Official ICCF Breed Description
Historical Background
The Ojos Azules cat breed originated in the United States in the early 1980s, when unique domestic shorthair cats with bright blue eyes, unrelated to white coat color or albinism, were discovered among the feline population in New Mexico. Their distinctive appearance immediately attracted the attention of breeders, and selective breeding began to preserve this trait. In 1991, the official registration of the new breed took place, and it was named Ojos Azules, which in Spanish means “blue eyes.” The population remained small due to the recessive nature of the gene, which required strict selection of breeding animals. Today, the Ojos Azules is recognized as a rare breed, valued for its expressive eyes and harmonious type.
General Appearance
The Ojos Azules gives the impression of an elegant and proportionate medium-sized cat. The body is moderately elongated, strong, with well-developed musculature but without heaviness. The overall shape is rounded and balanced, and the movements are light and graceful. The head is slightly wedge-shaped with soft contours, a defined muzzle, and a distinctive chin. Special attention is given to the eyes — large, almond-shaped, and of bright blue color — which create an unforgettable expression. The coat may be short or semi-long, silky in texture, lying close to the body and emphasizing the body lines. The color can vary, except for solid white and Himalayan patterns. Overall, the general appearance combines harmony, elegance, and a distinctive expressiveness unique to this breed.
Important Proportions
The Ojos Azules is characterized by the balance of all body parts, excluding any extremes. The head should be proportional to the body, with soft lines and smooth transitions. The body length slightly exceeds the height at the withers, giving the cat a graceful but not elongated silhouette. The limbs are of medium length, slender, in harmony with the torso, and the paws are rounded and neat. The tail corresponds to the body length, tapering toward the end, not too thick. The neck is of medium length, strong, and merges smoothly into the body. The ears should be moderately large but not excessive, set harmoniously. Particular attention is paid to the eyes — they must be large, bright blue, and rich in tone, which does not fade with age. All proportions are aimed at creating a unified and elegant type.
Behavior and Temperament
The Ojos Azules cat is distinguished by a friendly and calm temperament. It is people-oriented, affectionate, sociable, and easily establishes contact with all family members, including children. The breed is intelligent, quick to learn, and shows a lively interest in everything happening around it. The character is balanced, rarely showing aggression, preferring harmonious coexistence. At the same time, Ojos Azules cats are active and playful but not intrusive. They adapt well to different living conditions and easily tolerate travel and changes in environment. They are curious, eager to explore their surroundings, and very attached to their owner. These cats are excellent companions, valued for their sociability, intelligence, and gentle nature.
Head
The head of the Ojos Azules cat is medium-sized, proportional to the body, with a soft wedge-shaped contour and smooth lines. The skull is slightly rounded, the forehead moderately wide, and the transitions between parts of the head are gentle, without sharp angles. The cheekbones are developed but not protruding, contributing to the overall harmonious expression. The muzzle is well defined, with neat rounded lines, neither narrowed nor overly elongated. The chin is firm and even, forming a correct bite. The nose is of medium length and straight, sometimes with a slight curve. The overall shape of the head emphasizes elegance and expressiveness while maintaining balance between softness and definition.
Facial Part
The facial part of the Ojos Azules cat is characterized by soft lines and harmonious structure. The cheeks are moderately full, smoothly transitioning into the muzzle and creating a rounded, pleasant expression. The chin is strong and well developed, aligned with the tip of the nose in profile, ensuring proper balance. The muzzle is neat, of medium width, slightly rounded toward the nose, without sharp narrowing. The whiskers are long and dense, symmetrically positioned, enhancing the cat’s expressive face. The facial part should emphasize the refinement and softness of the breed, while the main focus always remains on the bright blue eyes.
Eyes
The eyes of the Ojos Azules are the breed’s defining feature. They are large, almond-shaped, set slightly obliquely but not excessively, giving the face expressiveness and a special charm. The color is exclusively bright blue, deep and saturated, without dullness or admixture, creating a captivating look. In some individuals, heterochromia is possible — one eye may be of another color, but one must always be blue. The gaze is lively, intelligent, and friendly. The eyes should be proportional to the face and set wide enough apart to create the harmonious and memorable appearance characteristic of the breed.
Ears
The ears of the Ojos Azules cat are of medium or slightly larger size, set wide apart and with a slight forward tilt. The base is broad, and the tips are gently rounded, which softens the general expression of the head. The inner surface of the ear is well furnished with protective hair, shielding the ear canal. The outer lines of the ears follow the smooth wedge shape of the head, maintaining harmony with its proportions. The placement of the ears should be symmetrical, enhancing the gentle expression of the muzzle and adding refinement to the overall look. Ears that are too large or too small, disturbing the balance of the head, are considered a fault.
Neck
The neck of the Ojos Azules cat is of medium length, strong and muscular yet elegant. It connects the head and body smoothly, forming a harmonious silhouette without abrupt transitions. The thickness of the neck is proportional to the overall type of the cat, emphasizing balance and grace. During movement, the neck remains flexible and light, never appearing short or excessively long. In adult cats, the musculature may appear more developed, highlighting strength and stability. The neck must correspond to the general proportions, maintaining smooth lines and harmony throughout the body.
Body
The body of the Ojos Azules cat is medium in size, elongated but not stretched, strong and well proportioned. The back is straight, the chest is broad with good depth and roundness, giving an impression of strength without heaviness. The abdomen is slightly tucked up, with a smooth and elegant lower line. The croup is gently rounded, adding softness to the silhouette. The musculature is well developed but covered by graceful lines, combining elegance with endurance. The body structure is balanced to blend beauty and functionality, maintaining harmony in all parts. Excessive coarseness or thinness is undesirable.
Tail
The tail of the Ojos Azules cat is proportionate to the body length, broad at the base and tapering toward a rounded tip. It is flexible and mobile, carried smoothly when the cat moves, without kinks or stiffness. The coat on the tail is dense and even, matching the general coat length on the body, creating a harmonious appearance. The tail continues the line of the back and should not be shortened or overly long. When at rest, it hangs down naturally, and when active, it forms an elegant curve. Any kinks, knots, or excessive fluffiness disturb the balance of the exterior and are considered faults.
Forelimbs
The forelimbs of the Ojos Azules are of medium length, straight, slender, and well developed, with a strong bone structure and dry musculature. The shoulder blades are firmly attached, providing stability and smooth movement. The shoulders are strong but not coarse, proportional to the body. Elbows point directly backward, neither turned outward nor pressed too close to the body, ensuring correct limb positioning. The bones of the legs are fine yet sufficiently solid to provide agility and activity. Paws are round, compact, with neat toes and claws. The forelimbs emphasize the body’s balance, adding elegance and steadiness to the overall type.
Hindlimbs
The hindlimbs of the Ojos Azules are slightly longer than the forelimbs, emphasizing the elegance of the silhouette and giving gracefulness to movement. The thighs are muscular but not coarse, the knees well defined, with smooth lines. The lower legs are slender, proportionate, with strong bones and adequate musculature. The hock joints are firm, directed straight backward, without inward or outward turning. The paws are round, compact, with neat pads and proportional toes. This hindlimb structure ensures a smooth, free gait, demonstrating a perfect combination of strength and elegance required for the breed.
Gait and Movement
The gait of the Ojos Azules is light, elastic, and graceful. In motion, the cat displays flexibility and poise, with firm yet soft steps free of stiffness. The limbs move parallel, with correct paw placement, creating a smooth and confident rhythm. The tail accompanies the movement fluidly, serving as a natural balancer. Movements should not be abrupt or angular; hesitation or instability is undesirable. When running, the cat shows agility and speed while maintaining smoothness. The overall dynamics of movement emphasize natural power and harmony, creating the impression of a refined yet resilient animal.
Coat
The coat of the Ojos Azules may be short or semi-long. In both varieties, it must be silky, soft, and close-lying. In shorthaired cats, the coat is smooth and glossy, emphasizing the body’s graceful lines. In semi-longhaired cats, the coat is fuller, with a light undercoat that adds volume, especially around the ruff, breeches, and tail. The texture should always feel soft and pleasant to the touch, never coarse. All colors are permitted except solid white and Siamese-type patterns. The coat must underline the elegance of the cat, creating a well-groomed and harmonious appearance.
Acceptable Colors
The Ojos Azules breed allows a wide variety of colors, including solid, smoke, tabby, tortoiseshell, bicolor, and tricolor patterns. The main exclusions are solid white, which may hide genetic defects, and Siamese or Himalayan patterns, which are not permitted. The blue eye color is mandatory regardless of coat color — it is the breed’s defining feature. In some cats, heterochromia may occur, with one eye blue and the other amber, green, or golden. Such combinations are acceptable and even prized. The coat should always appear rich and even in color, while the eyes retain their vivid, intense blue tone.
Size
Ojos Azules cats are classified as medium-sized. Males are generally larger than females but retain the breed’s characteristic elegance. Females typically weigh between 3 and 4.5 kilograms, while males reach 4 to 6 kilograms. The height at the withers is proportional to the body length, creating a balanced impression. The cats should not appear either overly massive or too refined. Their size reflects a combination of strength and refinement, suitable for indoor living. Height and weight must remain in harmony with the musculature, forming the correct breed type consistent with ICCF standards.
Faults
Faults in the Ojos Azules breed include any deviations from the established standard that disrupt harmony or balance. Among them are an overly coarse or, conversely, excessively delicate body type, a chest that is too narrow or overly broad, or weak musculature. Heads with sharp angles, overly long or short muzzles, and poor definition are considered undesirable. Small, dull, or pale eyes lacking the required bright blue intensity are faults, as are incorrect eye shapes or excessive roundness. Ears that are disproportionately large or small disturb the head’s symmetry and are also undesirable. Faulty coat texture — overly fluffy, harsh, or with a poor undercoat in semi-longhaired cats — is penalized. In temperament, excessive shyness or aggression is undesirable. All such traits detract from the harmonious ICCF type.
Disqualification
Disqualifying faults include any serious deviations from the breed standard. These include the complete absence of blue eye color in both eyes regardless of coat color, the presence of strabismus, strong facial asymmetry, or jaw deformities. Deafness and congenital defects of hearing or vision are not permitted. Cats with a solid white coat or Himalayan (Siamese-type) color are disqualified, as these contradict ICCF standards. A tail with kinks, knots, or shortening, as well as skeletal defects affecting movement, are also disqualifying. Any hereditary disease that interferes with a cat’s health or breeding suitability is grounds for exclusion. Aggressive or excessively fearful behavior also leads to disqualification.
Important Notes
The Ojos Azules is an extremely rare breed with a limited population; therefore, only cats with official ICCF documents confirming their origin and health may be used in breeding. Special attention is paid to inherited traits, as the blue-eye gene in homozygous form can cause lethal mutations. Breeding two cats carrying the same genetic trait is strictly prohibited. Breeding is permitted only under the supervision of specialists and within programs aimed at preserving the breed’s health. It is also important to consider that cats of different coat colors may produce a variety of shades in offspring, while the blue eyes remain the defining feature. Owners are advised to undergo regular veterinary check-ups and participate in ICCF breeding programs to preserve the rarity and uniqueness of the breed.
Conclusion
The Ojos Azules is a rare and valuable breed distinguished by its unique hallmark — bright blue eyes that persist regardless of coat color. These cats combine elegance of form, a balanced temperament, and an expressive appearance. The ICCF system establishes strict requirements for both exterior and behavior to maintain the breed’s purity. Participation in shows and breeding programs is permitted only for cats with official ICCF documentation confirming their origin and conformity to the standard. Without such documents, animals are not eligible for breeding. The breed requires a responsible approach to preservation and development; therefore, control over breeding programs and compliance with ICCF rules are of critical importance. The Ojos Azules is not only a rare but also a symbolic breed, representing beauty, grace, and the dedication of responsible breeders.
