Cat breed
Snowshoe
The Snowshoe is a TICA-recognized cat breed.
Last updated: October 2026 · 6 sources · see sources
Quick answerSnowshoe cost: about $800–$1,330 a year for an adult before insurance, plus size, lifespan, health issues and care needs, from sourced US data.
| Weight | 7–14 lb [1] |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | 14–20+ years [1] |
| Coat | Shorthair [1] |
| Personality | See PetMD profile for temperament [1] |
| Recognized by | TICA (The International Cat Association) [2] |
Activity and exercise
Our sources don't describe this breed's activity needs in detail yet. [1]
Grooming
If you notice your cat is overgrooming, itchy, or has skin irritation, schedule a checkup with your veterinarian. Otherwise, Snowshoes don’t require special skin care or bathing. [1]
Health issues to budget for
PetMD's vet-reviewed breed guide lists these conditions to know about: Pica, Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). [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 heart disease treatment (owner bills) | $525–$1,250 | [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?
- True to their charming name, the sociable Snowshoe cat flaunts mittened paws or “boots” adorned with snow-white fur. [1]
- Snowshoe cats are medium to medium-large cats, weighing 7–14 pounds and measuring 8–13 inches at the shoulder. [1]
- Whether they inherit a love of conversation from their Siamese parent or a touch of laid-back charm from their American Shorthair half, you can expect your Snowshoe to cherish connecting with others. [1]
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 Snowshoe cats live?
PetMD's vet-reviewed guide gives a lifespan of 14–20 years.
How big does a Snowshoe get?
PetMD lists a weight of 7–14 lb.
More cat breeds
Sources (6) — tap to show
- PetMD – Snowshoe cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
- TICA – Browse All Breeds (73 recognized breeds)
- 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 Heart Disease Treatment Cost (owner bills, 2026)