Oriental Shorthair

Siamese in 300+ colours and patterns. Talkative, slim, intensely social.

GroupShort Hair
OriginUnited Kingdom (1950s)
Weight2.5–5 kg
Height20–25 cm
Lifespan12–15 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK

The Oriental Shorthair was developed in 1950s Britain by crossing Siamese with British Shorthairs and Russian Blues, then breeding for the Siamese type with non-pointed coats. Today the breed exists in over 300 colour and pattern combinations β€” but the temperament is pure Siamese: vocal, intelligent and intensely social.

Temperament

Vocal, social, intelligent, demanding. Orientals form deep bonds with their humans and need constant company.

Exercise needs

Highly active. Need interactive toys, vertical space, and ideally another cat for company.

Grooming

Short fine coat β€” weekly brush.

Common health issues

Same as Siamese: amyloidosis, asthma, dental disease, separation anxiety, glaucoma. Generally healthy.

πŸ‘ Best for

Owners who are home a lot, multi-cat households, families with older children.

πŸ‘Ž Not best for

Quiet households, frequent travellers.

Products for Oriental Shorthair owners

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