Ocicat

History
Ocicat is a domestic breed of cat which resembles a 'wild' cat as it is spotted like a wild cat but has no wild temperament. It is named Ocicat because of its resemblance to the ocelot. The first Ocicat was created in 1964 when Virginia Daly, a Michigan breeder interested in new and unusual varieties of cats, tried to create a Siamese with Abyssinian-colored points. This breed is actually a mixture of Siamese and Abyssinian, and later American Shorthairs (silver tabbies) were also added to mix and gave the breed their silver color, bone structure with distinct markings. In 1965, the first Ocicat was exhibited to the CFA and in 1966 the CFA accepted the breed for registration. It achieved the Championship status in 1987. Today, the Ocicat is famous all around the world.

Appearance
The Ocicat is popular for its cool temperament but wild appearance. It is generally found in medium to large size. It is famous as a well-spotted agouti cat of moderate type. It has a solid, well-muscled and well-balanced long body. It has a short, close coat with a satin sheen. Ocitats have large, almond-shaped eyes with variety of colors. The twelve colors approved for the ocicat breed are: Tawny, chocolate and cinnamon, blue, lavender and fawn, and all of them are found with silver color added: black silver or ebony silver, chocolate silver, cinnamon silver, blue silver, lavender silver and fawn silver.

Personality
Ocitats are trustworthy and non-aggressive cats. They can be easily trained and respond really well to the voice. They have a sociable nature and easily adapt themselves to new environment. They love to get along with other pets. Ocicat is very outgoing breed. They are often compared to the dog and said to have the spirit of a dog-in a cat's body. Most of them, just like dogs, can easily be trained to fetch, walk on a leash and harness. They also come when called, speak, sit, and lie down on command. Some of them are even fond of water. Ocicats are also very friendly and thus, easily mix up with strangers. This makes them one of the most liked family pets. Ocicats require more attention than other cats as they do not like to be left alone by their owners. They are so outgoing that if given a chance they can even climb your shoulders. Thus, on the whole, it can be said that Ocicats have all the traits which are required for making a good pet.