History & Origin
Created by Philadelphia breeder Dorothy Hinds-Daugherty in the 1960s by crossing Siamese with bicolor American Shorthairs. The breed remains rare — TICA registers only a few hundred annually.
Temperament & Personality
Devoted, playful, moderately vocal. Snowshoes pick a favorite human and follow them everywhere.
Health Watchouts
Top conditions reported by CFA/TICA parent clubs, AAFP, the Winn Feline Foundation, and the Merck Veterinary Manual. Discuss screening with your vet — especially before breeding or insuring.
Periodontal disease
70%+ of cats by age 3Plaque hardens to tartar and inflames gums, leading to tooth loss and bacteremia.
Screening: Annual oral exam; daily brushing or VOHC-approved dental treats; professional cleaning every 1–2 years
Obesity
≈60% of indoor cats (AAHA)Excess weight increases risk of diabetes, arthritis, hepatic lipidosis and shortens lifespan by ~2 years.
Screening: Monthly body condition score (target 4–5/9); measure all food; structured play 2× daily
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Breed-elevated riskThickening of the left ventricular heart wall — the most common heart disease in cats. Inherited risk from Siamese ancestry; screen breeding stock.
Screening: Annual echocardiogram from a board-certified cardiologist; DNA test where available (Maine Coon, Ragdoll)
Strabismus (crossed eyes)
Common, cosmetic onlyInherited from Siamese line. Does not affect vision.
Screening: None needed
Asthma
Slight elevation from Siamese lineChronic airway inflammation.
Screening: Annual breath-sound exam
Enrichment & Play
Active and curious — appreciate climbing and play.
- Cat trees
- Wand toys
- Puzzle feeders
- Window perches
- Clicker training
- Companion cat
Nutrition
Daily calories: Adult: 220–300 kcal/day.
Two measured meals daily.
Common allergens to watch: Fish.
⚠ Body-score monthly.
Grooming & Coat Care
Brush weekly. Self-maintaining coat.
Cost of Ownership
Lifetime cost depends on lifespan, vet care, and litter/food choices. Try our Lifetime Cost Calculator →
Cost band for Snowshoe: medium.
Living Situation Fit
Active families. Apartment-friendly.
Choosing a Kitten
Rare breed — wait lists are common. Pet-quality kittens $600–$1,200.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Snowshoe cats so rare?
The white-glove pattern is genetically tricky to produce reliably, and the breed never gained mainstream registry traction. Fewer than 100 active breeders worldwide.
