Snowshoes

As mentioned last week, there are several breeds that are offshoots of Siamese. One being the Snowshoe. The Snowshoe breed originated in America. They are know for their white boots and inverted V on their face. The breed first came about when Siamese breeder Dorothy Hinds-Daugherty discovered three kittens with white paws in one of her litters. Later Vikki Olander bred American shorthairs and Siamese to create the breed. In 1974 the Snowshoe was accepted by the CFF and ACA as an experimental breed. By 1990 they gained championship status from CFF and ACFA.
While the Snowshoe isn't quite as vocal as the Siamese, they still love to talk. Besides their pretty blue eyes and white boots, one of the most interesting characteristics of the Snowshoe is that many of them are fascinated by water. Some love to swim. The Snowshoe is known for its intelligence and affectionate nature. They adore their humans.
Physically they're more muscular than the Siamese and range from eight to sixteen pounds. Temperamentally, they are known to get along with both children and other pets. I have yet to hear of linked health problems, unless of course, the cat comes from a 'puppy mill and is inbred.' The Snowshoe can live into its twenties.
If you're looking for a Snowshoe try petfinder.com or your local rescue or shelter. Most of the attached pics are of kitties that came into rescue and may not be 'pure' Snowshoes, but they're awfully pretty and mighty sweet, with their blue eyes and white feet.
~*~
Shameless self-promotion.
Shardai is a large sleek cat with attitude. He has the courage of a tiger and the disdain of a king. The fearless feline has only one weakness...his guardian. He would do anything for her, even come back from the afterlife.
Available at Smashwords for .99.