HISTORY
Originally, the Snowshoe resulted from crossing Siamese, or Oriental Shorthairs, with American Shorthairs. Today Snowshoes generally result from Snowshoe to Snowshoe breedings. Any of the three breeds are legal, and acceptable out crosses, provided they are the right color. Some breeders may wish to out cross in order to expand their gene pool, introduce new colors, or improve certain traits within their lines. Snowshoe Cats trace their origins back to Dorothy Hinds Daughtery of Kensijng Cattery in Philadelphia, PA. During the late 1960's her two Siamese cats produced three kittens with striking white feet. Because of the white feet, they were give the name Snowshoes.

The popularity and gene pool of the Snowshoes has been increasing, greatly due to the early efforts of breeders, Jim Hoffman, Georgia Kuhnell, Vikki Olander, and Phyllis Thompson. These breeders recognized the unique beauty of the Snowshoe and insured it's survival. Since, there has been copycats of the breed, but none are as enduring and true. Currently the Snowshoe is enjoying increasing popularity, through out the country and parts of the world.

PERSONALITY
Social! An Ideal Companion! Affectionate! Vigorous! Intelligent! Healthy! The Snowshoe Cat sparkles with intelligence. Sometimes a talker, it's voice is generally soft and melodic. Affectionate, it is an ideal companion and habitats well with other animals. Snowshoes love to be around their people. They will follow family members around the house. They love running water and many can be taught to fetch. Because snowshoes are so gregarious, they should not spend long periods of time alone. They need company. Snowshoes are a vigorous breed. They are not known for any potential health problems. Snowshoes are vibrant and alert, active but not high strung. Because they are not bred toward any extremities, the cats have remained healthy. Kept indoors, Snowshoes will remain playful and happy for many years.

COLORS, STANDARDS, DESCRIPTION
The Snowshoe is a pointed cat with white markings on its face, chest, stomach and feet. A medium to large cat, the Snowshoe combines power and agility in a well-balanced, muscular body that is mediumboned and heavily built. Bright blue eyes complement the cat's distinctive Lone Ranger mask and delicate white feet.

For further information: http://www.fifeweb.org/wp/breeds/breeds_prf_stn.html