Snowshoe cat

The Snowshoe is a rare breed, partly due to the difficulty of breeding cats with markings and patterns that conform well to breed standards.[2][3] The Snowshoe's pattern relies on recessive genes and other factors to produce desired results.[6] One gene, which causes the "V" facial pattern is an example of incomplete dominance. If the offspring produced has two dominant genes for the marking, then the feature will be larger than a cat with one dominant gene.[2] However, other factors may influence the feature, which makes it difficult to predict the outcome.[2] Another issue is the white boots, which can be caused by a piebalding gene or a gloving gene. The genes are difficult to control, and many cats' boots extend too far up the leg, do not reach far enough up the leg, or the cat completely lacks white.[2] As such, pet-quality Snowshoes usually have too much white, too little white, or white features are mismarked.[3] The cats' body type further complicates breeding, as the breeder must achieve the correct head shape and ear set, while still maintaining the American Shorthair's body structure and the length of the Siamese.[2]

The ear size ranges from medium to medium-large with slightly rounded tips. The head may be triangular, however can be an "applehead" shape with a traditional cat look. The short-haired coat consists of solid and white patterns. Points (ears, tail, face-mask and sometimes legs) are solid black-based colours. White patterns vary, typically falling along the face, chest, stomach, and paws. The body is an even colouration, subtle shading to point colour on back, shoulders and hips; toning to a lighter shade near chest and stomach. Paw pads may be white, point colour, flesh tone, or mottled. Their colour will darken with age, even to the point of turning a chocolate brown shade. The eyes are always blue. The tail is medium-sized. Snowshoe cats come in blue, lilac, lynx, fawn, chocolate, and seal points. The Snowshoe is a medium-large cat and longer length wise than many cats, with many males reaching 6 kg (14 lbs) or more.

In registries and cat associations, the recognised Snowshoe coat colour is point colouration, with a light body colour and darker ears, face, legs, and tail. The ACFA recognises seal (black) and blue point colouration, while the FIFe recognises seal (black), blue, chocolate, red, cream, cinnamon, and fawn point colouration.[7][8][9] Additionally, the FIFe recognises the colours in tortoiseshell, tabby, and tortoiseshell-tabby coat patterns.[7] TICA recognises all pointed colours.[10] Snowshoe kittens are born white, and markings appear within 1 to 3 weeks. Each Snowshoe has a pattern unique to the individual cat.[11]

The Snowshoe's coat should be of medium to short in length, and should be bright and smooth with no noticeable undercoat.[7][11] It is considered a fault within cat associations if the Snowshoe has a plush or double coat.[7][8] The Snowshoe's coat undergoes seasonal changes and does not require much grooming.[11]

Snowshoes are generally affectionate, sweet-tempered, and mellow.[2][3] They enjoy the company of humans and being given attention, and are compatible with children and other pets.[2] Snowshoes are very social and docile, and show great devotion and love towards their owners. Consequently, the cats of this breed dislike being left alone for long periods of time and are able to cope with working hours better if they have another cat companion.[3] Snowshoes may express themselves and their complaints vocally, though their meows are not as loud as the Siamese. It is not unusual for a snowshoe to look concerned, they generally have a worried or concerned expression on their face for the majority of the time.[2][3] The cats are also noted as being intelligent; they can learn to open various types of doors, and can be taught tricks, especially fetch.[3] Snowshoes also enjoy water, particularly running water, and may on occasion swim.[2][3] Though very active, they are not restless or easily agitated, and they have a fondness for perching in high places.[3]