The Pet Sitter
Cat Breed

Oriental Shorthair

vocal • intelligent • social • athletic

OriginUnited Kingdom
Lifespan12-15 years
Weight3-5 kg
Energy Levelhigh

Quick Stats

Sizemedium
Weight3-5 kg
Lifespan12-15 years
Energy Levelhigh
Groominglow
Trainabilityeasy
OriginUnited Kingdom
Temperament
vocalintelligentsocialathletic

Overview

The Oriental Shorthair is a sleek, elegant cat that shares the Siamese body type but comes in an extraordinary range of over 300 colour and pattern combinations. These highly intelligent and vocal cats form intense bonds with their owners and demand constant attention.

Compatibility

Children
Good
Other Dogs
Good
Cats
Excellent
Apartment Living
Good

Care Guide

Orientals need lots of social interaction and mental stimulation. They become extremely attached to their owners and can suffer separation anxiety. Provide climbing structures, puzzle toys, and ideally a feline companion.

Exercise Needs

Very active cats requiring daily interactive play. They love climbing, jumping, and learning tricks. Agility training is an excellent activity for this breed.

Grooming

Their short, fine coat requires minimal grooming. A weekly brush or even just a gentle wipe with a chamois cloth keeps them looking sleek.

Health Concerns

amyloidosis
progressive retinal atrophy
dilated cardiomyopathy
megaesophagus

Fun Facts

🐱Oriental Shorthairs come in over 300 recognised colour and pattern combinations — more than any other cat breed.
🐱They are closely related to the Siamese and share the same body type, just without the point colouring restriction.
🐱Their large ears are disproportionately big compared to their head, giving them a distinctive bat-like appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Oriental Shorthairs vocal?
Very much so. Like their Siamese relatives, they are one of the most vocal cat breeds and will carry on full conversations with their owners.
Do Oriental Shorthairs get lonely?
Yes, they are extremely social and can become depressed if left alone. A companion cat is strongly recommended for this breed.
How many colours do Oriental Shorthairs come in?
Over 300 colour and pattern combinations, making them the most varied cat breed in terms of appearance.
Are Oriental Shorthairs the same as Siamese?
They share the same body type and personality but come in all colours and patterns, whereas Siamese have the distinctive colour-point markings.

Similar Breeds

🐱

Siamese

medium • high energy

🐱

Balinese

medium • high energy

🐱

Tonkinese

medium • high energy

🐱

Cornish Rex

small • very-high energy

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