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The Ocicat is a fairly recent, man-made addition to the cat fancy. It is a medium-sized, well-proportioned and lustrous cat that has surprising weight for its moderate size. Ocicats are solid and well-muscled, with a noticeable fullness of body and chest. Their hindquarters are slightly higher than their shoulders when viewed in profile. The breed has powerful legs, strong paws, a triangular-shaped head, a strong chin and a straight, tapered tail that typically ends in black. The Ocicat’s large, almond-shaped eyes tilt slightly upward at the outer corners. Blue eyes are not permitted in the show ring, but all other eye colors are and need not be linked to coat color. Ocicats have large, prominent ears that preferably are tufted and lynx-like. They are moderate in type, meaning that they are neither extremely chunky or cobby, or especially elegant or Oriental, in appearance. This breed gives you an instant impression of strength and power, much like that of the wild Ocelot cat after which it is named. Ocicat kittens resemble the cubs of wild cat litters and are especially endearing.

The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) profile for the Ocicat recognizes that “never before was there such an effort to develop an entirely domestic cat which can offer the spotted beauty of the wild cats, while maintaining the lovely, predictable disposition of the domestic cat.” The Ocicat indeed does look wild. However, it is neither ferocious nor fierce in disposition, nor is it shy or retiring in temperament. This is an affectionate, loving breed that is unfailingly devoted to its owners. Ocicats are not overly demanding, pushy or clingy. They tend to be extroverted, self-confident animals that are friendly and outgoing, even with strangers. Because of their personable and highly social nature, Ocicats get along well with most other household pets – including cats and dogs. However, they are not well-suited to being left alone for long stretches of time, as they require companionship and attention. Ocicats usually can be brought into a household that has existing companion animals with little confrontation or adjustment. The intelligence and overall friendliness of the Ocicat are a testament to its close Siamese, Abyssinian and American Shorthair ancestry.