Description
Size: 6- 15 lbs.
The perfect Ocicat has sturdy, oval-shaped paws, large, strong legs, and almond-shaped eyes. The head is shaped like a wedge, longer than wider. Their ears are 45 degrees off-center. The huge, contrasting markings that resemble a fingerprint are one of this breed’s most distinctive features. The breed appears powerful and strong due to its huge, well-muscled frame. On average, females weigh 6 to 9 pounds, and males weigh 9 to 15 pounds. Most associations, like The Cat Fanciers’ Association, Inc., accept twelve color variations. The Ocicat breed’s standard specifies tawny (genetic black), chocolate, and cinnamon, as well as their diluted hues of blue, lavender, fawn, black or ebony silver, chocolate, and cinnamon, and blue silver.
Behavior
Activity Level: Active
Social needs:
Even though they are pleasant and affectionate to other members of the household, Occiats have a tendency to bond with just one person and prefer that person’s company to all others. They get along well with both people and other animals, and they value having a pet to keep them company if they are ever left alone for an extended period of time.
Origin/History
A relatively new breed of cat, the Ocicat, was created in the 1960s in America as a consequence of certain experimental mating. Breeders intended to create an Abyssinian pointed Siamese, but instead, they created a kitten with an incredible coat of gold spots against an ivory background. Because of his appearance, he was given the nickname Ocicat. American Shorthairs were incorporated into the breeding program, bringing with them beautiful silver colors and robust bone and musculature. The first Ocicats made their way to Britain in 1988.
Care as a Pet
All cats, including ocicats, should live indoors. Giving your cat access to a tall cat tree can encourage safe climbing and provide them access to the outdoor vistas that all cats adore because there are less possibilities for exercise indoors. An ociocat’s “wild” energy can also be directed into play with the aid of toys.
The sharp-witted, exuberant ocicat might also appreciate exploring the outdoors in safety, which is something it is capable of doing after being taught to walk with a harness or walking jacket and leash. One of the few breeds, ocicats are eager to learn new abilities and tricks, and clicker training is an excellent method for teaching them.
Nutrition and Diet
A food suitable for the species is required to support the health and active lifestyle of an ocicat’s powerful, athletic body. Grain-free and raw meals are frequently favoured, but speak with your veterinarian about any potential issues with specific plant-based diets that can possibly be deficient in taurine (an amino acid necessary for cats’ healthy vision).
Grooming needs
The short, dense coat of the Ocicat takes little maintenance; a rubber curry comb and the chamois cloth will bring out the gloss. Regular nail cutting is recommended (it is preferable to teach a kitten to accept trimming early on), and using a scratching post or cardboard scratcher will also maintain the nails healthy while protecting your upholstery.
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