A balanced, medium-sized cat with the lean, firm muscles of a runner and a rectangular body. It is a pointed cat with white 'snowshoe' feet and often a white inverted V on the face. The short, glossy coat lies close and has no undercoat. Kittens are born all white, and the points colour in gradually, taking up to two years to finish.123
Coloursseal pointblue pointchocolate pointlilac pointother Siamese colours including red, cream, cinnamon, fawn, tabby and tortie pointswhite feet and facial markingsdeep blue eyes123
Personality what they are like
Sweet-natured and steady, often forming a special bond with one person while staying friendly with the whole family, including children, dogs and other cats. Snowshoes like to talk in a soft, pleasant voice. Each one has its own personality, from shy to bold.123
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. Energetic and clever; enjoys chasing toys, learning tricks such as opening doors or walking on a leash, and splashing in shallow water.13
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Low. A weekly brush removes dead hair, plus regular nail trims and tooth brushing.12
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A good-quality complete cat food with suitable protein, and fresh water every day.1
Company who they like around
Thrives on company and interaction; accepts other cats, dogs and children.12
The story where it all began
In the early 1960s, Siamese breeder Dorothy Hinds-Daugherty in Philadelphia found three kittens with white feet in a Siamese litter. She crossed them with bicolour American Shorthairs to fix the look, and Vikki Olander later wrote the first standard and gained experimental status in 1974. International recognition followed through the 1990s and 2000s.123
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Snowshoe kittens are born pure white; their point colour appears over the following weeks.1
2
Many Snowshoes enjoy water and some will even swim.3
3
Burton the Cat, a rescued Snowshoe, became known online for leash walks and flights.1
4
GCCF describes the breed's temperament as 'bombproof'.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed was named Snowshoe because of the characteristic white feet that resemble snowshoes.4
This morning I padded softly to my human's bed and gave a gentle purr-meow. She smiled and scratched behind my ears. After breakfast I chased my feather toy across the living room, leapfrogging over the dog, who wagged his tail. Later I sat by the window, chattering at a squirrel. When my human settled on the couch, I curled on her lap and kneaded her sweater, my purr a steady hum. At dusk I splashed a paw in her water glass, just a little, then watched her laugh. A perfect day.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Popularity 44th of 54 breeds in FIFe kitten registrations (0.04% of the total)3
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Snowshoe. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayDaily playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Snowshoe tip
Snowshoes love food puzzles and foraging mats to engage their hunting instincts, but watch their weight closely as they can easily become overweight. For dental health, look for vet-approved dental treats that help reduce plaque, and always ask your vet before introducing new treats.
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Snowshoe, and at what times?
Feed your Snowshoe a good-quality complete cat food with suitable protein, and always provide fresh water. The exact amount and schedule depend on the food label and your cat's needs, so ask your vet for a routine that keeps them healthy.1
What should a Snowshoe eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A good-quality complete cat food with suitable protein is best. Avoid dangerous foods like alcohol, chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and xylitol, as these can harm cats.15
Does a Snowshoe need baths?
Baths are rarely needed for a Snowshoe; only bathe if they are very dirty or sticky. Their short, single-layer coat stays clean with regular brushing.6
How often does a Snowshoe need brushing?
Brush your Snowshoe once a week to remove dead hair. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every 7 days, which keeps their short coat glossy and healthy.12Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Snowshoe's claws, and how often?
Trim your Snowshoe's nails every 10 days to 2 weeks, doing no more than two claws per session at first. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests every 21 days, but adjust based on your cat's activity.6Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Snowshoe need?
Your Snowshoe has high energy and loves chasing toys, learning tricks, and splashing in water. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends daily play to keep them happy and engaged.13Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Snowshoe's teeth and ears?
Brush your Snowshoe's teeth regularly, ideally daily as Furry Diary suggests every 2 days. For ears, check them weekly and clean gently if needed, but ask your vet for specific advice.12Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Snowshoe live?
A Snowshoe typically lives between 9 and 15 years, with proper care and regular vet check-ups.2
Is a Snowshoe good with children and other pets?
Yes, Snowshoes are sweet-natured and steady, getting along well with children, dogs, and other cats. They often form a special bond with one person while staying friendly with everyone.123
Can a Snowshoe be left alone?
Snowshoes thrive on company and interaction, so they may not enjoy long periods alone. If left alone, provide toys and enrichment, but consider a pet sitter or another pet for company.12
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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