How to Identify an Ocicat

People breed many animals for specific features. In the case of the ocicat, the desired characteristic is this breed's likeness to wild cats such as ocelots, leopards and margays. Ocicats' coats emulate the coats of these wild cats, while their personalities offer a spontaneous and curious nature.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Count the spots. Ocicats are known for their spot-covered fur. People breed these cats to imitate the natural spotting patterns of some wild cats.

2. Watch the walls. Ocicats are athletic and active cats. They participate in physically strenuous play habits. When their owners restrict them, they climb the walls or curtains.

3. Look for your dogs. Ocicats are sometimes considered very dog-like felines. They are playful in a manner similar to dogs, and exhibit a very similar loyalty as well as the general desire to be physically close to their family members.

4. Check your vet bill. Most ocicats are very healthy. The mixture of breeding and active lifestyles leaves many ocicat owners without significant vet expenses.

5. Teach an old cat new tricks. Ocicats are generally highly intelligent. They learn rules, respond to vocal commands, play games and can walk on leashes.

Tips & Warnings

• People breed ocicats for their exotic spotting patterns largely as a means to reduce poaching and other harm done to animals that have these spots. With the ocicat, there is a safe way to have a wild-looking cat in a domestic environment.

Resources

• Learn more about ocicats at the Cat Fanciers' Association website.