Snowshoe (cat)

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Snowshoe

Country of origin
United States
Breed standard
FIFe	: standard
TICA	: standard
AACE	: standard
ACFA	: standard

The Snowshoe is a breed of cat. The first Snowshoes appeared in the 1960s in the United States as a result of cross-breeding between a Siamese and a bi-colored American Shorthair producing a sturdy, pointed cat with white markings on the face, chest and feet. The Snowshoe can be, but not necessarily a relatively small cat with a lean and muscular stature. The ACFA standard for this cat breed states that it gives the appearance of great power and agility, yet has the look of a runner rather than a weight lifter.

The ear size ranges from medium to medium-large with slightly rounded tips. The head may be triangular, however can be an "applehead" shape with a traditional cat look. The short-haired coat consists of solid and white patterns. Points (ears, tail, face-mask and sometimes legs) are solid black-based colors. White patterns vary, typically falling along the face, chest, stomach, and paws. The body is an even coloration, subtle shading to point color on back, shoulders and hips; toning to a lighter shade near chest and stomach. Paw pads may be white, point color, flesh tone, or mottled. Their color will darken with age, even to the point of turning a chocolate brown shade. In purebreds, the eyes are always blue. The tail is medium-sized. Snowshoe cats come in blue, lilac, lynx, fawn, chocolate, and seal points.

They are generally sweet tempered, energetic, playful, quite vocal, 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. They usually are friendly to everyone in the household, but will typically be primarily focused on one person in the household.

Their colors and markings become visible within 1-3 weeks after being born. The pattern on each of these cats are different for each Snowshoe. The Snowshoe is considered to be a rare breed.