The Ocicat is an all-domestic breed of domestic cat which resembles a wild cat but has no (recent) wild DNA in its gene pool. It has a spotted tabby coat, and is named for its resemblance to the ocelot. The first generation of kittens appeared Abyssinian-like, and a female named Dalai She was kept. Dalai She was later bred to a chocolate point Siamese tom named Whitehead Elegante Sun. Daly corresponded with geneticist Dr. Clyde Keeler of Georgia University,

The Ocicat would first be brought to the United Kingdom in 1988 when two cats: Catoninetail Mr Smith and Catoninetail Miss Jones were imported from the United States. Four more would be imported a year later. A total of 33 Ocicats would be imported before 2015. Other breeders joined in and used the same recipe; Siamese to Abyssinian, and offspring to Siamese.

Breed recognition

thumb|Chocolate spotted tabby

In 1966 the breed was recognised with the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) for registration only. It was more than 20 years later in May 1987 that the Ocicat achieved championship status with the CFA. The International Cat Association (TICA) recognised the Ocicat in 1986.

Characteristics

Appearance

thumb|Black spotted tabby

The Ocicat is a medium to large cat with agouti tabby markings. It has the appearance of an athletic animal: well-muscled and lithe. The muzzle is broad and well defined with gentle curvature of the head. Ears are set around a 45-degree angle. Legs are of medium to long length and well-muscled with a good proportion to the body. The tail is long, slim with a slight taper and has a dark tip. Adult Ocicats weigh between . A Swedish study of pyometra in cats based on veterinary and insurance data found the Ocicat to have the third highest incidence of the condition with it being six times the rate for all cats.

References

  • Federation Feline international Breed Profile: Ocicat
  • Cat Fanciers' Association Breed Profile: Ocicat
  • CFA Ocicat Breed Council