Snowshoe

Snowshoes are usually confident cats: the GCCF describes their temperament as "bombproof", with little seeming to faze them. They are quick and intelligent, enjoy interactive play and often learn to play fetch. Most form a main bond with one chosen person while staying friendly with others, and they like to be close by, though they would rather lead than follow.

They can be chatty, with a softer voice than the Siamese, and some can be quite bossy. Personalities vary: some are very friendly, some are loners and some take on a caring role with their people. Purina UK notes that their curiosity can occasionally lead them into danger, though they are usually clever enough to get themselves out of trouble.

The Snowshoe is a medium-sized, firm and muscular cat with the build of a runner and jumper rather than a weightlifter, and it often feels heavier than it looks. Adults typically weigh about 3 to 5.5 kg. Males are usually larger than females, although some females match males in size.

The coat is short, smooth and single-layered, with no undercoat. Snowshoes come in all the Siamese colours, including tabby and tortie varieties, combined with white feet and other white trim. Kittens are born completely white, and the darker points on the ears, face, legs and tail develop over the first weeks. No two kittens have the same markings.

This is a playful, active cat that needs plenty to do. Snowshoes love climbing frames, especially those with tunnels or hammocks, high sleeping platforms and fishing rod toys. They also enjoy food-dispensing puzzle toys and hidden snacks. Not every Snowshoe likes the same games, so it helps to find out what your cat enjoys. Fragile ornaments on shelves are likely to be knocked off.

The short coat is easy to look after. The GCCF rates maintenance as low, and most Snowshoes groom themselves well; Purina UK suggests a weekly brush to remove dead hair, check for parasites and bond with your cat. A cat that stops grooming, leaving a greasy coat, may be unwell or stressed. Shedding is moderate.

Purina UK suggests some secure outdoor space, such as a fully secured garden or a purpose-built cat run with platforms, branches, tunnels and toys, which benefits the Snowshoe's physical and mental health. Outdoor space is not a substitute for company, though: Snowshoes are sociable and depend on their people, and they need your time and attention as well as things to climb.

The GCCF says Snowshoes readily accept children. Purina UK suggests they are best suited to a quieter home, are fine with older children who respect a cat's space, and may find very busy, loud households, or homes with many young visitors, too much.

Whatever the breed, young children should be supervised around cats and shown how to stroke them gently and let them walk away.

Snowshoes usually fit in well in homes with several cats and readily accept other breeds of cat and dogs. Some, however, are loners that prefer to have their owner's full attention.

Purina UK describes the Snowshoe as a generally healthy breed. The GCCF's care text gives a life expectancy of about 9 to 15 years, while its breed summary and Purina UK give longer ranges of around 14 to 20 years.