Summarize this article with:
A cat with leopard spots lounging on your couch sounds like fantasy, but Ocicat cats make it reality.
These domestic spotted cats fool everyone with their wild appearance. Zero wild DNA exists in their genes.
Created by accident in 1964, this athletic breed combines the best traits of Abyssinian, Siamese, and American Shorthair cats. The result? A muscular, intelligent companion with dog-like loyalty.
You’ll learn everything about Ocicats in this guide. We cover their personality, health issues, care requirements, and costs.
Whether you’re considering adoption or just curious about this exotic-looking breed, you’ll discover if an Ocicat fits your lifestyle. Their spotted coat catches eyes, but their demanding nature catches owners off guard.
Ocicat Cat Breed Statistics
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | Males: 10-15 lbs, Females: 6-12 lbs |
| Height | 9-11 inches |
| Length | Up to 18 inches (nose to tail) |
| Lifespan | 12-18 years |
| Coat Type | Short, sleek, satiny |
| Coat Colors | 12 variations (tawny, chocolate, cinnamon, blue, lavender, fawn + silver versions) |
| Shedding | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs | Low (weekly brushing) |
| Energy Level | Very high |
| Exercise Needs | 60-90 minutes daily |
| Trainability | High (dog-like, learns commands) |
| Intelligence | Very high |
| Vocalization | Moderate (chatty but not loud) |
| Affection Level | Very high |
| Good with Children | Yes (ages 6+) |
| Good with Dogs | Yes (with proper introduction) |
| Good with Cats | Yes |
| Stranger Friendly | Very friendly |
| Apartment Suitable | Yes (with vertical space) |
| Independence | Low (needs companionship) |
| Playfulness | Very high |
| Attention Needs | High (2-3 hours daily) |
| Separation Anxiety Risk | High |
| Origin | United States (Michigan, 1964) |
| Breed Type | Hybrid (Abyssinian, Siamese, American Shorthair) |
| Recognition | CFA (1987), TICA (1986), GCCF (2006) |
| Price Range | $800-$2,500 |
| Annual Cost | $1,000-$2,500 |
| Common Health Issues | HCM, renal amyloidosis, PRA, PK deficiency |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
What Is an Ocicat Cat?
The Ocicat is a fully domestic spotted cat breed designed to look like a wild ocelot but with zero wild DNA.
Created in 1964 through breeding Abyssinian cats with Siamese, then later adding American Shorthair bloodlines, this athletic breed sports distinctive thumbprint-shaped spots across a muscular frame.
The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) registered the first Ocicat in 1966. The breed achieved championship status with CFA in 1987 and with The International Cat Association (TICA) that same year.
The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy granted provisional recognition in 2002 and full championship status in 2006.
Despite looking feral, these cats act more like dogs. They fetch toys, learn commands, and follow their people everywhere.
The breed developed completely by accident. Virginia Daly wanted to create Abyssinian-pointed Siamese cats, not spotted ones.
When her daughter saw the first spotted kitten (named Tonga), she said it looked like an ocelot. The name stuck.
Physical Characteristics
How Big Do Ocicat Cats Get?
Males weigh 10 to 15 pounds. Females range from 6 to 12 pounds.
Some males exceed 15 pounds. These cats feel heavier than they look because of dense muscle mass.
Height at the shoulder measures 9 to 11 inches. Body length from nose to tail tip reaches 18 inches.
This medium to large breed has a semi-foreign body type. Strong bone structure and powerful muscles create an athletic silhouette.
Growth happens slowly. Ocicats reach full height around 12 months but continue filling out until 18 to 24 months.
What Does an Ocicat Cat’s Coat Look Like?
Short, sleek fur lies close to the body with a satiny texture.
The coat has a lustrous sheen. Each hair (except on the tail tip) features multiple color bands that create the spotted pattern.
Twelve color variations exist:
- Tawny (brown spotted)
- Chocolate
- Cinnamon
- Blue
- Lavender (lilac)
- Fawn
- Ebony silver
- Chocolate silver
- Cinnamon silver
- Blue silver
- Lavender silver
- Fawn silver
Thumbprint-shaped spots cover the torso and belly. Darker spots contrast dramatically against lighter base colors.
The tail always ends in a dark tip. A tabby “M” marking sits above the eyes.
Shedding stays moderate. Weekly brushing removes dead hair and keeps the coat shiny.
Some Ocicats display classic tabby patterns or solid colors, but spotted coats dominate the breed standard.
Distinctive Physical Features
Large almond-shaped eyes angle slightly upward. Any eye color works except blue.
Green, gold, copper, amber, and hazel appear most often. Dark markings around the eyes look like natural eyeliner.
Ears sit large and alert at 45-degree angles on the head. Some cats grow tufts at the ear tips, similar to a lynx.
The head forms a modified wedge shape. Broader than it is long, with a well-defined muzzle that suggests squareness.
A strong chin completes the facial structure. Males sometimes develop jowls.
Medium to long legs support the muscular body. Strong and well-proportioned, these powerful limbs enable impressive jumping ability.
Paws are oval and compact (five toes front, four back). The tail runs fairly long with a slight taper.
The neck arches gracefully. This athletic breed moves with purpose and holds its head high.
Ocicat Personality and Temperament
Are Ocicat Cats Affectionate?
Extremely. These cats bond intensely with their favorite person and follow them room to room.
They seek physical contact constantly but aren’t overly clingy. Lap sitting happens on their terms.
Strangers get warm welcomes. Ocicats greet visitors at the door and inspect new people without fear.
Attention requirements run high. Plan for 2 to 3 hours of daily interaction.
Leaving them alone for long periods causes separation anxiety. They get depressed without companionship.
Many owners get a second pet. Ocicats regain their cheerful nature when they have a playmate.
How Active Are Ocicat Cats?
Very high energy. These athletic cats need 60 to 90 minutes of active play daily.
They zoom around the house, leap to high vantage points, and climb everything available.
Play drive stays intense throughout life. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and fetch games keep them engaged.
Intelligence levels match their activity. These smart cats learn tricks quickly and respond to verbal commands.
Cat trees become essential. Provide multiple levels for climbing and perching.
Mental stimulation matters as much as physical exercise. Rotate toys to prevent boredom.
Many Ocicats love water. They poke paws into sinks, showers, and aquariums out of curiosity.
Do Ocicat Cats Get Along with Others?
Yes, with proper introductions.
Children compatibility rates high. Ocicats tolerate kid energy and gentle handling well.
They work best with kids over 6 who understand how to respect cats.
Dogs make good companions, especially if introduced as kittens. The breed’s dog-like personality helps them bond with canines.
Other cats usually work out fine. Ocicats enjoy feline companionship and adapt well to multi-cat homes.
Territorial tendencies stay low. These social cats rarely start conflicts.
Hierarchy matters in multi-pet homes. Ocicats often establish themselves as leaders through personality, not aggression.
How Vocal Are Ocicat Cats?
Moderately vocal. Not as loud as Siamese but more talkative than average cats.
They communicate with chirps, meows, and melodic sounds. Voice characteristics lean soft and engaging.
Conversational cats that “talk back” when spoken to. The more you chat with them, the more they respond.
Purring happens frequently when content. These cats use their voice to express needs and desires clearly.
Health and Lifespan
How Long Do Ocicat Cats Live?
12 to 18 years on average. Many reach 15 years with proper care.
This lifespan exceeds some purebred cats but matches the average domestic cat range.
Genetic diversity from three parent breeds (Abyssinian, Siamese, American Shorthair) contributes to hybrid vigor.
Good nutrition, regular vet care, and indoor living extend longevity.
Common Health Issues in Ocicat Cats
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) affects some lines. This heart condition causes thickening of the heart muscle.
Symptoms include shortness of breath, lethargy, and fainting. Onset can occur at any age.
No cure exists, but medication and monitoring manage symptoms. Annual echocardiograms detect HCM early.
Prevalence rates aren’t precisely documented, but it remains the most common feline heart disease.
Renal Amyloidosis occurs when insoluble protein deposits in kidneys. This hereditary condition appears more in Ocicats than most breeds.
Symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and vomiting.
The disease damages kidney function progressively. Early detection through blood work helps manage progression.
Treatment involves dietary therapy and medications. Some lines carry higher risk than others.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) causes retinal degeneration leading to blindness.
Night blindness appears first around 18 to 24 months. Complete vision loss typically happens by 3 to 4 years.
No treatment exists, but blind cats adapt well. Genetic testing identifies carriers, making this less common now.
Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency affects red blood cells, causing anemia.
Symptoms include fatigue, lethargy, jaundice, and rapid heartbeat. This recessive gene condition gets removed through DNA testing.
Reputable breeders test for PK deficiency before breeding. The condition rarely appears in kittens from tested lines.
Liver Amyloidosis creates waxy lesions that accumulate in liver tissue. Less common than renal amyloidosis but equally serious.
Symptoms include blood in the abdomen and eventual liver failure.
Periodontal Disease develops without proper dental care. This breed shows higher susceptibility than some others.
Regular teeth brushing (twice weekly minimum) prevents gum disease.
Obesity risks increase without adequate exercise. Active breeds need activity to maintain healthy weight.
Urate Urolithiasis appears at higher rates in Ocicats compared to other breeds. Bladder stones require dietary management.
What Health Testing Should Ocicat Cats Have?
Genetic screening before breeding:
- PK deficiency DNA test
- PRA genetic test
- HCM screening (echocardiogram)
- Renal function panels
Annual veterinary exams starting at age 1. Senior cats (8+) benefit from twice-yearly checkups.
Heart screening with auscultation (listening for murmurs) annually. Echocardiograms every 2 to 3 years for breeding cats.
Blood work annually after age 7 to monitor kidney function and detect amyloidosis early.
Dental cleanings professionally done every 1 to 2 years depending on tartar buildup.
Breeders should provide health certificates showing parents tested negative for genetic conditions.
Caring for an Ocicat Cat
What Do Ocicat Cats Eat?
High-protein diets work best. Look for 35% to 45% protein content in food.
Real meat or fish should be the first ingredient. These athletic cats need quality protein for muscle maintenance.
Adult cats eat 1/3 to 1/2 cup of dry food daily, or equivalent wet food portions.
Kittens need feeding 3 to 4 times daily. Adults do fine with twice-daily meals.
Free-feeding works for some Ocicats, but timed meals prevent overeating. Monitor body condition closely.
Wet food provides hydration benefits. Mix wet and dry or alternate between them.
Avoid grain-heavy foods. Cats are obligate carnivores needing meat-based diets.
Treats should stay under 10% of daily calories. Use them for training rewards.
Weight management matters. Obesity leads to joint problems and exacerbates health conditions.
Fresh water must be available always. Some Ocicats prefer running water fountains.
How Do You Groom an Ocicat Cat?
Brush weekly with a rubber curry brush or soft-bristled brush. This removes dead hair and distributes skin oils.
Use a chamois cloth after brushing to add shine. The satiny coat responds well to polishing.
Bathing rarely becomes necessary. Show cats get bathed before competitions using color-enhancing shampoos:
- Bronze-tone for tawny, chocolate, cinnamon
- Pearl-tone for blue, lavender, fawn
- Whitening formula for silver varieties
Trim nails every 2 to 3 weeks. Provide scratching posts to maintain healthy claws between trimmings.
Brush teeth twice weekly minimum. Daily brushing prevents periodontal disease better.
Use cat-specific toothpaste. Human toothpaste is toxic to cats.
Clean ears weekly if they look dirty. Use cotton balls with vet-recommended ear cleaner.
Check for redness, bad smell, or excessive wax. These signal infections requiring vet attention.
Eye cleaning happens as needed. Wipe gently with damp cloth if discharge appears.
Professional grooming isn’t required for this low-maintenance breed.
How Much Exercise Does an Ocicat Cat Need?
60 to 90 minutes of active play daily. Break this into multiple sessions.
Interactive play works best. Feather wands, laser pointers, and puzzle toys engage their hunting instincts.
Fetch games satisfy their dog-like play style. Many Ocicats retrieve toys naturally.
Vertical space becomes critical. Install cat shelves, provide tall cat trees, and allow access to high furniture.
Climbing opportunities must exist. These athletic cats need to perch and survey from above.
Rotate toys weekly to maintain interest. Bored Ocicats become destructive.
Food puzzles add mental enrichment. Slow feeders and treat-dispensing toys challenge their intelligence.
Indoor play is sufficient if vigorous enough. Outdoor access isn’t necessary.
Some owners leash-train their Ocicats for supervised outdoor time. The breed adapts to harness walking.
Living with an Ocicat Cat
Are Ocicat Cats Good for Apartments?
Yes, with caveats.
Space requirements are moderate. A one-bedroom apartment works if you provide vertical space.
Noise level can be a concern. Vocal cats and active play create sound. Consider downstairs neighbors.
Their high energy needs lots of environmental enrichment in smaller spaces.
Indoor-only living suits them perfectly. They don’t need outdoor access to thrive.
Vertical territory matters more than square footage. Cat trees, wall shelves, and window perches expand usable space.
Window views provide entertainment. Position perches where cats can watch outside activity.
What Environment Do Ocicat Cats Need?
Temperature tolerance runs moderate. They handle typical home temperatures (65°F to 75°F) well.
Short coats make them somewhat cold-sensitive. Avoid drafts and provide warm sleeping spots in winter.
Heat tolerance is decent but not extreme. Keep them cool in summer with air conditioning.
Catios work great for safe outdoor access. Screened porches let them enjoy fresh air safely.
Some Ocicats walk on leashes. Start leash training young for best results.
Environmental enrichment includes:
- Multiple scratching surfaces (posts, cardboard, sisal)
- Hiding spots and tunnels
- Puzzle feeders
- Rotating toy selection
- Perches at various heights
- Safe plants for nibbling (cat grass)
Avoid toxic plants. Many common houseplants poison cats.
Are Ocicat Cats Good for First-Time Owners?
Intermediate difficulty level. Not ideal for first-time cat owners.
Time commitment runs 2 to 3 hours daily for interaction and play.
Their high energy and need for attention overwhelm unprepared owners.
Experience with active breeds helps. Understanding cat behavior prevents frustration.
Common challenges include:
- Separation anxiety if left alone too long
- Destructive behavior when bored
- Vocal demands for attention
- Need for consistent interactive play
- Training requirements
First-timers succeed if they:
- Work from home or have flexible schedules
- Can provide a companion pet
- Commit to daily play sessions
- Research breed needs thoroughly
Consider adopting two kittens together. They entertain each other during your absence.
Ocicat Kittens
What Are Ocicat Kittens Like?
Tiny bundles of energy. Kitten playfulness combines with breed athleticism for constant motion.
Socialization windows open between 2 to 7 weeks. Breeders should handle kittens extensively during this period.
Personality develops rapidly. Confident, outgoing traits appear early.
Early training works well. These intelligent kittens learn litter box use, scratching post habits, and basic commands quickly.
Critical socialization continues through 14 weeks. Exposure to various people, sounds, and experiences shapes adult temperament.
When Can Ocicat Kittens Leave Their Mother?
12 to 14 weeks minimum. Many breeders keep kittens until 16 weeks.
Developmental milestones by 12 weeks include:
- Full weaning
- Litter box mastery
- Basic socialization
- Initial vaccinations
Vaccination schedule before adoption:
- First FVRCP at 6 to 8 weeks
- Second FVRCP at 10 to 12 weeks
- Third FVRCP at 14 to 16 weeks
- Rabies vaccine at 12 to 16 weeks
Spay/neuter timing varies by breeder. Some alter kittens before placement (8 to 12 weeks), while others require it later (4 to 6 months).
Early placement disrupts social learning from mother and littermates.
Breeding and Genetics
Ocicat Breed Standards
CFA Standards require:
- Spotted coat pattern (thumbprint spots)
- Athletic, muscular build
- Modified wedge head
- Large, almond eyes (no blue)
- Well-defined muzzle
- Substantial bone structure
TICA Standards mirror CFA requirements with slight variations in emphasis.
Show quality versus pet quality distinctions focus on:
- Spot pattern clarity
- Color intensity and contrast
- Body proportions
- Eye shape and placement
- Overall type conformity
Disqualifying faults include:
- Blue eyes
- Kinked tail
- Incorrect number of toes
- White lockets or spots
- Weak chin
- Extremely cobby or oriental body type
Genetics of Ocicat Cats
The spotted pattern results from agouti gene interaction with tabby genes.
Ticked hairs create spots where color bands align. Ground color appears lighter due to tipped hairs.
Color genetics come from all three parent breeds:
- Chocolate and cinnamon from Abyssinian
- Point gene from Siamese (rarely expressed)
- Silver from American Shorthair
No outcrosses are currently allowed. The breed gene pool closed decades ago.
Genetic diversity concerns remain lower than some breeds due to three-breed foundation.
DNA testing recommendations:
- PK deficiency screening
- PRA gene identification
- Blood type testing (most are Type A)
Breeders share genetic test results to maintain healthy populations.
Inbreeding coefficients should stay below 5% for optimal genetic health.
History of the Ocicat Cat
Where Do Ocicat Cats Come From?
United States, specifically Michigan.
Virginia Daly accidentally created the breed in 1964.
This is a developed breed, not a natural one. No wild ancestry exists despite the wild appearance.
The breed was designed to combine Abyssinian and Siamese traits.
How Did the Ocicat Breed Develop?
1964: Virginia Daly bred a ruddy Abyssinian male (Dalai Deta Tim of Selene) to a seal point Siamese female (Dalai Tomboy Patter).
All resulting kittens looked phenotypically Abyssinian. Daly kept a female named Dalai She.
She bred Dalai She to a chocolate point Siamese (Whitehead Elegante Sun).
This litter produced Abyssinian-pointed Siamese as intended.
A second breeding produced the surprise: an ivory kitten with golden spots named Tonga.
Tonga was neutered and sold as a pet for $10. Virginia’s daughter had remarked he looked like an ocelot.
Dr. Clyde Keeler, a geneticist, contacted Daly after learning about Tonga. He wanted to recreate an extinct Egyptian Spotted Fishing Cat.
Daly repeated her breeding formula, producing Dalai Dotson, the first official Ocicat registered with CFA in 1966.
The Cat Fanciers Association made a recording error, listing American Shorthair as part of the breed mix. Breeders then intentionally added American Shorthair for:
- Larger bone structure
- Silver coloring
- More color variations
Other breeders followed Daly’s formula: Siamese to Abyssinian, offspring to Siamese.
The breed gained followers throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
When Was the Ocicat Recognized?
CFA recognition:
- 1966: Registration only
- 1986: Provisional status
- 1987: Championship status
TICA recognition:
- 1986: Championship status granted
GCCF recognition:
- 1997: Preliminary recognition
- 2002: Provisional status
- 2006: Championship status
The Ocicat reached the UK in 1988. Two cats (Catoninetail Mr Smith and Miss Jones) arrived from the US.
Four more imports followed in 1989. By 2015, 33 Ocicats total had been imported to the UK.
Cost of Owning an Ocicat Cat
How Much Does an Ocicat Cat Cost?
Pet quality: $800 to $1,500
Show quality: $1,500 to $2,500
Breeding rights: $2,000 to $3,000+
Price factors include:
- Lineage and pedigree (champion bloodlines cost more)
- Color (silver and rare colors fetch higher prices)
- Breeder reputation
- Geographic location
- Age (kittens cost more than adults)
- Registration papers (CFA, TICA)
- Health guarantees
- Gender (males sometimes cost less)
Initial costs beyond purchase price:
- Spay/neuter: $100 to $300 (if not already done)
- Initial vaccinations: $100 to $150
- Microchipping: $50
- Health screening: $75 to $150
- Cat carrier: $30 to $60
- Food and water bowls: $15 to $30
- Litter box and supplies: $40 to $70
- Cat tree: $100 to $300
- Initial toy collection: $30 to $50
- Scratching posts: $20 to $60
Total first-year cost: $1,500 to $3,000 including kitten purchase.
What Are the Ongoing Costs?
Annual veterinary care: $200 to $500
- Wellness exams: $50 to $100 per visit (twice yearly)
- Vaccinations/boosters: $50 to $100 annually
- Fecal exam: $25 to $50
- Blood work (senior cats): $100 to $200
Monthly food: $30 to $60
- High-quality dry food: $20 to $40
- Wet food supplements: $10 to $20
Monthly litter: $15 to $30
Pet insurance: $20 to $50 per month
- Covers accidents, illnesses, genetic conditions
- Reduces out-of-pocket costs for major issues
Dental cleanings: $200 to $500 annually
Grooming supplies: $50 to $100 per year
Toys and enrichment: $100 to $200 annually
Emergency fund recommendation: $1,000 to $3,000 saved
Total annual cost (after first year): $1,000 to $2,500
Where Can You Get an Ocicat Cat?
Reputable breeders offer the best option for purebred Ocicats.
What to look for:
- CFA or TICA registration
- Cattery of Excellence certification
- Health guarantees (1 to 3 years)
- Genetic testing documentation
- Clean, home-based breeding environment
- Kittens raised underfoot with family
- Multiple references available
- Spay/neuter requirements in contract
Red flags to avoid:
- Prices significantly below $600
- No health guarantees
- Won’t let you visit cattery
- Multiple litters available constantly
- Kittens available before 12 weeks
- No registration papers
- Refusal to show parent health testing
Questions to ask breeders:
- What health testing do you perform?
- Can I see the parents?
- What’s included in the health guarantee?
- What support do you provide after adoption?
- Do you require spay/neuter for pet-quality kittens?
- What’s your return policy?
Breed-specific rescues occasionally have Ocicats available.
Ocicat breed rescues remain rare due to the breed’s limited population.
Check general purebred cat rescues and contact them about Ocicat availability.
General shelters almost never have purebred Ocicats.
Spotted cats in shelters typically are mixed breeds or Egyptian Maus crosses.
Adoption costs: $50 to $200 from rescues/shelters
Adoption includes:
- Spay/neuter
- Current vaccinations
- Microchip
- Initial health check
Adult cats versus kittens:
Adults (1 to 7 years) cost less from breeders ($300 to $800 for retired breeding cats).
Adult temperaments are established. You know what you’re getting.
Kittens require more training and socialization effort.
Ocicat vs. Similar Breeds
Ocicat vs. Egyptian Mau
Physical differences:
Egyptian Maus have natural spots (not created through selective breeding). Their spots appear only on the coat tips, while skin underneath shows spots too.
Ocicats are larger (10 to 15 pounds vs. 7 to 11 pounds for Maus).
Maus have a dorsal stripe. Ocicats don’t.
Maus come in fewer colors (silver, bronze, smoke). Ocicats offer 12 color options.
Temperament differences:
Egyptian Maus are more reserved and bond with one person primarily.
Ocicats are outgoing with everyone, including strangers.
Maus are faster (fastest domestic cat breed). Ocicats are strong but not as quick.
Care requirements:
Both need similar grooming (weekly brushing).
Maus are slightly less demanding of attention.
Health concerns:
Maus have different genetic issues (asthma, heart disease).
Ocicats face amyloidosis and PK deficiency risks.
Lifespan: Similar (12 to 18 years)
Cost: Egyptian Maus cost $800 to $1,800, similar to Ocicats.
Ocicat vs. Bengal
Physical differences:
Bengals have rosettes (two-toned spots). Ocicats have solid thumbprint spots.
Bengals have wild ancestry (Asian Leopard Cat). Ocicats are fully domestic.
Bengals have glittery coats. Ocicats have satiny sheens.
Size is similar, though Bengals can be larger (8 to 18 pounds).
Temperament differences:
Bengals are more hyperactive and require even more exercise.
Ocicats are social but calmer.
Bengals show stronger hunting instincts.
Care requirements:
Bengals need more space and activity.
Both require significant interactive play.
Health concerns:
Bengals face different issues (HCM, PRA, FIP).
Both breeds need genetic health testing.
Lifespan: Bengals live 12 to 16 years; Ocicats 12 to 18 years.
Cost: Bengals cost $1,500 to $5,000+, significantly more than Ocicats.
Ocicat vs. Abyssinian
Physical differences:
Abyssinians lack spots. They have ticked coats with agouti hairs.
Abyssinians are smaller (6 to 10 pounds).
Body type differs. Abyssinians are more foreign/oriental in build.
Temperament differences:
Both are active and intelligent.
Abyssinians are slightly more independent.
Ocicats are more vocal and demanding.
Care requirements:
Similar grooming needs (weekly brushing).
Both need high activity levels.
Health concerns:
Abyssinians face PRA and renal amyloidosis (which they passed to Ocicats).
Both breeds need similar health testing.
Lifespan: Similar (12 to 15 years for Abyssinians)
Cost: Abyssinians cost $900 to $1,500, similar to Ocicats.
How to Choose Between Ocicat and Similar Breeds
Choose an Ocicat if you want:
- Spotted coat pattern
- Dog-like, extremely social personality
- A cat that greets guests warmly
- Moderate (not extreme) activity level
- Full domestic heritage with no wild genetics
Choose an Egyptian Mau if you want:
- Natural spotting (including spotted skin)
- Faster, more athletic cat
- A more reserved, one-person cat
- Ancient, natural breed history
Choose a Bengal if you want:
- Rosette patterns and glittery coats
- Maximum activity level
- Wild appearance and heritage
- Very strong hunting instincts
Choose an Abyssinian if you want:
- Ticked coat without spots
- Slightly smaller cat
- Less vocal companion
- Parent breed to the Ocicat
Fun Facts About Ocicat Cats
The name “Ocicat” combines “ocelot” and “cat.”
Tonga, the first Ocicat, was sold for just $10 and neutered before anyone realized his value.
An accidental recording error by CFA led to American Shorthair being added to the breed, creating larger cats with more colors.
Many Ocicats love water, unlike most cats. They dip paws in fountains, showers, and even aquariums.
The breed was featured at cat shows as early as the late 1960s.
Ocicats have been called “dogs in cat suits” due to their canine-like loyalty and trainability.
The Aztec was originally a separate breed (mackerel tabby Ocicats). As of 2024, it merged back as the “Ocicat Classic” variant.
Despite wild looks, zero wild DNA exists in Ocicats. They’re 100% domestic cats.
Some Ocicats have been trained to use human toilets.
The breed ranks #21 to #22 in cat breed popularity in the US.
Ocicats can learn to open doors and cabinets. Childproof locks become necessary.
They’re known for hoarding shiny objects in secret stashes.
The breed responds to commands like “sit,” “come,” and “stay” better than most cats.
A Swedish study found Ocicats have high rates of pyometra (uterine infection) compared to other breeds.
Ocicats have 16 times the risk of urate urolithiasis (bladder stones) compared to average cats.
Is an Ocicat Cat Right for You?
Best Homes for Ocicat Cats
Ideal owner personalities:
- Active people who enjoy interactive play
- Home-based workers or flexible schedules
- Social individuals who host guests regularly
- Patient trainers interested in teaching tricks
Lifestyle compatibility:
- Families with older children (6+)
- Multi-pet households
- People wanting a companion that follows them everywhere
- Those who don’t mind vocal cats
Home environment:
- Space for cat trees and vertical territory
- Safe windows for bird watching
- Ability to provide 2+ hours daily interaction
- Indoor-only setup
Time availability:
- Work-from-home arrangements work best
- Someone home most of the day
- Or ability to get a companion pet
Who Should Avoid Ocicat Cats?
Incompatible lifestyles:
- People away from home 8+ hours daily (unless they get two cats)
- Those wanting quiet, independent cats
- Individuals preferring low-maintenance pets
- People with limited space and no vertical territory options
Allergy considerations:
Ocicats are NOT hypoallergenic. They produce normal amounts of Fel d 1 protein.
Their short coat sheds moderately, spreading allergens throughout the home.
Challenge factors:
- High exercise demands
- Vocal communication needs
- Separation anxiety potential
- Training requirements
- Cost of ownership
- Need for environmental enrichment
Better breed alternatives:
British Shorthairs for calmer temperaments
Russian Blues for quieter cats
Ragdolls for low-energy lap cats
Maine Coons for gentle giants
Questions to Ask Before Getting an Ocicat Cat
Financial readiness:
Can you afford $800 to $2,500 upfront plus $1,000 to $2,500 annually?
Do you have $1,000+ emergency vet fund saved?
Can you handle unexpected health costs (amyloidosis treatments run thousands)?
Time commitment:
Can you dedicate 2 to 3 hours daily for play and interaction?
Are you home enough to prevent separation anxiety?
Will you commit to 15+ years of care?
Living situation:
Does your lease allow cats?
Is your home stable for 15+ years?
Can you provide vertical space (cat trees, shelves)?
Do you have secure windows and no escape routes?
Family agreement:
Does everyone in the household want a high-energy cat?
Are children old enough to handle an active cat gently?
Will someone be responsible for daily play sessions?
Long-term planning:
What happens to the cat if you move?
Who cares for your Ocicat during vacations?
Can you afford potential medical treatments?
Are you prepared for a vocal, attention-demanding companion?
Travel considerations:
How often do you travel?
Can you afford pet-sitting or boarding ($25 to $60 per day)?
Will your Ocicat tolerate your absence?
Other pet considerations:
Do current pets accept new animals?
Can you manage multi-pet dynamics?
Is your home large enough for multiple active pets?
If you answered yes to most questions and can meet the breed’s needs, an Ocicat might be perfect for you.
These spotted beauties bring wild looks and devoted companionship. Just be ready for a cat that acts more like a dog and demands to be part of everything you do.
FAQ on Ocicat
Are Ocicat cats rare?
Yes, Ocicats are relatively rare compared to popular breeds. Few breeders specialize in this spotted cat breed, making kittens harder to find.
Their limited availability drives up prices and creates waiting lists with reputable breeders.
Do Ocicat cats have wild blood?
No. Despite their wild appearance resembling ocelots, Ocicats are 100% domestic cats.
The breed developed from Abyssinian, Siamese, and American Shorthair genetics without any wild cat ancestry.
How much do Ocicat kittens cost?
Pet-quality Ocicat kittens cost $800 to $1,500. Show-quality cats range from $1,500 to $2,500.
Breeding rights can push prices to $3,000 or more depending on bloodlines and color.
Are Ocicats good with dogs?
Yes. Their dog-like personality helps them bond well with canines.
Early socialization produces the best results, especially when introduced as kittens to calm, cat-friendly dogs.
Do Ocicat cats shed a lot?
Moderate shedding occurs. Their short, sleek coat requires weekly brushing to remove dead hair.
They’re not hypoallergenic and produce normal amounts of allergen proteins like other cats.
Can Ocicats be left alone?
Not for long periods. These social cats need 2 to 3 hours of daily interaction.
Separation anxiety develops when left alone over 4 hours regularly. Consider getting two cats if you work full-time.
Are Ocicats vocal cats?
Moderately vocal. They communicate with chirps and melodic sounds but aren’t as loud as Siamese.
These chatty cats “talk back” when spoken to and use their voice to express needs clearly.
What health problems do Ocicats have?
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, renal amyloidosis, and progressive retinal atrophy appear most commonly. Pyruvate kinase deficiency and periodontal disease also affect some lines.
Reputable breeders test for genetic conditions before breeding.
How long do Ocicat cats live?
12 to 18 years on average. Many reach 15 years with proper veterinary care and nutrition.
Their genetic diversity from three parent breeds contributes to hybrid vigor and longevity.
Are Ocicats good for apartments?
Yes, if you provide vertical space. Cat trees, wall shelves, and window perches expand their territory.
Their moderate noise level and high energy require consideration for downstairs neighbors.
Conclusion
Ocicat cats deliver exotic wild looks wrapped in a fully domestic temperament. Their spotted coat and muscular build turn heads, but their dog-like loyalty steals hearts.
These energetic felines demand significant time and attention. Plan for 60 to 90 minutes of daily interactive play and consistent companionship.
Health considerations include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and renal amyloidosis. Regular veterinary screenings catch issues early.
Budget $800 to $2,500 upfront plus $1,000 to $2,500 annually for food, veterinary care, and supplies.
This social breed thrives in active households with children, other pets, and people home frequently. Their vocal nature and playful personality suit owners wanting constant feline interaction.
If you can meet their exercise needs and provide daily engagement, an Ocicat brings 12 to 18 years of devoted companionship.
