“A cat has absolute emotional honesty: human beings may hide their sentiments for one reason or another, but a cat does not,” Ernest Hemingway once stated.
This remark seems to have been written just for Ocicat cats by Earnest Hemingway! Every cat fan wishes for a cat that is strong, ferocious, attractive, and wild-looking all at once.
However, we sometimes overlook the reality that cats with these traits would be equally tough to care for and live with.
The combination of a leopard-like appearance and a kind demeanour was thought to be impossible. With the introduction of Ocicat, however, this combination was no longer impossible.
Ocicats are not only beautiful to look at, but they’re also hard to resist. They are outgoing, energetic, and self-assured. This cross is the product of the crossing of Siamese, American Shorthairs, and Abyssinians, and it has a wild appearance but not a wild nature.
Don’t judge a book by its cover, as the saying goes. Similarly, don’t characterise Ocicats as ‘wild’ based on their wild appearance.
It’s because, despite its appearance, Ocicat doesn’t have a large gene pool. Ocicats get their name from the ‘Ocelot,’ a little wild American cat, but they have a more domestic attitude.
Not only that, but they are talkative and friendly, unlike other shy cats. They can be seen cheerfully welcoming visitors and strangers, as well as enthusiastically playing with dogs, other cats, and youngsters.
These ‘lap cats’ are drawn to their owners’ attention and are frequently observed rushing around the house, pitter-pattering.
These cats with the bulls’ eye pattern and thumb-shaped patches are amazing, aren’t they? They share a lot of intriguing qualities and a comparable history. Do you want to learn more about them? Then continue scrolling.
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Ocicat Cats Have a Long History
Ocicats have a long and illustrious history. Like any other suspense thriller, their story includes ups and downs, intermission, and finally success. Do you wish to learn more about it? Then have a peek.
Virginia Dally, a cat breeder from Berkeley, Minch, was born in 1964. She combined the best characteristics of the two most popular breeds, Abyssinians and Siamese. She crossed them and gave birth to tick-coated kittens in the first litter.
She noticed a male kitten with wild cat-like patches in the second litter. She gave him the name ‘Tonga’ since he fascinated her. She continued to crossbreed these two types, eventually adding American Shorthair to the mix as well. As a result, the ‘Ocicat breed’ was born.
Everything was going well, and in 1965, Tonga was the first Ocicat to be presented at the CFA show. What is a story without a twist, though? Daly began to care for her sick relatives, and the breed went into hibernation.
This was only temporary, as she returned the favour in the early 1980s. From then on, the breed’s popularity and prominence continued to rise to new heights.
Ocicat was given championship status in 1987 and is now ranked 18th in popularity among CFA approved breeds.
Ocicat Physical Characteristics
When you think of Ocicat’s physical traits, what is the first thing that springs to mind? Their dark contrasting patches, of course! However, there are numerous other characteristics that distinguish our Ocicats from others.
They are huge and, based on their appearance, exude power and strength. Their almond-shaped eyes are huge, and they have large muscular legs with dark patterns. These cats’ oval-shaped paws are extremely powerful, complementing their huge, robust build.
They have the body structure of an ocelot, and their vicious appearance makes them appear wild, despite their domestic nature. Their body structure is a cross between that of an Oriental shorthair and that of a hardy American shorthair.
Male Ocicats are larger and more powerful than females. Males weigh between 9 and 15 pounds on average, while females weigh between 6 and 9 pounds.
Is it true that Ocicats are solely brown in colour? No, it is not correct. Twelve colour varieties of Ocicat have been accepted by registries such as Cat Fancier’s Association and others.
Chocolate and cinnamon, as well as dilutes of these hues, lavender, blue, and fawn, ebony silver, blue silver, lavender silver, cinnamon silver, chocolate silver, fawn silver, and additional colours are available.
These hues are the standard versions of colours in them; nevertheless, the shades of these colours make additional distinctions.
What Are These Cats’ Favorite Things to Do?
You might think that they are reserved and less outgoing based on their wild appearance. You’re probably thinking if they enjoy being around people. Well! Don’t be fooled by their outlandish appearance.
Actually, they have a tabby disposition and become good human friends. They enjoy spending time with their masters, as well as other cats, dogs, and children in the family. They like going with their visitors and make an effort to keep their attention.
Not only that, but they despise being alone, and the lack of company makes them depressed.
They know how to get people’s attention! They can, however, become overbearing at times. However, they adore having meow-meow chats with their owners and are ready to sit and play at any time.
They are not only lively and engaged, but they are also intelligent. They understand the instructions quickly and are eager to learn new things.
They easily grasp everything from simple tricks to intricate obedience requirements. They are also easily trainable! Because they are naturally athletic, they enjoy leaping from great heights and pretending to be hunters.
What You Should Know About Ocicats
Oh, my goodness! Cats are a complete disaster! They necessitate an excessive amount of attention! They require far too much upkeep! Are you putting off getting an Ocicat because of these concerns?
If this is the case, don’t be concerned. Ocicats are actually quite simple to care for. Their coat is low-maintenance and may be kept ‘clean and shining’ without exerting too much effort.
You can improve the appearance of their coat by wiping a chamois across it once a week. This procedure eliminates dead hair and distributes its natural oils evenly.
They are not only’sniffers,’ but also’spies.’ They are enthralled by new goods in the house and attempt to get their hands on them as quickly as possible.
As a result, keep your valuables hidden behind closed doors or cabinets to avoid your kitty playing with them. Don’t forget to use childproof latches on those doors, almirahs, and cabinets!
Ocicats, by the way, are prone to gingivitis, or gum irritation. Brush your cat’s teeth on a regular basis to protect him or her from this condition. This would keep tartar from forming on their diamond-white teeth.
Conclusion
Ocicats are spotted cats that resemble wildcats and are exceedingly outgoing and affectionate. They like playing with both four-legged and double-legged individuals. They are bright and adaptable, and they like living in a busy environment.
An experienced cat owner can readily overcome their ‘demanding’ character, and if properly educated, they may learn complex obedience commands quickly.
If you don’t have time to contribute, don’t bring one home. If you don’t have the time, finances, or affection to offer to this cat, or any other breed, don’t get one. But what are you waiting for if you have all of them? Grab one of these Ocicats for yourself.
