Snowshoe

USA · 1960s

Siamese points with white ‘snow boots’

SizeMedium7–14 lb
Life span14–19 years
CoatShort
Typical price$1,000–$2,500

Snowshoes have Siamese-style points, blue eyes, white paws and often a white inverted ‘V’ on the face. They come from Siamese and bicolor American Shorthair crosses.

At a glance

EnergyActive
Cuddlylikes touch and being heldCuddly
TalkativeSome talk
GroomingMinimal
SheddingLow
With kidsGreat
With petsLoves company
Alone timehow long they’re happy aloneShort gaps

Life with a Snowshoe

They are affectionate, social and chatty, with a softer voice than a Siamese. Many like water and learn tricks. They prefer company.

Great for
  • Families with kids
  • Multi-pet homes
  • People who are home a fair amount
Think twice if
  • Long days alone
  • You want exact markings — every kitten’s pattern is unpredictable
Care tips
  • Minimal grooming.
  • Daily play.
  • Dental care.

Health

Generally healthy. Problems seen in their Siamese ancestors, such as dental disease, can occur.

Ask the breeder for
  • Parents’ vet records
Typical US price$1,000–$2,500
RegistriesTICATICA only — ask for papers

Prices are rough ranges from registered breeders and vary by line, color and region. A much cheaper “purebred” kitten is a common scam sign.

See Snowshoe kittens

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Compare with similar breeds

Sources: breed standards and profiles from CFA and TICA, DNA tests listed by the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, and veterinary breed profiles.