Oriental Shorthair Cat: Breed Profile

Temperament and personality

Oriental Shorthairs are Siamese relatives with the same big personality: vocal, intelligent, playful and deeply attached to their people. They want to be involved, talk constantly and thrive on interaction.

They are unsuited to long periods alone and often do best in pairs.

Size and appearance

Long, slim and elegant with a wedge-shaped head, huge ears and almond eyes (usually green). The fine short coat comes in hundreds of colors and patterns.

Activity and enrichment

Very active. Plenty of play, climbing and training.

Coat care and grooming

Minimal — a weekly wipe with a soft cloth.

Typical health concerns

Every cat is an individual, and most cats of any breed live long, healthy lives with good preventive care. These are the conditions most often discussed for this breed — ask a breeder for health-testing results and discuss screening with your vet.

• Dental disease.
• Amyloidosis and progressive retinal atrophy as in the Siamese.
• Can be prone to being underweight or picky.

Who is the Oriental Shorthair right for?

Featured in: The Most Affectionate Cat Breeds, Low-Shedding Cat Breeds, Cat Breeds for Allergy Sufferers: What Actually Helps.