation early helps Ocicats become polite pets that fit well in any home²⁰. They need lots of exercise and brain games but are great friends when they get it²⁰.

Ocicats are getting more popular worldwide because they’re smart and easy to train¹⁹. Breeders and owners love their mix of Abyssinian, Siamese, and American Shorthair traits. This makes them not just pretty but also smart and fun¹⁹.

Teaching Ocicats tricks, leash skills, or giving them puzzle toys is rewarding for both cat and owner²⁰. With patience, treats, and brain games, these cats can be wonderful, obedient pets at home.

Ocicat in the Show Ring

The Ocicat has made a big mark in cat shows since 1987²¹. It’s known for its athletic build and exotic look²²²¹. Judges look at its head shape, eye colour, and coat pattern²¹.

The Ocicat’s coat is a big hit, with 12 colours to choose from²³. Its friendly nature makes it a favourite in shows²³²¹.

• Ocicats are easy to train and fit well in the show ring²³²¹.
• Breeders look for long-term relationships to ensure their cats are well cared for²².
• Getting a neutered/spayed Ocicat is a good start for new show enthusiasts²².

Experienced Ocicat show people should mentor newcomers²². There are also cat agility programs for these smart cats²².

The Ocicat shines in the show ring with its achievements and charm²²²³²¹. Its unique look, friendly nature, and dedicated breeders make it a favourite worldwide²²²³²¹.

Finding an Ocicat Breeder

Looking for an Ocicat? Make sure to get it from a registered, reputable breeder. Good breeders check their cats for health issues and show DNA tests²⁴. They also meet the breed standard for looks and personality²⁴. It’s important to visit the cattery, meet the parents, and check the breeder’s methods to get a healthy, friendly kitten.

Thor’s Oak Cattery is a top choice for Ocicat breeders. They focus on healthy, defect-free Ocicats²⁵. Kittens are socialised with other cats to get used to home life and sounds²⁵. They work with breeders worldwide to bring in diverse, healthy cats from places like Russia and France²⁵.

Thor’s Oak Cattery shines in cat shows, winning big titles like the First-Ever GCCF Imperial Grand Champion, Ocicat Classic²⁵. They offer kittens for adoption and sometimes rehome retired cats²⁵. You can find them in Thurrock, near the A13 and M25, close to the Dartford Crossing²⁵.

When looking for an Ocicat breeder, focus on reputable sources, health checks, and breed standards. This ensures a good experience and a healthy Ocicat friend.

Conclusion

The Ocicat is a unique domestic²⁶ cat breed. It mixes the exotic look of wild cats with the friendly nature of a pet. They have an athletic build, sleek coats, and a wild look. These cats are a result of skilled breeding²⁶.

They are not just pretty to look at. These cats are smart, fun, and love being around people. They make great pets for families²⁷.

If you want a cat that looks wild but acts like a pet, the Ocicat is perfect²⁶. They are loved by cat lovers all over the world²⁶. Their playful nature, smarts, and easy learning make them great pets²⁶.

Odicats come in many colours²⁸. They have short, silky fur that’s easy to care for²⁶. They are healthy and make great pets²⁸. If you like their looks or their friendly nature, the Ocicat is a great choice.

Source Links

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