Birman vs Oriental Short Hair
Compare Birman and Oriental Short Hair side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Birman
Oriental Short Hair
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
25 – 30 cm
20 – 25 cm
Weight
2 – 5 kg
2 – 5 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 16 years
10 – 15 years
Child friendly
5/5
4/5
Energy level
4/5
5/5
Intelligence
4/5
5/5
Trainability
3/5
5/5
Health
4/5
3/5
Grooming needs
2/5
3/5
Shedding
3/5
3/5
Barking level
0/5
0/5
Aggressiveness
0/5
0/5
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Characteristics
Birman
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Low grooming
Oriental Short Hair
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Easy to train
Summary
About Birman
The Birman is a medium‑large, semi‑longhaired pointed cat with deep blue eyes and distinctive white “gloves.” Its silky coat is easy to maintain. Affectionate and people‑focused, it is moderately active, gentle with children and pets, and thrives on regular company and interaction.
About Oriental Short Hair
Oriental Shorthairs are elegant, athletic cats with a Siamese‑type body, large ears and a sleek, low‑maintenance coat in many colors and patterns. Highly social, vocal, playful and intelligent, they crave daily interaction, mental stimulation and close companionship with their people.
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