Oriental Shorthair

The Oriental Shorthair is a slender, fine-boned cat closely related to the Siamese, sharing its elegant build, large flared ears and long tapering body. The key difference is colour: rather than the Siamese's pointed pattern, Orientals come in a huge range of solid colours, shades and patterns, often called the 'rainbow' cat.

Yes. The Oriental Shorthair was developed from the Siamese and shares the same body type, voice and temperament. Essentially it is a Siamese in different coat colours and patterns. The two breeds are often bred together, and Oriental litters can sometimes produce pointed (Siamese-style) kittens.

Orientals are highly intelligent, sociable and deeply attached to their people. They are talkative, demanding of attention and dislike being left alone for long. Playful and curious well into adulthood, they thrive on interaction, climbing and games, and often follow their owners from room to room like a small shadow.

Orientals are a medium-sized but light, athletic cat. Most adults weigh roughly 3.5 to 5.5kg, with males typically larger than females. Despite their slim, leggy appearance they are surprisingly muscular and feel firm and solid when handled.

No. Their short, fine, close-lying coat sheds relatively little and needs minimal grooming, usually just an occasional stroke with a soft brush or grooming glove. They are low-maintenance on coat care, though no cat is truly hypoallergenic.

Generally yes. They are friendly, people-oriented cats that usually enjoy company, including respectful children and other cats or cat-friendly dogs. As a social breed they often do best with a companion, especially in homes where people are out during the day.

With good care, Orientals commonly live into their early-to-mid teens and often beyond, similar to the Siamese. Like that breed they can be prone to certain inherited conditions, so buying from a breeder who health-tests their cats and providing regular veterinary care helps support a long life.

Good with children. As a general guide they are tolerant and sociable in a family home. Always teach children to handle cats gently and give the cat space to retreat.

Devoted lap cat. Oriental Shorthairs typically love close company and lap time.

Extremely talkative. They like to "talk" and will often let you know how they feel.

Wash-and-go; shedding is low. The coat is generally easy to care for with the occasional brush.

Needs constant company. They strongly prefer company and can become stressed or lonely if left for long periods — a feline companion or a less empty house suits them better.

High energy. They need plenty of daily play, climbing and enrichment to stay happy.