Oriental Shorthair

If a Siamese cat fell into a paint bucket, the result would be an Oriental Shorthair. These cats have the same sleek body, big ears, and loud personality as the Siamese, but they come in a rainbow of over 300 colors and patterns. They are the “rainbow cats” of the feline world.

1. History and Origins: A Splash of Color

The Oriental Shorthair’s history is intertwined with the Siamese.

The Siamese Foundation

In the 1950s in Britain, breeders wanted to create a Siamese-type cat with different colors. They crossed Siamese cats with Russian Blues, British Shorthairs, and Abyssinians. The goal was to keep the Siamese body type and personality but introduce new coat colors.

Recognition

The experiment was a massive success. The breed was initially called “Foreign Shorthair” in the UK. In the US, it was recognized as the Oriental Shorthair in the 1970s. Today, they are one of the most popular breeds for people who want a Siamese personality without the pointed pattern.

2. Appearance: Extreme Elegance

The Oriental Shorthair is a study in lines and angles.

The Body

They are tubular and athletic. Everything about them is long: long legs, long tail, long body, and long neck. They are elegant but muscular, like a gymnast or a greyhound.

The Head

They have a wedge-shaped head and enormous, bat-like ears that flare out from the head. Their eyes are almond-shaped and typically bright green (unlike the blue eyes of the Siamese).

The Coat

The coat is very short, fine, and glossy.

• Colors: Ebony (black), pure white, chestnut, blue, lavender, red, cream… the list is endless.
• Patterns: Solid, smoke, tabby (classic, mackerel, spotted, ticked), bi-color, and parti-color.

3. Personality: Loud and Proud

Like the Siamese, the Oriental is not a quiet wallflower.

The Talker

They have a loud, raspy voice and they use it constantly. They will tell you about their day, demand food, and scold you for being late. If you want a quiet home, look elsewhere.

The “Velcro” Cat

They are intensely social. They bond closely with their humans and can become depressed if ignored. They want to be on your lap, on your shoulder, or under your covers.

Intelligence

They are dangerously smart. They can learn to fetch, open drawers, and solve puzzles. They need mental stimulation to prevent them from becoming destructive out of boredom.

4. Care and Needs

Attention

The biggest need of an Oriental Shorthair is you. They do not do well as an only pet if the owner works long hours. A feline companion is highly recommended.

Warmth

With their short coats and lean bodies, they feel the cold. They love heated beds, sunny spots, and cuddling under blankets.

Grooming

Their coat is very low maintenance. A quick rub with a soft cloth or your hand is enough to remove loose hairs and make them shine.

5. Health and Lifespan

Orientals generally share the same health profile as the Siamese.

Amyloidosis

A liver disease that can affect the breed.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

A genetic eye condition causing blindness. DNA tests are available.

Dental Issues

Their wedge-shaped heads can sometimes lead to dental crowding, so teeth cleaning is important.

6. Is an Oriental Shorthair Right for You?

Pros

• Personality: Deeply affectionate and interactive.
• Beauty: Stunning, elegant, and unique.
• Variety: Available in almost any color you can imagine.

Cons

• Noise: Very vocal and loud.
• Needy: Demands constant attention and interaction.
• Mischief: High intelligence can lead to trouble.

Conclusion

The Oriental Shorthair is a cat for someone who wants a best friend, a confidant, and an entertainer all in one. They are demanding divas, but the love and loyalty they give in return is unmatched. Life with an Oriental is never dull—and never quiet!