The Ocicat
"See those spots! Is this a wild cat? This must be something special!'
Indeed it is! This gorgious spotted beauty steals both the show and hearts of everyone who gets acquainted with the Ocicat-breed. They are spotted agouti cats of medium size, derived from cross-breedings with Abyssinians, Siamese and American shorthair. This relatively young breed originated in 1964 in the USA. A spotted kitten was born from a experimental crossing between an Abyssinian and a Siamese. Due to the resemblance with the wild feline species Ocelot, the breeder named it 'an Ocicat'. This was the basis under the development of an entire new breed. Nevertheless, it took more than 20 years before the breed Ocicat obtained official recognition, primarily in the USA, and 5 years later in Europe as well (1992).Nowadays, there are 12 colour-variaties which are dervied from the ancestor-breeds, and which are officially recognised: chocolate (brown), tawny (black), cinnamon, blue, lavender, fawn, and the same 6 spot colours but now highlighted on a silver background. Solely the tabby spotted pattern is admitted for shows.
The ideal Ocicat is an active animal with an athletic appearance with rippling muscles, strong body and good solid build, and a sleek and tight coat with satin sheen.
The colours have to be clear and 'pleasant'. The pattern on the coat is very special - the spots are like a thumbprint - the bigger the spots the better!
Large alert ears at a 45 degree angle, slightly slanted almond shaped eyes and a modified wedge head completes the picture, of a cat that looks as if it would be more at home in a Tarzan movie than in your living room. Eye color is typically golden, green or copper.
The Ocicat appears elegant and rather slender, but is surprisingly heavy when picked up. Female Ocicats weigh between 3.5 to 5 kil0gram (6-9 pounds). Male Ocicats weigh between 6 & 8 kilogram (9-14 pounds) and larger.
In contrast to other spotted breeds, no wild blood has been used to produce this beautiful animal.
Whilst the Ocicat looks wild, its temperament is anything but ferocious. Although they display the characteristics of the wild cats in the jungle, the temperament of the Ocicat is that of a true "pussy cat."
The Ocicat personality and temperament are predictable and loving - they make a wonderful addition to any household - they generally adapt readily to most situations. It is a lot like a dog in that it is absolutely devoted to people, children, and other animals in the house-hold. Their playful inclination coupled with an unmatched curiosity often result in humorous and comical antics. We find that Ocicats are extremely playful, but when playtime is over, they curl up on your lap for an extended purring session.
Hence, the Ocicat has the predictable temperament and the personality of a highly intelligent domestic cat, with the beauty and allure of a wild cat.Unfortunately, the Ocicat is not very well known in the Netherlands and other countries.
Would you like more information, please do not hesitate to contact us by email.More information is also available on the website of our Dutch Ocicat breed-association NORV/DOBC.
