Ocicat
United States
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–7 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–16 yrs
- outgoing
- confident
- devoted
- trainable
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Ocicat
The Ocicat was created in the United States in the 1960s from crosses between Abyssinian and Siamese cats, with American Shorthair added later. Despite its wild look, it contains no wild ancestry. It is a large, athletic spotted cat with a short, satiny coat in which the spots are made of ticked hairs.
Temperament
Outgoing, confident and devoted. Ocicats are sociable, often learn tricks and come when called. They dislike being left alone and do well with other pets.
Play & activity
Active and intelligent. Daily play, fetching games and puzzle feeders help. Harness walks can suit some.
Grooming
The short coat needs only a weekly brush and occasional polish with a cloth.
Care & wellbeing
Inherited conditions from the parent breeds can occur, including a form of retinal atrophy and kidney amyloidosis in some lines. They thrive best with company.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 5 kg adult- Water
- 200 ml–300 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 280 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 30–45 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Ocicat
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The Ocicat appeared in the United States from Siamese and Abyssinian lines, creating a spotted cat that looks wild but has no wild ancestry. It is confident, social and fond of attention.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Pyruvate kinase deficiency
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Renal amyloidosis
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- PK deficiency DNA test
- PRA DNA test
Not every Ocicat is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Ocicat right for you?
Could suit
- Homes with time for lots of interactive play
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- People who want an affectionate, people-focused cat
Think twice if
- The cat will be alone and unoccupied for long stretches
Common questions
How big does a Ocicat get?
Adult Ocicats typically weigh around 3–7 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Ocicats live?
Typically 12–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Ocicat?
Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Ocicat need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Ocicats affectionate?
Typically very people-focused and affectionate. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Ocicats shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Ocicats good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Ocicat live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Ocicats have?
The breed can be prone to pyruvate kinase deficiency, progressive retinal atrophy (pra), renal amyloidosis. Not every Ocicat is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.