Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Background
The Foreign White is a white variety of the Siamese cat that gained recognition in the 20th century. Its origin lies in Thailand, where Siamese cats were historically valued for their appearance and temperament. The pure white coat became popular in Europe and America among breeders aiming to create a refined variety with a snow-white color and balanced type. In the 1970s, the breed was formally recognized by international associations, including ICCF, which established clear standards to preserve its unique features. The Foreign White is an aristocratic, graceful, and intelligent cat with an active, friendly disposition, ideal for both families and exhibitions.
General Appearance
The Foreign White is a medium-sized cat with a slender, elegant body and well-proportioned limbs. The head is wedge-shaped with a flat forehead and strong chin, smoothly transitioning into a long, fine neck. The ears are large, high-set, wide at the base, and taper to a point, forming a triangular outline continuing the head’s shape. The eyes are almond-shaped, slightly slanted, and expressive, usually in vivid blue or green shades. The coat is short, close-lying, and pure white without any markings. The tail is long and evenly tapering to the tip. In motion, the cat moves gracefully, with balance and lightness.
Important Proportions
The Foreign White’s proportions are defined by harmony and balance throughout the body. The head length roughly equals the width between the ears, narrowing smoothly toward the muzzle. The body length slightly exceeds the height at the withers, creating a refined silhouette. The neck is long and slender, connecting seamlessly to the body. Limbs are proportional, with the hind legs slightly longer than the forelegs, allowing flexible and flowing movement. The tail, about two-thirds the body length, is straight and finely tapered. Overall, proportions should create an elegant and balanced outline without exaggeration.
Temperament and Character
The Foreign White is known for its sociable, intelligent, and lively character. Highly affectionate and curious, it seeks close contact with people and enjoys communication. It is playful, energetic, and intelligent, while remaining poised and graceful. The breed adapts well to home life and interacts easily with children and other pets. It values companionship and mental stimulation and learns quickly. The Foreign White combines aristocratic dignity with a balanced, affectionate personality.
Head
The head is wedge-shaped with smooth, even lines. The skull is flat on top, with a gently rounded and broad forehead. The transition from forehead to muzzle is soft and natural, without abrupt angles. The muzzle is fine and straight, giving the breed its refined appearance. The chin is firm yet not heavy, in harmony with the overall head shape. In profile, the head forms a smooth, elongated triangle, conveying elegance and proportion typical of the ICCF standard.
Facial Part
The face is neat and expressive, with a medium-length muzzle narrowing slightly toward the nose. The nose is straight and slender with well-defined nostrils. The chin is even and firm, forming a clean line along the jaw. Whiskers are fine and white, adding grace to the expression. The facial structure combines delicacy with clarity of outline, reflecting the refined character of the breed in ICCF standards.
Eyes
Eyes are almond-shaped, slightly slanted, and highly expressive. Medium in size, they display vivid shades of blue or light green, always pure and bright. The gaze is intelligent, alert, and curious. Eyelids are fine and well-fitted, enhancing the eye shape. The eyes’ placement creates a balanced and open expression, contributing significantly to the breed’s aesthetic according to ICCF guidelines.
Ears
The ears are large, broad at the base, and taper gracefully toward the tip. Set high and slightly forward, they emphasize the triangular head profile. The inner surface is lightly covered with fine, pale fur. Their shape and position enhance the breed’s refined outline. The ears are mobile and expressive, reflecting mood and attentiveness. Proper size, shape, and placement are essential under ICCF standards.
Neck
The neck is of medium length, slender, muscular, and elegant. It connects smoothly with the body, adding to the cat’s refined silhouette. The skin is taut and smooth. The neck should not appear short or thick, maintaining grace and balance. In profile, it forms a gentle curve, harmoniously linking head and body, as required by ICCF standards.
Body
The body is medium-sized, slender, and athletic, with well-developed muscles. The back is straight and strong, with a smooth transition from shoulders to hips. The chest is moderately deep and broad, and the abdomen slightly tucked up, emphasizing an elegant build. The overall impression is of balance, strength, and grace, in accordance with ICCF requirements.
Tail
The tail is long and slender, about two-thirds the body length, evenly tapering to a fine tip. Covered with short, close fur, it continues the line of the spine. The tail should move flexibly and naturally, maintaining proportional harmony with the body. According to ICCF standards, it is an important element of balance and silhouette.
Forelegs
The forelegs are straight, slim, and of medium length with solid bone structure and firm musculature. Paws are oval, compact, and neat, with strong, elastic pads and light-colored claws. The legs must be straight and parallel, ensuring smooth and graceful motion, reflecting the breed’s refinement.
Hind Legs
Hind legs are slightly longer and more powerful than the forelegs, with well-developed muscles and strong joints. Paws are oval and proportionate, providing springy movement and stability. Hind legs contribute to the cat’s elegance, energy, and balance, consistent with ICCF’s standards for harmony of movement.
Gait and Movement
The gait of the Foreign White is light, fluid, and confident. Movements are smooth, elastic, and well-coordinated, giving an impression of effortless grace. Steps are even, free, and rhythmic. The breed exhibits excellent balance and agility, reflecting health and elegance — essential traits for ICCF evaluation.
Coat
The coat is short, fine, and close-lying, smooth to the touch with a natural sheen. The texture is soft yet dense enough for protection. The absence of undercoat enhances the silkiness and sleek appearance. The coat must be pure white, with no yellowing, shading, or colored markings. The ICCF standard values uniformity, health, and cleanliness of the coat as hallmarks of the breed.
Allowed Colors
The Foreign White is characterized by its pure, unblemished white coat. Any marks, spots, or colored patches are disqualifying. The white should be clean and bright, free from cream or gray tones. The skin underneath should be light, without pigmentation. The eye color may vary but must not affect the recognition of the coat color under ICCF standards.
Size
Foreign Whites are medium-sized cats. Males typically stand 25–30 cm tall and weigh 3–5 kg; females are slightly smaller, at 23–27 cm and 2.5–4 kg. Both sexes exhibit proportional, elegant builds, combining compactness with flexibility. ICCF emphasizes balanced proportions, avoiding extremes of size or weight.
Faults
Faults include coarse build, incorrect head proportions, weak or poorly defined wedge shape, improper ear set or size, uneven coat color, or yellowish tone. Eyes that are small, round, or dull reduce conformity to standard. Poor condition, imbalance, or behavioral issues such as aggression or excessive timidity also affect evaluation. Serious deviations may lower show ratings.
Disqualification
Disqualification occurs in cases of severe deviation from ICCF standards: any color other than pure white, deformities of head or body, asymmetry, incorrect ear or eye placement, disproportionate limbs, skeletal defects, or impaired movement. Cats with aggressive behavior, severe illnesses, or genetic disorders are disqualified from breeding and exhibition. Lack of official ICCF documentation confirming lineage also results in exclusion.
Important Notes
The ICCF emphasizes the importance of maintaining the Foreign White’s pure white coat and refined type. Special care must be given to skin and coat health, as white cats may be sensitive to sunlight and prone to skin issues. Proper nutrition and care are essential to preserve coat shine and condition. Regular veterinary supervision helps prevent hereditary and infectious diseases. Socialization and gentle handling are key, as the breed is emotionally sensitive and thrives on human attention. All breeding and show cats must have official ICCF documents confirming origin and compliance with the standard.
Conclusion
According to ICCF, the Foreign White represents a harmonious combination of elegance, intelligence, and vitality. With its pure white coat and refined type, it is prized in breeding programs and exhibitions worldwide. Participation in ICCF events is allowed only for cats with official documentation confirming pedigree and standard compliance. Maintaining strict ICCF standards ensures the preservation of the breed’s purity, health, and beauty, securing its place among the most graceful and noble feline breeds.
