Snowshoe

Key Visual Markers

• Color-point pattern with four white paws (gloves) and a white inverted-V blaze on the face — the white mitts extend up the legs with a clean line on the front and continue higher on the hind legs; the white blaze runs from between the eyes down to the nose or muzzle; no two Snowshoes have identical white markings
• Large, vivid deep blue eyes — almond-shaped but rounder than the Siamese; the CFA says "large, almond-shaped, with a rounder contour than the Siamese"; the blue is rich and consistent, not pale or washed out
• Modified wedge-shaped head with a gentle curve, medium-length muzzle, and visible stop — longer than it is wide but not extreme; the muzzle is neither pointed nor blunt, and the cheeks are moderately full
• Ears medium to large, wide at the base with pointed tips — set as much on the side as the top of the head, following the wedge lines without extending beyond them
• Medium-to-large, sturdy athletic body — well-muscled, solid, and of moderate length; substantially heavier and more robust than the Siamese, reflecting the American Shorthair contribution to the breed
• Short, fine, glossy coat that lies flat against the body — minimal undercoat; the coat is sleek with a satin sheen, showing the point colors clearly against the white markings

Temperament & Traits

• People-oriented and affectionate — follows owners from room to room, greets at the door, and wants to be involved in household activities
• Intelligent and curious — learns tricks, opens doors, and solves puzzle feeders; needs mental stimulation
• Playful with moderate energy — enjoys interactive toys and climbing but settles quickly for lap time
• Social with strangers and other pets — more outgoing than the Siamese; adapts well to visitors and multi-pet households
• Vocal but not as loud as the Siamese — communicates with a softer, sweeter voice; expresses needs clearly without being demanding
• Sensitive to being left alone — does best where someone is home regularly or with another cat for company

Health Notes

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) — inherited from Siamese ancestry; regular echocardiogram screening recommended for breeding cats; early detection through annual cardiac screening improves management outcomes
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) — the same rdAc mutation found in Siamese lines has been reported in Snowshoes; DNA testing available; symptoms begin with night blindness progressing over several years
• Feline asthma and bronchial disease — higher incidence than the general cat population, inherited from Siamese ancestry; symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and labored breathing; triggers include dust, smoke, and aerosol sprays
• Dental disease — the moderate muzzle length can cause some tooth crowding; regular dental care and annual cleanings recommended
• Obesity — the solid athletic build and moderate activity level mean weight management is an ongoing priority; measured portions and scheduled feeding recommended

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a veterinarian for health advice specific to your cat.