## Quick Facts

- Naturally curly coat that can range from soft waves to tight ringlets, often compared to a sheep or a little poodle.
- Extremely people focused cats that love to “help” with every daily task and often follow their humans from room to room.
- Born in all sorts of coat stages, from nearly bald to straight coated, with curls usually developing as they grow.
- Generally healthy and robust, with a reputation for longevity and staying playful well into their senior years.
- A gentle, adaptable breed that fits surprisingly well into many types of homes, from busy families to calm single person households.

## Appearance & Coat

The LaPerm is a medium sized cat with a balanced, athletic build that feels more substantial in your arms than it might look at first glance. They are neither heavy nor delicate, but rather somewhere in between, with a body that reflects their working farm cat origins. Males are usually a bit larger and more muscular than females, yet both sexes share the same overall proportions. A LaPerm should feel firm and toned when you pick them up, with a graceful, slightly foreign look, rather than cobby or stocky.

One of the most striking features of the LaPerm is the head shape. The head is a modified wedge with gentle contours, meaning it is neither sharply angular nor overly round. Their ears are medium to large and can have lovely lynx tips or furnishings that add to their expressive appearance. The eyes are medium to large, almond shaped, and can come in many colors, often creating a beautiful contrast with the coat. There is a sweet and curious expression that many people immediately fall in love with.

Of course, the real star is the coat. LaPerms come in two coat lengths, shorthair and longhair, and both have their own special charm. The shorthair LaPerm has a coat that lies closer to the body but still shows obvious waves and curls, especially around the neck, tail, and underbelly. The longhair LaPerm often develops a more dramatic look, with a full plumed tail, a ruff around the neck, and looser, airy curls that can look almost like a perm. The texture is light, springy, and surprisingly soft to the touch, rather than coarse or woolly.

LaPerms can come in almost any color and pattern. Solid colors, tortoiseshells, tabbies, colorpoints, smokes, and silvers are all possible. This variety means there is a LaPerm for almost every taste, from subtle and natural looking to bold and striking. The curls can sometimes make patterns look more blended or shaded, which gives the coat extra depth and character.

Coat care for a LaPerm might sound intimidating at first, but it is usually fairly easy compared with many longhaired breeds. The curls do not typically mat as heavily as dense double coats, although some individual cats will need more care than others. Many LaPerms benefit from a gentle combing once or twice a week. A wide toothed comb or soft brush works best, as very fine combs can break up the curls or pull uncomfortably at the coat. It is usually better to work with the curl direction, not against it.

Some owners find that too much brushing can actually make the coat frizz, so it pays to experiment a little and see what keeps your own cat looking their best. If your LaPerm enjoys baths, an occasional mild bath followed by air drying can refresh the curls. Avoid heavy conditioners or grooming products that weigh the coat down. Keeping nails trimmed, checking ears for wax, and wiping the eyes if needed will complete a simple but effective grooming routine that keeps a LaPerm looking tidy and feeling comfortable.

## Temperament & Personality

Living with a LaPerm is a bit like living with a soft, curly shadow that has strong opinions and a sense of humor. These cats are famously people oriented and tend to form close bonds with their families. They often select a favorite person, yet they usually enjoy the company of everyone in the household. Many LaPerms greet their humans at the door, jump onto an empty lap at the first opportunity, and curl up next to you at night. If you are looking for a distant or aloof cat, this is probably not the breed for you.

In daily life, LaPerms are curious, observant, and gently playful. Instead of charging around the house nonstop, they are more likely to take a measured approach, investigating new objects, watching the world from high perches, and joining in when something piques their interest. They usually appreciate interactive play, such as wand toys or puzzle feeders, but they can also entertain themselves with simple objects, like crumpled paper or a cardboard box. They enjoy being part of whatever is happening and can be quite chatty, though their voices are often soft and pleasant rather than loud or demanding.

With families, the LaPerm tends to be affectionate and tolerant, provided that children are taught to handle them respectfully. Many LaPerms like to sit with children while they read or play, and some will happily join in gentle games like chasing a feather toy across the floor. Because they are sociable and adaptable, they often do well in busy households where there is always something going on, as long as they also have a quiet place to retreat when they need a break.

When it comes to other pets, LaPerms are usually sociable and can get along well with other cats and cat friendly dogs. Their friendly nature makes them good candidates for multi pet homes, especially if introductions are done slowly and thoughtfully. They are unlikely to dominate in a rough way, but they can hold their own and may even become the peacekeeper in the group.

There are a few challenges to be aware of with this breed. Their strong need for companionship means they can become lonely or bored if left alone for long stretches every day. Some LaPerms will respond by becoming clingier, while others may get into mischief as a way to entertain themselves. Mental stimulation and a regular routine of play and interaction are very important. In addition, their curiosity can lead them into trouble if your home is not reasonably cat proofed. They may investigate cupboards, counter tops, and open windows with great enthusiasm.

LaPerms are generally not aggressive cats, but like any breed they have their individual personalities. Some will be more outgoing and bold, while others are more reserved and take time to warm up to strangers. Early, gentle socialisation and consistent positive experiences help bring out the best in their nature. Overall, the LaPerm is known as a loving, adaptable companion that thrives on human contact and fits well into many different types of households.

## Training & Exercise

The LaPerm may not be a working breed in the traditional sense, but these cats are clever and surprisingly responsive to training. They tend to be motivated by both affection and food, which makes them quite open to learning basic cues and even some fun tricks. Training is not just a novelty for them. It is a useful way to channel their curiosity, build your bond, and prevent boredom.

In terms of activity level, LaPerms are usually moderately active. They are neither hyperactive acrobats nor couch potatoes. Instead, they enjoy short bursts of energetic play followed by long, relaxed stretches of napping near their people. To keep a LaPerm happy, plan on several short play sessions throughout the day rather than expecting them to entertain themselves all the time. Ten to fifteen minutes with a feather wand, a laser pointer used thoughtfully, or a fast moving toy mouse is often enough to satisfy their hunting instincts.

Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise for this breed. LaPerms often enjoy:

- Food puzzle toys that encourage them to work out how to access their treats
- Interactive feeders or slow feeding games that turn mealtimes into mini hunting sessions
- Simple nose work games, such as hiding treats around a room for them to search out

Training LaPerms usually works best with positive reinforcement. You can use small treats, a favorite toy, or gentle praise when they do something you like. Many owners teach their LaPerms to come when called, sit on cue, or jump onto a particular perch. Clicker training can be particularly successful, as these cats tend to enjoy figuring out what behavior earns them a reward.

Some LaPerms adapt very well to harness and leash training, especially if you start when they are young. This can be a safe way to let them explore the outdoors, smell new scents, and burn a little extra energy. Begin by letting them wear the harness indoors for short periods, rewarding them with treats and affection, then gradually introduce walking on a lead in a secure garden or quiet area.

At the same time, it is important to respect each cat’s individual temperament. While many LaPerms are adventurous, some may be more cautious and prefer indoor enrichment only. Provide a variety of scratching posts, climbing trees, and high shelves or perches so they can express natural behaviours like climbing, stretching, and observing from above. Vertical territory can make a big difference to their overall contentment.

A possible challenge is that a bored LaPerm might decide to create their own entertainment, which can involve knocking items off shelves, exploring off limit areas, or persistently asking for attention just when you are busiest. Regular, planned play sessions, a rotation of toys, and opportunities for interactive training help reduce this kind of mischief. With the right balance of exercise and mental stimulation, a LaPerm is usually a calm, easy housemate the rest of the time, content to curl up beside you and purr.

## Health

The LaPerm is generally considered a healthy and robust breed with a good life expectancy. Many LaPerms live well into their mid to late teens, and some reach 18 years or more with good care. Because the breed arose from a natural mutation and has often been outcrossed carefully to maintain genetic diversity, it has not accumulated a long list of breed specific diseases. Even so, responsible owners and breeders must still pay attention to health screening, good nutrition, and regular vet care.

Currently, there are no widely recognised serious genetic conditions that affect LaPerms uniquely in the way that certain diseases affect some other breeds. However, this does not mean they are completely free of health concerns. Like all cats, LaPerms can be prone to common feline issues such as:

- Periodontal disease and dental tartar
- Obesity if overfed or under exercised
- Kidney and urinary problems as they age
- Heart disease that can appear sporadically in any cat population

Regular veterinary checkups, ideally at least once a year for younger adults and more frequently for seniors, are essential. These visits allow early detection of any developing problems, from heart murmurs to dental issues. Good breeders will often have their breeding cats screened for general heart health and may perform additional checks as recommended in their region. While there is no specific genetic test that every LaPerm breeder must run, they should keep detailed records, monitor lines for emerging issues, and avoid breeding from cats with serious hereditary problems.

As with all purebred and pedigree type cats, responsible breeding practices matter. Prospective kitten buyers should feel comfortable asking a breeder about the overall health of their lines, any common issues they have seen, and how they select breeding cats. A conscientious LaPerm breeder will be open about both strengths and challenges and will not claim that their cats are “guaranteed” free from all disease.

LaPerms do not have a special diet requirement different from other cats, but good quality food appropriate for their age and activity level is very important. Maintaining a healthy body weight reduces the risk of diabetes, joint strain, and other obesity related problems. Monitor their body condition regularly. You should be able to feel ribs under a light layer of fat without pressing hard, and there should be a visible waist when viewed from above.

Because many LaPerms are affectionate and food motivated, it is easy to overdo treats. Try reserving part of their daily food allowance to use as training rewards, or choose low calorie treats so you can maintain a good balance. Fresh water should always be available. Some LaPerms drink more readily from a fountain, which helps support urinary and kidney health.

Routine health maintenance, such as vaccinations, parasite control, and spaying or neutering (unless the cat is part of a carefully managed breeding program), are just as important for LaPerms as for any cat. Indoor only LaPerms may have fewer risks from accidents and infections, but they still benefit from preventive healthcare and regular monitoring. Overall, with thoughtful care, a LaPerm can be a long lived, healthy companion that brings joy to your home for many years.

## History & Origins

The LaPerm has one of those delightful origin stories that sound almost like a fairy tale. The breed began in the early 1980s on a farm in the United States, when a brown tabby barn cat gave birth to a litter of kittens. Among them was a tiny, almost bald kitten with large ears and a long, thin body. As this unusual kitten grew, a soft, curly coat started to appear, completely different from the straight fur of its mother and littermates. The farmer noticed the kitten’s striking appearance and gentle nature and decided to keep and breed from it.

Over time, more curly coated kittens appeared on the farm, showing that the trait was hereditary. These cats were not pampered house pets at first. They were working farm cats, valued for their hunting ability and their affectionate temperaments. Visitors to the farm began to notice the unusual curly cats and show interest in them. Local breeders and cat fanciers recognised that this was a natural mutation worth preserving and developing as a separate breed.

The name “LaPerm” was chosen as a playful reference to their curled coats, which often look like a permanent wave hairstyle. From these humble beginnings, a structured breeding program was established. To create a healthy and diverse gene pool, breeders used carefully selected outcrosses to domestic cats and sometimes to other pedigreed breeds in the early days. The goal was to maintain the unique coat and personality while building a stable, genetically sound population.

Over the following years, cat registries in North America and internationally began to recognise the LaPerm. The breed gradually made its way to Europe and other parts of the world. Today, LaPerms are recognised in various cat fancy organisations and compete successfully in shows, where judges appreciate their distinctive look and sweet nature. Both shorthair and longhair varieties are accepted in many registries.

Although the LaPerm started as a working barn cat, its role today is almost entirely that of a companion and show cat. They are not bred for a specific job like some working breeds, yet they often retain strong hunting instincts and enjoy chasing toys or the occasional household insect. Their adaptable temperament has made them popular with people looking for a cat that is different in appearance, yet easy to live with.

Despite their relatively recent development compared with some ancient breeds, LaPerms have quickly earned a loyal following. Breeders worldwide work to maintain the integrity of the original type. This means preserving the hallmark curls, the gentle and people oriented nature, and the overall health of the breed. As awareness grows, more cat lovers are discovering that behind the unusual coat is a warm and engaging companion with a surprisingly practical, rustic background.

## Living with the Breed

Sharing your home with a LaPerm is usually a very rewarding experience, but it does come with certain responsibilities and considerations. These cats thrive on companionship and involvement. They are not the sort of pet that will be content to spend all day ignored in a corner. If you enjoy talking to your cat, having a furry helper while you work at your desk, and a constant presence on the sofa or bed, the LaPerm is likely to fit you well.

New owners should be prepared for a cat that is sometimes described as “velcro like.” Many LaPerms prefer to be near their humans at almost all times. They may follow you from room to room, supervise bathroom visits, and tap your hand if you stop petting too soon. For people who work long hours away from home, this can be a challenge. In such situations, consider adopting a pair of LaPerms or providing another friendly cat companion so they do not feel lonely. At the same time, it is important to establish gentle boundaries, such as teaching them not to walk directly across your keyboard or grab your fork at dinner.

Financially, owning a LaPerm is similar to owning any other purebred cat. Initial costs include the purchase price of the kitten, which reflects the breeder’s care, health tests, and time. On top of that, you will need to budget for:

- Vaccinations and early vet visits
- Spay or neuter surgery if not already done
- Quality food and litter
- Basic grooming tools, toys, and scratching posts

Ongoing annual costs will depend greatly on your location and lifestyle choices, but you can expect regular veterinary checkups, booster vaccinations as recommended, parasite prevention, food, litter, and replacement of worn out toys or equipment. It is wise to set aside a budget for unexpected veterinary bills or consider pet insurance, since emergency care can be expensive.

In terms of equipment, LaPerms appreciate a stimulating environment. A good tall cat tree, a selection of scratching posts in different textures, and comfortable beds in both quiet and social areas are excellent investments. Window perches are often very popular, as these cats enjoy watching the outdoors. Because they are so interactive, a variety of toys is helpful. Rotating toys every few days can keep them fresh and interesting without the need to constantly buy new ones.

Grooming needs are moderate but regular. Longhaired LaPerms may need more frequent combing than shorthairs, yet most do not require intensive daily grooming like some heavily coated breeds. A weekly session of combing, nail trimming, and general inspection of their coat, ears, and teeth often works well. Many LaPerms come to enjoy this as special one on one time with their person, especially if you keep the experience calm and rewarding.

One aspect of living with a LaPerm that many owners mention is the emotional connection. These cats often seem very attuned to their humans’ moods. They may snuggle close when you are unwell, sit quietly beside you when you are busy, and spring into playful action when you invite them. This sensitivity is part of what makes them so cherished, but it also means they can be affected by stress and changes in the household. Try to maintain a steady routine and introduce new pets, people, or major changes gradually.

If you are prepared to give time, attention, and mental stimulation, the LaPerm will repay you with loyalty, affection, and many years of companionship. They suit a wide range of homes, from apartments with active owners who prioritise play and interaction, to larger houses with families and other pets. As long as their social and emotional needs are met, LaPerms adapt well and bring a special warmth, wrapped in curls, to daily life.

LaPerm

GCCF - Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (UK)

FIFe - Fédération Internationale Féline

TICA - The International Cat Association

The LaPerm is a medium, athletic cat with a distinctive curly coat ranging from soft waves to tight ringlets. Affectionate and people focused, it follows owners around, enjoys play and training, and suits many homes. Generally healthy and long lived, grooming is moderate and mainly involves gentle combing.

## Quick Facts

- Striking contrast of bright white paws and inverted white facial “V” on a short, sleek coat
- Affectionate, people focused cats that often follow their humans from room to room
- Highly intelligent and talkative, with softer voices than many other vocal breeds
- Athletic jumpers that enjoy climbing, puzzle toys, and interactive play sessions
- Rare and still developing as a breed, so responsible, health focused breeders are especially important

## Appearance & Coat

The Snowshoe is a medium sized cat with a balanced, athletic build. At first glance many people see a resemblance to the Siamese, but the Snowshoe has a more moderate look. The head is usually a broad, slightly rounded wedge with gentle contours rather than sharp angles. The ears are medium to large, set to continue the wedge shape, and often have slightly rounded tips that soften the expression. Their large, clear blue eyes are one of their most captivating features. The eye shape is typically oval to walnut shaped, giving a thoughtful, open expression that many owners describe as almost human.

The body of the Snowshoe is muscular without being bulky. Think of a small gymnast rather than a bodybuilder. Adults generally feel surprisingly solid when lifted. The chest is well developed, and the legs are medium in length, with the hind legs often just a touch longer than the front. This natural structure helps them jump and climb with ease. Their paws are oval and compact, with the famous “snowshoes” of white that give the breed its name. The tail is medium in length, tapering slightly and in good proportion to the body.

The coat of the Snowshoe is short, smooth and close lying, with a texture many people describe as satiny. It is single to semi double in some lines, but even where there is a bit more undercoat it still feels sleek rather than fluffy. The breed is pointed in pattern, similar to Siamese, which means the ears, tail, face mask and legs have darker color compared to the body. Accepted colors commonly include seal, blue, chocolate and lilac points, often in patterns such as bicolor or mitted. The ideal Snowshoe has:

- White paws on all four feet
- Some degree of white on the tummy and chest
- A white inverted “V” marking on the face

Because these markings are controlled by complex genetics, no two Snowshoes ever look exactly alike. Even within a single litter you may see kittens with very different white patterns.

In terms of coat care, Snowshoes are refreshingly low maintenance. Their short coat does not mat easily and usually only needs a quick weekly comb or brushing to remove loose hair and skin oils. A rubber grooming mitt or a fine stainless steel comb works well. Many Snowshoes enjoy the extra attention and will lean into the grooming session. During seasonal shedding periods, a bit more frequent combing helps keep fur off your furniture and supports healthy skin. Regular nail trimming, ear checks, and gentle tooth brushing round out the basic grooming routine. Because the coat is not long or heavy, Snowshoes tend to manage heat fairly well, but they should always have cool resting spots in very warm climates and cozy places to snuggle in cooler homes. Their coat is not hypoallergenic, so people with strong cat allergies may still react to a Snowshoe just as they would to other shorthair breeds.

## Temperament & Personality

Living with a Snowshoe feels a lot like living with a bright, attentive companion who always wants to be part of whatever is happening. This is a very people oriented breed that thrives on interaction. Many Snowshoe cats choose a favorite person but still show affection to everyone in the family. They are known to follow their humans from room to room, sit on laptops, and supervise household tasks with great interest. If you like a cat that is present but not overwhelming, a well socialized Snowshoe can be a perfect match.

Their Siamese ancestry shows in their intelligence and communication skills, but Snowshoes often have slightly softer voices and a calmer overall demeanor. They will “talk” to you about their day, ask for attention, or remind you that it is dinner time, but the sounds tend to be chirps, trills, and gentle meows rather than constant loud yowling. Many owners find this combination of vocal nature and moderate volume very appealing.

Snowshoes are generally affectionate and enjoy physical closeness. They often like laps, shoulder rides, or sleeping pressed against their person at night. Some will even greet family members at the door and may show clear signs of missing their humans if left alone too long. If you are away from home all day, a second friendly cat or a cat friendly dog can provide valuable company, as long as introductions are done slowly and thoughtfully.

With children, Snowshoes tend to be playful and tolerant, provided the kids are taught to handle them gently and respectfully. Their social nature means they often enjoy games such as fetch, wand toy chases, or simply “helping” with homework. Because they are sensitive and bonded to their people, they may not react well to rough handling or shouting. Families who encourage quiet, kind interaction usually find the Snowshoe becomes a true companion for older children.

With other pets, Snowshoes normally do quite well. Their inquisitive, confident personality means they are often open to making friends with other cats and with dogs that understand feline boundaries. Early socialization and slow introductions are key. A resident Snowshoe may initially protest an intruder, but many adjust and later enjoy wrestling, chasing, or cuddling with their new companion.

Common temperament challenges include:

- Attention seeking behavior if they feel ignored, which can show up as vocalizing, knocking things off tables, or climbing where they should not
- Potential for separation stress in very people focused individuals
- Boredom related mischief if they lack mental stimulation

These challenges are rarely severe when owners meet the breed’s need for play, interaction, and variety. For people who want an independent, aloof cat, a Snowshoe may not be the right choice. For those who enjoy an affectionate, smart cat that truly becomes part of the family, this breed can be deeply rewarding.

## Training & Exercise

Snowshoe cats are bright, curious and often surprisingly easy to train compared to many other breeds. Their intelligence and social nature make them highly responsive to positive reinforcement. They quickly learn household routines and are usually very reliable with litter box habits, as long as their environment is clean and stable.

Because they are more dog like in some of their behavior, Snowshoes frequently enjoy learning tricks and commands. Clicker training works extremely well for this breed. Using a small clicker and tiny food rewards, you can teach:

- Sit, high five, or spin
- Come when called
- Go to a mat or perch on cue
- Fetch small toys or balls

Start with very short, fun sessions of just a few minutes and keep the mood light. Snowshoes respond best to praise, treats, and play, not to scolding. Their sensitive nature means harsh corrections can make them anxious or less willing to engage. If you find your cat walking away or losing interest, that is usually a sign that the session went on too long or the reward was not exciting enough.

Exercise needs for the Snowshoe are moderate to high. They are not hyperactive, but they do have plenty of energy and athletic ability. In daily life they enjoy opportunities to run, jump, chase, and climb. A typical Snowshoe will often:

- Race up a cat tree to survey the room
- Dash after a feather wand toy
- Chase a ball down the hallway and carry it back
- Explore high shelves or window perches

Interactive play with their human is especially valuable for this breed. Two or three sessions of 10 to 15 minutes each day can make a big difference in their physical and mental wellbeing. Wand toys, fishing pole toys, and laser pointers (used carefully and followed by a real toy they can “catch”) are all popular choices. Puzzle feeders and treat dispensing toys are also excellent for Snowshoes, because they combine problem solving with the reward of food.

Many Snowshoe cats are also good candidates for harness and leash training. Introduced slowly and positively, a harness can allow safe outdoor walks in quiet areas or time on a secure balcony. Always ensure that harnesses fit well and that outdoor time is fully supervised, because this curious breed may try to investigate risky places or chase birds and insects.

Without enough exercise and stimulation, Snowshoes can become bored and may look for their own entertainment, which might include climbing curtains, chewing on inappropriate items, or waking their humans too early in the morning. Regular play, variety in toys, and the presence of climbing structures or shelves help channel their energy in healthy ways. When their minds and bodies are kept engaged, Snowshoes are content, relaxed companions who happily settle down for long cuddle sessions after playtime.

## Health

The Snowshoe is generally considered a healthy and robust breed, but like all purebred cats, they can be predisposed to certain conditions. Because the breed developed from Siamese and American Shorthair lines, some of the health concerns overlap with those breeds. Responsible breeders work hard to reduce the risk of hereditary problems through health testing and careful selection of breeding cats.

Potential health issues to be aware of include:

- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, often shortened to HCM. This is a form of heart disease that can affect many cat breeds. In HCM, the heart muscle thickens, which can eventually lead to heart failure or blood clots. Many conscientious breeders have their breeding cats screened by a veterinary cardiologist using ultrasound.
- Dental disease. Like many cats, Snowshoes can develop tartar, gingivitis, and periodontal disease if their teeth are not monitored. Regular dental checks with your vet and at home tooth brushing can greatly reduce risk.
- Obesity. Snowshoes love food and can be persuasive beggars. Because they are naturally muscular and strong, extra weight can sometimes creep on without being obvious at first. Obesity increases the risk of diabetes, joint problems, and other health issues.
- Respiratory or eye issues are not typically severe in Snowshoes, because their head shape is moderate, not extreme. However, as with many blue eyed pointed breeds, some individuals may have slightly more sensitivity to bright light and should always have access to shaded resting spots.

Recommended health protocols for Snowshoes from responsible breeders usually include:

- HCM screening of breeding adults at intervals suggested by a specialist
- Regular veterinary health checks for kittens and adults
- Core vaccinations and parasite prevention based on local veterinary advice
- Early spay or neuter of pet kittens, unless there is a specific agreement with the breeder for breeding or showing

The typical lifespan of a well cared for Snowshoe is often in the 14 to 18 year range, with some individuals living longer. Long life is helped by a combination of good genetics, high quality nutrition, weight control, and prompt veterinary care when any issue appears. Signs that should trigger a vet visit include changes in appetite, drinking much more or less than usual, coughing, difficulty breathing, sudden loss of energy, or changes in behavior such as hiding more than usual.

From a daily care perspective, Snowshoes benefit from:

- A balanced, high quality diet appropriate for their age and activity level
- Portion control and regular weight checks, ideally using a digital scale at home
- Occasional home health checks, such as gently feeling along their body for lumps, checking eyes and ears, and monitoring breath odor

Pet insurance or a dedicated savings fund is worth considering for this breed just as it is for any companion animal. Because many health problems can appear suddenly, having financial support ready helps owners make the best decisions for their Snowshoe’s care. Overall, with thoughtful breeding and consistent care, Snowshoes are sturdy, long lived cats that reward their families with many healthy, affectionate years.

## History & Origins

The Snowshoe breed has a relatively recent and quite charming history. It began in the United States during the 1960s, when a Siamese breeder named Dorothy Hinds Daugherty noticed that some of her Siamese kittens were born with white feet and unusual white facial markings. At the time, such markings were not desirable for traditional Siamese breeding, but Dorothy was intrigued by their striking appearance. Rather than dismiss these kittens, she saw potential for a new type of cat that combined the elegance of the Siamese with a unique pattern.

To stabilize the look, early breeders crossed these white footed Siamese with bicolored American Shorthairs. The goal was to create a cat with the colorpoint features and blue eyes of the Siamese, softened by a sturdier body type and the distinct patchwork of white on the paws, chest, and face. The name “Snowshoe” came quite naturally from their white paws, which looked as if the cats were wearing little snow boots.

Developing the Snowshoe was not easy. The white pattern is influenced by complex and somewhat unpredictable genetics, which means producing kittens with ideal markings can be challenging. Even today, litters may include kittens whose white markings do not fully match show standards, although they still make wonderful pets. Early breeders also faced limited numbers and a lack of recognition from major cat associations, which slowed progress.

Over time, however, dedicated enthusiasts continued the work, carefully breeding for both appearance and temperament. Various registries gradually granted recognition. Today Snowshoes are accepted by several major cat associations and can compete in championship classes in some organizations. Despite this, the breed remains relatively rare compared to more established breeds, which is one reason that finding a reputable breeder may require patience and travel.

Modern Snowshoes are primarily kept as indoor family companions and show cats. Their intelligence and social nature make them a joy in the home, and their striking looks attract attention at shows. While they are not commonly used for specific working roles, some Snowshoes have become therapy cats or social media personalities due to their expressive faces and affectionate behavior. The breed continues to evolve as breeders refine type and work to protect overall health.

In many ways, the history of the Snowshoe reflects the power of observation and appreciation for natural variation. What began as “unusual” markings in a Siamese litter became the foundation for a distinct and beloved breed. Today, choosing a Snowshoe connects you with that relatively young but fascinating history and with a community of breeders and owners who are passionate about these charming, white footed cats.

## Living with the Breed

Sharing your home with a Snowshoe means welcoming a close companion rather than a distant, decorative pet. These cats like to be where the action is. They will watch television with you, investigate your grocery bags, and try to sit between you and your laptop. If you enjoy constant feline company and conversation, you will likely find living with a Snowshoe very rewarding.

New owners should be ready to invest in time and interaction as well as money. This is not a cat that will be content to be ignored for most of the day. Daily play sessions, gentle training, and simple companionship, such as talking to your cat while you cook or work, all help keep a Snowshoe happy. If your lifestyle involves long absences, consider:

- Adopting a second compatible cat
- Hiring a pet sitter for mid day visits
- Setting up a rich environment with climbing trees, shelves, toys, and views

On a practical level, the financial commitment for a Snowshoe includes the usual costs of any purebred cat. Purchase price from a responsible breeder is often higher than for more common breeds, reflecting the rarity of the Snowshoe and the investment in health testing and careful breeding. After adoption, annual costs typically include:

- High quality food, both wet and possibly dry
- Routine veterinary care, vaccinations, and parasite prevention
- Occasional dental work if needed
- Pet insurance or savings for emergencies
- Replacement toys, scratching posts, and bedding

Exact amounts vary by country, but planning for the equivalent of several hundred in your local currency per year, not including emergencies, is wise.

Useful equipment for living comfortably with a Snowshoe includes:

- One or more tall, stable cat trees to satisfy their love of climbing
- Solid scratching posts or boards made of sisal, cardboard, or wood
- A variety of interactive toys, such as feather wands, balls, and puzzle feeders
- A wide, comfortable bed or several cozy resting spots
- At least one litter box per cat, plus one extra, in quiet but accessible locations
- A sturdy carrier, as Snowshoes will need safe transport to and from the veterinarian or cattery

Because they are intelligent and can be quite agile, basic home safety is also important. Secure windows and balconies, keep toxic plants and chemicals out of reach, and be mindful of open washing machines or dryers. Snowshoes tend to be curious and may investigate small spaces or newly opened cupboards.

From a household harmony perspective, Snowshoes usually adapt well to most environments as long as they are given affection and engagement. In quiet homes, they provide lively company. In busier family homes, they often join in the activity and form close bonds with multiple people. They do well as indoor only cats, which also helps protect them from traffic, predators, and infectious diseases. Providing window perches or a secure outdoor enclosure can give them safe access to fresh air and interesting sights.

Over the years, many Snowshoe owners describe their relationship with these cats as deep and almost dog like in the level of connection. Their expressive faces, interest in human activities, and willingness to learn can create a very special bond. For people who are willing to meet their social and mental needs, the Snowshoe offers not just a beautiful cat with white paws, but a devoted friend who will be at your side through everyday life.

Snowshoe

Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF)

Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe)

The International Cat Association (TICA)

The Snowshoe is a rare, medium-sized, blue-eyed cat with a sleek pointed coat, white paws, and an inverted white facial “V.” Athletic, intelligent, and vocal yet soft-spoken, it thrives on human interaction, enjoys training and active play, and is generally healthy with good care.

LaPerm vs Snowshoe

Characteristics

Summary

Similar breeds