August 5, 2024, 6:06 am | Read time: 3 minutes
The Snowshoe cat originates from the USA and, according to the breed standard, actually wears white snowshoes, although this only refers to its coat pattern. The breed is extremely rare and has an interesting character.
Origin
The origin of the Snowshoe dates back to the 1960s in the USA. While breeding Siamese cats, a litter was created that had white paws instead of the characteristic dark legs, which earned them the name Snowshoe cat. Only a few breeders took up the breed, so it is still quite rare. However, because of its exceptionally beautiful appearance, it is also popular in Germany and a secret tip if you find the right breeder.
Appearance & coat
The Snowshoe is of medium size and has rather long and slender legs, which indicates its relationship to Siamese cats. Their tail is also rather fine and becomes thinner towards the tip. Their head is usually wedge-shaped and their ears relatively large, but in a healthy breed, the face is somewhat rounder than in the classic Siamese cat.
The Snowshoe cat, however, has several recognized colors that distinguish it from its ancestor. Popular colors are cream, white, or purple, but mixed colors of brown, gray, and chocolate are also permitted. The pattern ranges from tabby to the classic point pattern, but tortoiseshell (tricolored) or bicolored coats are also possible in the Snowshoe.
Character & disposition
The Snowshoe is very independent, but also curious and intelligent. In fact, they often have a mind of their own. They are very affectionate and dislike being left alone, which is why they should be kept with other cats or companion animals. They get along well with dogs and children if they have been well socialized with them and given their freedom.
Training & activity
As the Snowshoe can be quite headstrong, training can be rather challenging. If they don’t want to do something, they won’t do it. Scolding does not help at all. As the cat is very attached to people and also likes to cuddle, training and education should be approached primarily through closeness and a good relationship with them.
Correct keeping & care
The Snowshoe is considered a very affectionate cat that also has a mind of its own. Compared to other cat breeds, they meow a lot. On the other hand, grooming is easy due to their short and usually very silky coat. Regular brushing is therefore not essential for the Snowshoe, but it provides a good opportunity for social interaction with the cat.
The Snowshoe is very curious and has a keen interest in its surroundings. It should therefore be given plenty of high places to lie and a large scratching post. Searching games also encourage their innate curiosity and dexterity.
Diet
The Snowshoe needs a complete and protein-rich diet. As a carnivore, this should also be the main part of their daily diet. Grains should be avoided, and vegetable matter should not constitute more than 5 percent of their diet.
Susceptibility to certain diseases
Responsible breeding of the Snowshoe is crucial, as its close relationship to the Siamese cat can predispose it to the various hereditary diseases of the breed. These include squinting, kinked tails, and dwarfism.
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The Snowshoe at a glance
- Character: cuddly, headstrong, but attached to people,
- Size: medium-sized
- Weight: 3 to 6 kilos (6.6 to 13.2 pounds)
- Coat: short and silky
- Care: easy to care for, enjoys spending time with its caregivers
- Special features: very rare in Germany; verify the credibility of offers and investigate the breeding lines in advance