The Snowshoe Cat is a remarkably handsome breed, blending the solid build of the American Shorthair with the elegance and streamlined shape of the Siamese Cat. With a rounded head, wide-set ears, and large slanting eyes, this medium to large cat boasts an athletic frame, oval paws, and a moderate-length tail, perfectly suited for agile movement. The Snowshoe’s unique coat pattern and signature "V" facial markings make it a standout in cat associations and among cat fanciers. Known for its playful yet dog-like personality, this breed is well loved in the cat community for its adaptable nature and distinctive white footed appearance.

• Playful and curious.
• Weekly Grooming needed.
• Thrives in family settings.
• Slightly vocal.
• Loves Cat Toys.
• Ideal for first time owners.
• Sociable and affectionate.
• Best for calm households.
• Purrs frequently.
• Fine alone during the day.
• Enjoys outdoor space.
• Known for Kneading behavior.
• Average build.
• Reads Body Language well.
• Active and enjoys games.
• Prone to Gingivitis, monitor Cat Teeth.

Snowshoe Cats are generally healthy, but they can be prone to a few specific health issues:

• Dental Issues – Snowshoe Cats may be prone to Gingivitis and periodontal disease, so regular dental checkups and cleanings are recommended to keep their teeth healthy.

• ---

  Obesity – Due to their playful and affectionate nature, Snowshoes can sometimes overeat, leading to Feline Obesity. A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential for weight management.

• ---

  Respiratory Issues – Some Snowshoe Cats may inherit respiratory sensitivities from their Siamese ancestry, making them prone to minor respiratory infections or sensitivities.

• ---

  Genetic Predispositions – While generally hardy, they can inherit conditions from either Siamese or American Shorthair lines, though responsible breeding practices reduce this risk.

• ---

  Eye Issues – Snowshoe Cats are known for their striking blue eyes, but this trait can sometimes correlate with sensitivity to light or minor eye issues.

Testing available:

DNA Testing for PKD – A DNA test can determine whether a Snowshoe Cat carries the gene for polycystic kidney disease, helping identify the risk of developing this condition.

As a Cat Breed with Siamese ancestry (often crossed back to Siamese to retain certain traits), the Snowshoe Cat brings a lively and engaging personality to the home. Although less demanding and softer in voice than the Siamese, the Snowshoe remains a chatty, chirrupy companion who forms strong bonds with its owners and can sometimes be quite bossy.

Known for their curiosity and adventurous spirit, Snowshoe Cats are often clever enough to avoid danger, but your ornaments might not be as lucky! Whether friendly, independent, or taking on a "care-giver" role, this medium-large, American Shorthair influenced breed is a favorite among cat fanciers and the Cat Association for its distinctive white footed, "V" facial coat pattern. However your Snowshoe’s cat personality emerges, one thing’s certain, they are never a boring cat!

The Snowshoe cat is captivating with its unique blend of Siamese and American Shorthair features. Born all-white, they develop color points on their face, ears, paws, and tail in shades like seal and blue, beautifully contrasting with their white “V” facial marking and signature white paws. Their coat is short, soft, and glossy, complementing their muscular yet graceful build. With high cheekbones and large, vivid blue eyes, Snowshoes have an intense, charming gaze that makes this breed truly unforgettable.

The Snowshoe cat breed originated in the early 1960s when an American breeder discovered three kittens in a Siamese litter with white feet. Captivated by this unique look, she decided to create a new breed that blended the Siamese’s elegance and color-pointed coat with the distinctive white markings seen in other breeds. To achieve this, she crossed Siamese cats with American Shorthairs, whose solid build softened the angular Siamese frame. Interest in the Snowshoe cat fluctuated over the years, and records were sparse, but by 1989, approximately 30 breeders were established in the U.S., and The International Cat Association awarded the breed Champion status in 1994.

A secure outdoor area, such as a fully enclosed garden or a dedicated cat run, greatly benefits the Snowshoe cats physical and mental well being. Fresh air and sunshine are beneficial for all cats, including the Snowshoe cat. Ideally, they should have access to this space through a cat flap, but this should not replace time spent with their human companion. A cat run filled with platforms, branches, Cat Tunnels, and Cat Toys will keep them entertained, yet they still thrive on human interaction and companionship.

Snowshoe cats and delicate décor don’t mix well, prepare for shelves to frequently fall victim to their curious nature. It’s best to clear surfaces, offer ample climbing areas, and provide high platforms or Cat Window Beds to satisfy their love of altitude. The more spaces they have to climb and rest on, the better! Snowshoes are also playful, affectionate, and enjoy attention, often delighting in food Puzzle Feeders and hidden treats. Some cats will eagerly chase string toys, while others may be less impressed, observe what your Snowshoe prefers, and they’ll certainly let you know what keeps them happy!

Each cat is unique, with individual tastes, dislikes, and nutritional needs. However, as obligate carnivores, all cats require 41 specific nutrients from their diet. The balance of these nutrients varies based on factors like age, lifestyle, and overall health; for instance, a playful, growing kitten has different dietary needs than a less active senior cat. It’s also essential to provide the right amount of food to help them maintain an ideal body condition, following feeding guidelines, and to respect their preference for wet or dry food.

Find out more about Cat Nutrition with our article. 

Snowshoe cats are generally good at self grooming, but a weekly brush is beneficial for bonding, checking for parasites, and removing loose fur. If your cat’s coat appears greasy, it may be a sign they’re not grooming themselves, which could indicate a health issue.

As with all cats, Regular Vaccinations and Flea Control are essential to keep them healthy.

The Snowshoe cat is best suited to a calm home with owners who understand and can meet a cat's needs. They do well with older children who respect their space but may find very busy, noisy households or homes with frequent young visitors a bit overwhelming.

• The ‘Accidental’ Breed: The Snowshoe cat wasn’t originally planned! In the 1960s, Dorothy Hinds-Daugherty, a Siamese breeder in Philadelphia, found three kittens with white feet in a litter. Struck by their unique look, she experimented by crossing Siamese cats with American Shorthairs, giving rise to the Snowshoe breed.

• ---

  Limited Numbers Worldwide: Snowshoe cats are still considered a rare breed. Their distinct markings are challenging to breed consistently, so even now, there are relatively few registered Snowshoe cats worldwide compared to other popular breeds.

• ---

  Personality Chameleons: Snowshoe cats are known to adapt their personalities based on their human companions. They can be highly interactive and vocal with outgoing owners, while they might act more reserved and independent with quieter households. This flexibility makes them incredibly in tune with their environment.

• ---

  The ‘Lap Dog’ Cat: Known for their dog-like loyalty, Snowshoe cats are famous for following their owners around the house, often sticking close like a shadow. They form especially strong bonds with one person and may be more affectionate and attentive to that individual.

• ---

  Show Stopping Markings: Their trademark white paws and inverted "V" on the face aren’t guaranteed in each litter. Because of the genetic complexity involved, breeders can’t predict these markings with certainty, making every Snowshoe’s coat a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. This unpredictability adds to their rarity and makes each one truly unique.

• ---

  Best known celebrity Snowshoe cat owner: James Dean, the iconic American actor. Dean's Snowshoe cat, named Marcus, was famously gifted to him by actress Elizabeth Taylor while they were filming Giant in 1955. Dean adored Marcus and was often photographed with him, helping popularize the Snowshoe cat’s distinctive look even before the breed was officially recognized. This unique connection added to the mystique and charm of both Dean and the Snowshoe cat.