Group Classification: Shorthair
Country of Origin: U.S.
Date of Origin: 1960s
Weight (M): 9-12 lbs.
Weight (F): 6-9 lbs.
Life Expectancy: 12 years

History
Dorothy Hinds-Daugherty, a breeder in Philadelphia, PA, began crossing Siamese with American Shorthairs in the 1960s. Because of early opposition to the hybrid, mostly from Siamese breeders, Snowshoes did not get recognized by TICA until the 1980s.

General Description
These attractive felines are either mitted or bicolor, depending on their facial markings. They have the broad head of an American Shorthair, with a semi-foreign body. Overall they have medium frames, with legs in proportion to body size and somewhat thick tails that taper towards the tip.

Colors
Mitted: Seal, chocolate, blue, lilac, lynx, fawn
Bicolor: All mitted colors with white
The distribution of point color and white is carefully outlined in the breed standard. Different associations and registries may not recognize all of the colors above.

Coat
Snowshoes do have an undercoat, but it should not be noticeable through the short smooth topcoat.

Notable Features
Crisp white'snowshoes' on their feet are the classic feature of these friendly cats.

Health and Care
These hearty cats need little grooming other than regular petting. Bathe only when necessary, although since they like water, owners may want to take them swimming or bathing just for fun. Snowshoes are outgoing and animated, enjoying games and romps with their family members. They adapt well to changes in their environment and regularly'speak' their minds.

Resources
Snowshoe Cat Lovers at www.sncats.tripod.com
The Snowshoe Cat Society at www.snowshoecatsociety.co.uk