One reason that the Snowshoe has not attracted more breeders in the 25 years of its existence is that blending all the genetic elements together to create the perfect Snowshoe isn’t easy. Four traits in particular make it difficult. The first is the inverted “V” facial pattern that should extend from the mouth to the whisker tufts above the eyes. This pattern is governed by the piebald white spotting gene symbolized (S). Because this gene is incompletely dominant, if a cat inherits two copies of the gene, it will have larger areas of white than a cat with one copy of the gene. The effect, however, is not consistent, and other genes can affect the white areas. It’s difficult to predict how this gene will express itself, or predict which kittens will inherit two copies, so regulating the gene is a real challenge.

The second trait that gives breeders pause is the white boots for which the Snowshoe was named. This trait may be governed by the piebald gene as well, or may be governed by a recessive “gloving” (g) gene. Either way, this trait is also difficult to control. Ideally, the boots should extend to the bend of the ankle in front, and to just below the hock joint on the back feet. Often, however, the white doesn’t extend high enough or extends too high. Some-times a foot will lack white, and sometimes a Snowshoe will not possess any white at all.

Achieving the perfect Siamese pattern and shading can be challenging, too. The pointed pattern comes in either seal or blue point, because lavender and chocolate, being “dilute” colors of seal and blue, tend to mask the white pattern important to this breed.

On top of everything, the Snowshoe standard calls for a body type that combines the heftiness of the American Shorthair with the length of the Siamese. Although the conformation is easier to perfect than the pattern, getting just the right head shape and ear set further complicates the already complicated. With this exacting standard, it’s no wonder that creating the perfect Snowshoe is a tricky task.

• ☆☆☆☆☆☆                 Activity
• ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆          Playfulness
• ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆              Need for Attention
• ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆              Affection
• ☆☆☆☆☆                     Need to Vocalize
• ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆              Docility
• ☆☆☆☆☆☆                 Intelligence
• ☆☆☆☆☆☆                 Independence
• ☆☆☆☆☆                    Healthiness and Hardiness
• ☆☆☆☆☆                     Grooming needs
• ☆☆☆☆☆☆                  Good with children
• ☆☆☆☆☆☆                  Good with other pets