Ocicat
One look at those sensational spots and people ask, “Is this one of the new “wild” breeds?” Ocicats aren’t all that new and they’re anything BUT wild! The Ocicat is a medium to large, well-spotted agouti cat of moderate type.
Last updated: October 2026 · 6 sources · see sources
| Weight | 6–15 lb [1] |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | 12–18+ years [1] |
| Coat | Longhair [2] |
| Look | The Ocicat is a medium to large, well-spotted agouti cat of moderate type. [2] |
| Personality | One look at those sensational spots and people ask, “Is this one of the new “wild” breeds?” Ocicats aren’t all that new and they’re anything BUT wild! [2] |
| Recognized by | CFA (Cat Fanciers' Association) [2] |
Activity and exercise
One look at those sensational spots and people ask, “Is this one of the new “wild” breeds?” Ocicats aren’t all that new and they’re anything BUT wild! Selectively bred from three of the cat fancy’s most popular breeds, this 100% domestic hybrid was designed to emulate the spotted wildcats of Central and South America. [2]
Grooming
Ocicats are not heavy shedders and require only minimal grooming. Some owners like to use a rubber brush on the coat to occasionally remove dead hair and control shedding, but if your cat is a very light shedder, you can simply use a chamois. [2]
Health issues to budget for
PetMD's vet-reviewed breed guide lists these conditions to know about: Amyloidosis, Pyruvate Kinase (PK) Deficiency, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Routine vet visit, any cat (owner bills) | $190–$525 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a cat, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,149 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, cat (US 2025) | $435/year | [5] |
| Cat kidney disease (CKD) care | $600–$3,500 total | [6] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for cats in general or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- One look at those sensational spots and people ask, “Is this one of the new “wild” breeds?” Ocicats aren’t all that new and they’re anything BUT wild! [2]
- The first Ocicat, Tonga, born in 1964, resulted from an attempt to cross an Abyssinian with a Siamese to produce “Aby-pointed” Siamese. [2]
- Often described as having a dog-like personality, Ocicats are dedicated to their owners but are neither clingy nor demanding. [2]
Good fit for
- Our sources don't publish fit ratings for this breed. Meet the breed, talk to breeders or rescues, and read the profile above.
Common questions
How long do Ocicat cats live?
PetMD's vet-reviewed guide gives a lifespan of 12–18 years.
How big does a Ocicat get?
PetMD lists a weight of 6–15 lb.
More cat breeds
Sources (6) — tap to show
- PetMD – Ocicat cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
- CFA – Ocicat breed profile
- VetReceipt – Cat Routine Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
- NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)
- VetReceipt – Cat Kidney Disease (CKD) Treatment Cost (owner bills, 2026)