The Snowshoe began in 1960s Philadelphia, when three kittens in a Siamese litter were born with white feet. Crosses with bicolor American Shorthairs preserved the look: a medium, athletic cat of about 7 to 12 pounds with a short, smooth coat, Siamese-style points, blue eyes and crisp white mittens. The pattern is unpredictable, so true Snowshoes are rare, and many cats called Snowshoes are pointed domestic cats with white feet.
Snowshoes tend to be affectionate and gentle, and many attach to a favorite person. They're smart and curious, learning tricks and how to open doors, and some enjoy playing with water. Their voices are soft rather than loud. In Boca Raton's indoor, air-conditioned homes, that adds up to a cat who wants interaction, so a few play sessions a day matter. Personalities vary, especially in Snowshoe-pattern mixes.