Oriental Short Hair

Quick Facts

The Oriental Shorthair is a close relative of the Siamese, sharing the same elegant body and large ears, but coming in an astonishing variety of colors and patterns.
This breed is famously talkative and expressive, using a wide range of meows, chirps, and trills to “chat” with their people throughout the day.
Oriental Shorthairs are energetic, playful, and highly social, often forming strong bonds with one special person while still loving the whole family.
Their short, sleek coat is very low maintenance, which makes them ideal for owners who want a striking cat without intensive grooming needs.
These cats are intelligent problem solvers who enjoy puzzle toys, clicker training, and interactive play, and they can become bored or mischievous if not mentally stimulated.

Appearance & Coat

The Oriental Shorthair is the picture of feline elegance. Closely related to the Siamese, they share the same graceful, long body shape that can remind you of a feline ballerina. Their body is long and tubular with fine bones, yet they are more muscular than they first appear. When you pick up an Oriental Shorthair, you often notice that they feel more solid and athletic than their delicate lines suggest.

One of the most captivating features of the Oriental Shorthair is the head shape. The head forms a long, tapering wedge that continues in a straight line from the nose to the large, pointed ears. The ears are impressively big compared with the head and are set so they seem to continue the wedge shape. Their eyes are medium sized, almond shaped, and set slightly slanted toward the nose, which gives them a keen, alert, and slightly exotic expression. Eye color varies depending on the coat, but bright green is typical in many Oriental Shorthairs, while some color patterns may have blue or odd eyes.

The body is carried on long, slender legs, with the hind legs a little higher than the front, and ends in a fine, whippy tail that tapers to a delicate tip. Overall, the outline of an Oriental Shorthair is all about flow and length, with no abrupt angles. When in motion, they move with an easy, fluid grace that shows off their athleticism.

Their coat is one of their greatest visual assets. The Oriental Shorthair has a very short, tight, close-lying coat that feels smooth and satiny to the touch. There is no dense undercoat, which gives them a sleek, polished appearance and brings out the muscle contours of the body. Although the coat is short, it comes in an almost endless variety of colors and patterns. This is one of the breed’s most famous traits. You can find Oriental Shorthairs in:

Solid colors such as black, blue, chocolate, lilac, cinnamon, fawn, red, and cream
Shaded and smoke varieties where the hair tips are colored but the roots are light
Tabby patterns including classic, mackerel, spotted, and ticked tabby
Bi-color and parti-color combinations, including tortie patterns and white spotting

Breeders often say that if you can imagine a color or pattern, there is probably an Oriental Shorthair that wears it.

Coat care is delightfully straightforward. Because the coat is short and lies flat, it does not tend to tangle or mat. A gentle weekly grooming session is usually enough to keep it looking its best. Many Oriental Shorthairs enjoy being stroked with a soft rubber grooming glove, which removes loose hairs and stimulates the skin. This simple routine helps reduce shedding around the home and can be turned into a bonding ritual. During seasonal shedding periods, you can brush slightly more often to keep loose hair under control.

Bathing is rarely necessary unless your cat gets into something particularly messy. If you choose to bathe your Oriental Shorthair occasionally, use a gentle cat specific shampoo and ensure they are thoroughly dried in a warm, draft free room. Because of their fine coat and lean body, they can feel the cold more than some thicker coated breeds, so a warm lap, cozy blanket, or heated bed is always appreciated, especially in cooler climates.

Regular checks of the ears and eyes help maintain their striking looks. Their large ears can be prone to wax build up, so a quick check during grooming is wise. Wipe only the visible outer ear with a damp cotton pad, and never insert cotton buds. With minimal grooming requirements and such a spectacular variety of appearances, the Oriental Shorthair suits owners who appreciate beauty with low daily maintenance.

Temperament & Personality

Living with an Oriental Shorthair feels a bit like sharing your home with a highly expressive, agile, and affectionate toddler in a cat’s body. These cats are intelligent, curious, and intensely people focused. Many Oriental Shorthair owners describe them as “velcro cats” because they prefer to be wherever their humans are, whether that is on the sofa, at the desk, or even following you into the bathroom to supervise.

The breed has a well known reputation for being vocal. Their voice can be similar to that of a Siamese, though individuals vary. Some have a softer, chirpy meow, while others have a louder, more demanding voice that leaves no doubt about what they want. They use their voice to comment on daily events, remind you that dinner is due, greet you at the door, or encourage you to start a play session. If you enjoy a quiet, very independent cat, this might not be the best fit. However, if you like conversation and interaction, the Oriental Shorthair can be a delightful companion.

Personality wise, most Oriental Shorthairs are playful, inquisitive, and outgoing. They often remain kitten like well into adulthood and even into their senior years. Many enjoy retrieving small toys, chasing feather wands, and leaping high after dangling teasers. They are clever enough to open cupboard doors, figure out puzzle feeders, and sometimes find ways into places you thought were securely closed. Because of this intelligence, they thrive when given regular mental and physical stimulation.

With families, Oriental Shorthairs usually do very well, especially in active households where there is plenty going on. They can bond strongly with older children who learn how to interact respectfully and who enjoy playing games with them. Supervision is important with young children to ensure the cat is handled gently, as their fine boned frame can be more sensitive to rough play. When introduced gradually and kindly, many Oriental Shorthairs are tolerant and enjoy the extra attention that family life brings.

Their social nature also extends to other animals in many cases. Oriental Shorthairs often enjoy living with another cat, preferably one that matches their energy level. Another Oriental, Siamese, or similar active breed can be an ideal companion. With dogs, they usually get along well if the dog is cat friendly and introductions are done slowly and calmly. These cats dislike being left completely alone for long stretches day after day. If the household is out for many hours, it is worth considering having another friendly cat as a companion or putting extra thought into enrichment and interactive toys.

Common challenges with this breed often relate to their high energy and emotional sensitivity. A bored Oriental Shorthair can become demanding, noisy, or may resort to attention seeking behavior such as knocking items off shelves, climbing curtains, or scratching inappropriately. They are also very tuned in to the mood of their humans. Major changes in routine, long absences, or family stress can affect them, sometimes resulting in anxiety related behaviors.

To bring out the best in an Oriental Shorthair, they need:

Regular interactive play sessions
Daily attention and affection
Mental enrichment such as puzzle toys or training
A stable, predictable home environment

When these needs are met, the Oriental Shorthair becomes a deeply affectionate, entertaining, and loyal companion who will happily share their thoughts with you at any hour of the day.

Training & Exercise

Oriental Shorthairs are among the more trainable cat breeds, largely thanks to their intelligence, curiosity, and eagerness to be involved in anything their people are doing. Where some cats might watch from a distance, an Oriental Shorthair often wants to be right in the middle of the action and is very open to learning new tricks and routines.

In terms of exercise, this is an active breed. They enjoy zooming around the house, climbing tall cat trees, and leaping onto high perches. Their long, muscular body is built for movement. To keep them healthy and content, it is important to provide several structured play sessions each day, especially for younger cats. Short, intense playtimes that mimic hunting can be very effective. For example, you can use a feather wand toy to imitate a bird or a small mouse, letting your cat stalk, chase, and finally “catch” it. This satisfies their natural predatory instincts in a safe way and helps burn off energy.

Many Oriental Shorthairs enjoy:

Feather wands and fishing rod style toys
Small balls or crinkly toys to chase
Tunnel toys to dash through and hide in
Climbing trees and wall mounted shelves

Because they are very people oriented, they tend to enjoy interactive play more than playing alone. Rotating toys regularly helps maintain interest. Puzzle feeders and treat balls are particularly useful for Oriental Shorthairs, as they combine mental challenge with the reward of food or treats. This can occupy them when you are busy or away from home for a few hours.

Training works best when it is positive and reward based. Clicker training can be particularly effective with this breed. Many Oriental Shorthairs quickly learn to associate the clicker sound with a treat and can be trained to:

Come when called by name
Sit or stand on cue
Give a high five or paw
Jump onto a specific perch or mat
Go into a carrier on command

Short, fun training sessions of a few minutes each are far more successful than long, repetitive ones. Because this breed is smart and easily bored, keep things varied and end on a success. Avoid punishment or scolding, as Oriental Shorthairs are sensitive and can become stressed or confused. Instead, redirect unwanted behavior and reward the behaviors you want to see more often.

Harness and leash training is another good option for some Oriental Shorthairs, especially those who show curiosity about the outdoors. Introduce the harness slowly indoors, with plenty of treats and praise, so the cat associates it with good experiences. Once comfortable, you can gradually move to short, supervised walks in a safe area such as a garden or quiet yard. Not all individuals will enjoy this, but many do, and it can be a valuable extra outlet for energy and curiosity.

If their exercise and training needs are not met, Oriental Shorthairs can become restless, vocal, and inventive in finding their own “entertainment.” This might include climbing onto kitchen counters, shredding paper, or investigating cupboards and drawers. A combination of vertical space, interactive toys, and regular playtime helps channel this energy into positive activities.

In multi cat households, play between cats can provide extra exercise, though human involvement is still important. With the right mix of stimulation, training, and affection, the Oriental Shorthair blossoms into a well mannered, interactive companion who feels like a true member of the family rather than a distant pet.

Health

The Oriental Shorthair is generally considered a healthy and robust breed, especially when bred responsibly and kept at a lean, muscular weight. However, as a close relative of the Siamese, they can share some of the same genetic tendencies and health concerns. Understanding these potential issues helps owners and breeders support the long term wellbeing of their cats.

One of the primary health considerations in Oriental Shorthairs is their heart. Some lines may be predisposed to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, often known as HCM, which is a condition where the heart muscle becomes thickened. Responsible breeders often screen their breeding cats with regular heart ultrasounds performed by veterinary cardiologists. For pet owners, it is wise to schedule routine veterinary checkups, listen for any heart murmurs, and follow up with imaging if recommended.

Another area of attention is dental health. The wedge shaped head and long jaw of the Oriental Shorthair can sometimes be associated with dental crowding or misalignment in certain individuals. Even in cats with normal dentition, tartar buildup and gum disease can develop if teeth are not cared for. Introducing tooth brushing with a cat safe toothpaste from a young age is ideal. If daily brushing proves difficult, aim for several times per week and consider professional dental cleanings as advised by your veterinarian.

Respiratory health is generally good, as the Oriental Shorthair does not have the shortened nose associated with brachycephalic breeds. However, because they often live very closely with their humans and may be more sensitive emotionally, stress can affect their immune system. A stable environment and prompt attention to any signs of respiratory infection, such as sneezing or eye discharge, are important.

Like many purebred cats, Oriental Shorthairs may be screened for certain genetic conditions depending on regional breeding practices and registry recommendations. Some lines may carry genes associated with progressive retinal atrophy or other inherited issues. Reputable breeders usually test their breeding cats where reliable tests exist, and they will be open to discussing the testing they perform. When choosing a kitten, asking about health screening is a sensible step.

Other considerations include joint health and body condition. While the breed is slender, it should never be bony. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. Excess weight puts strain on joints and the heart, and it may reduce the cat’s willingness to move and play. Oriental Shorthairs are naturally active, so a well balanced, high quality diet combined with daily exercise usually keeps them in good condition. Ask your veterinarian to help you assess body condition and recommend feeding amounts.

Typical lifespan for a well cared for Oriental Shorthair often ranges from the mid teens, with many reaching 15 to 18 years and occasionally even longer. Routine preventive care goes a long way in supporting this. Key elements include:

Regular vaccinations as advised by your vet
Annual or semiannual health checks, especially in older cats
Parasite prevention according to your region and lifestyle
Periodic bloodwork and urine checks from middle age onward

Some Oriental Shorthairs are more sensitive to cold due to their fine coat and low body fat, so keeping them warm and comfortable reduces stress and the risk of minor illnesses. Providing soft bedding in draft free areas and ensuring they have the option of a warmer spot, such as a heated pad made for pets, can make a big difference in their comfort.

By combining thoughtful breeding, proactive veterinary care, a suitable environment, and good nutrition, most Oriental Shorthairs enjoy long, active, and affectionate lives beside their families.

History & Origins

The Oriental Shorthair’s story is closely intertwined with that of the Siamese. To understand this breed, it helps to look briefly at the development of Siamese cats in Europe and North America. Siamese cats, with their pointed coats and striking blue eyes, gained popularity over the 19th and early 20th centuries. Breeders were captivated by their elegant structure and engaging personalities but also became curious about what would happen if you kept the same body type while expanding the range of colors and patterns.

In the mid 20th century, breeders in several countries began experimenting with crossing Siamese cats to solid colored and patterned shorthaired cats. The goal was to preserve the Siamese type and temperament while creating cats in new colors. Early breeding programs in countries such as the United Kingdom and later in mainland Europe and the United States slowly developed what would eventually be recognized as the Oriental Shorthair.

Initially, many of these cats were registered under names that reflected their color. For example, solid colored cats similar in structure to Siamese but lacking points were sometimes called Foreign Shorthairs in certain registries. As breeding programs became more organized and the range of colors and patterns expanded, cat fancier organizations began to recognize them as a distinct breed. The name Oriental Shorthair reflects their shared ancestry with oriental type breeds such as the Siamese, while the “Shorthair” part distinguishes them from their longhaired relatives.

Over time, different cat associations refined their breed standards, but they generally agreed on the key points. The Oriental Shorthair would have the same elegant shape as the Siamese, with a long, tubular body, wedge shaped head, large ears, and expressive eyes, but would be allowed in a very broad spectrum of colors and patterns. This liberated breeders to work creatively with coat genetics, which led to the huge diversity of appearances we see today.

The breed gained momentum during the latter half of the 20th century. Exhibitors and pet owners appreciated the combination of Siamese like personality with visually striking coats. As breeding programs across Europe and North America grew, Oriental Shorthairs began to appear more frequently at shows and in households looking for an active, talkative companion.

Today, the Oriental Shorthair is bred and shown in many cat associations around the world, often alongside its close relatives, including the Siamese and various other oriental type breeds. While they started as a show and companion breed, their role is very much that of a cherished family pet in modern times. They are not working cats in the traditional sense, but their intelligence and trainability make them perfect ambassadors for feline agility, clicker training demonstrations, and therapy cat work in some cases.

In many regions, the Oriental Shorthair has contributed to the development of related breeds as well, such as Oriental Longhairs and other oriental type varieties. Their genetic influence continues to be important in breeding programs that focus on health, temperament, and preserving the lithe elegance that defines oriental type cats.

Today’s Oriental Shorthair reflects decades of careful breeding and selection. Behind their modern, stylish appearance lies a story of breeders who fell in love with the Siamese body and mind and envisioned a cat that could wear almost any coat while remaining unmistakably oriental in character and shape.

Living with the Breed

Sharing your home with an Oriental Shorthair is rewarding, but it is also a commitment that requires time, attention, and a willingness to treat your cat as an involved member of the family. These cats do not thrive as background pets that are fed and then largely ignored. They are social, interactive, and emotionally sensitive. For the right home, this creates a deep bond and a very rich relationship.

Prospective owners should be prepared to spend daily quality time with their cat. This includes interactive play, training or puzzle sessions, and quiet companionship. Many Oriental Shorthairs want to sleep in the same room as their people and will often curl up under the covers or on a pillow. If you prefer a cat that keeps a greater distance or spends most of the day alone, this may be the wrong breed. On the other hand, if you enjoy a companion who follows you from room to room, helps you work at your desk, and meets you at the door, the Oriental Shorthair will feel like a soulmate.

In practical terms, you will need to budget for both initial and ongoing costs. Initial expenses often include:

Purchase price or adoption fee
Neutering or spaying if not already done
Microchipping and vaccinations
A sturdy, tall cat tree or climbing structure
Litter boxes, litter, food and water bowls
A carrier approved for travel
Toys, scratching posts, bedding, and grooming tools

Oriental Shorthairs benefit from robust vertical space. A tall cat tree with multiple platforms allows them to climb and survey their surroundings. Wall mounted shelves or bridges can further extend their playground and help them stay active indoors. Scratching posts made of sisal or similar material are essential. Providing several in key locations, such as near sleeping areas and doorways, encourages appropriate scratching and protects furniture.

Ongoing annual costs include high quality cat food, routine veterinary care, vaccinations, parasite prevention, insurance if you choose it, and the regular replacement of toys, scratching posts, and other supplies. Costs vary by region, but owners should plan for a consistent monthly budget that covers food and litter plus a yearly allowance for veterinary visits and any unexpected health issues. Pet insurance can help spread the cost of emergencies and is worth considering with active breeds who may be more prone to minor injuries from adventurous play.

Because the Oriental Shorthair is sensitive to cold, particularly in cooler climates or homes with hard flooring, it is kind to provide warm, soft resting spots. This might be a plush bed, a fleece blanket on the sofa, or a heated cat bed made for pets. Many Oriental Shorthairs love to burrow under blankets or snuggle closely with their humans for warmth and comfort.

Environmental enrichment is not optional for this breed. To keep them happy and prevent boredom:

Rotate toys so there is always something “new” to explore
Use puzzle feeders to make mealtimes more engaging
Place perches near windows so they can watch the outside world
Set aside time every day for active play

If you work long hours, consider whether another cat might be a good companion, provided introductions are managed carefully and personalities are compatible. Two compatible Oriental Shorthairs or an Oriental and another playful, friendly breed often keep each other entertained when humans are out.

Lastly, think about noise. This breed is vocal. Some individuals are soft spoken, but many like to chat at various times, including early mornings or evenings. Apartment dwellers may wish to consider whether neighbors can hear through thin walls. Gentle routines, sufficient play to reduce pent up energy, and predictable feeding times can help moderate vocal behavior, but you should expect a cat who expresses their opinions regularly.

Living with an Oriental Shorthair is like inviting a bright, agile, and affectionate presence into your life. They repay the effort you invest with loyalty, entertainment, and a deep bond that can last many years. For those who want a companion animal rather than a decorative pet, this breed offers a rich and engaging daily partnership.

Characteristics

Great with kids

High energy

Super smart

Easy to train

Characteristic	Value
Breed Type	Purebred
Child Friendly	4/5
Energy	5/5
Hair Shedding	3/5
Health	3/5
Intelligence	5/5
Grooming Needs	3/5
Learning Ability	5/5
Height	20 – 25 cm
Weight	2 – 5 kg
Life Expectancy	10 – 15 years

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Oriental Shorthairs really as vocal as people say?

They are typically very talkative and expressive, often using a wide range of meows and chirps to communicate. Many will follow their owners around, “commenting” on daily activities. If you prefer a quiet, independent cat, this breed may feel overwhelming, but for people who enjoy interaction, the chatter is part of their appeal.

What kind of personality do Oriental Shorthair cats have?

They are highly social, intelligent, and people oriented, often bonding closely with one or two family members. Many exhibit almost doglike behavior, learning tricks, playing fetch, and greeting visitors at the door. They generally dislike being left alone for long periods and thrive in busy, interactive homes.

How much grooming does an Oriental Shorthair need with its short coat?

Their coat is very short, sleek, and lies close to the body, so grooming needs are minimal. A quick weekly brushing or grooming mitt session is usually enough to remove loose hair and keep the coat shiny. They do shed, but far less than longhaired breeds, and most of the effort goes into nail trims and ear checks rather than coat care.

Are Oriental Shorthairs good cats for people with allergies?

They are not truly hypoallergenic, but some allergy sufferers find their short, fine coat easier to live with than heavy shedding breeds. They still produce the same allergy proteins in saliva and skin. Meeting an individual cat before adoption is important if allergies are a concern.

What health problems are Oriental Shorthair cats prone to?

They share ancestry with Siamese cats, so they can be predisposed to conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy, heart disease like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and some dental issues. Certain lines may also show a higher risk of asthma or respiratory sensitivity due to their long, narrow heads. Responsible breeders usually screen for these problems, but regular veterinary checkups remain essential.

Do Oriental Shorthairs need a lot of mental and physical exercise?

They are very active, athletic cats that crave both physical play and mental stimulation. Climbing trees, puzzle feeders, interactive toys, and regular play sessions help prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Many enjoy clicker training and will excel if their energy is channeled into structured activities.

What type of home environment suits an Oriental Shorthair best?

They do best in homes where people are around frequently and are willing to interact throughout the day. They usually cope well with respectful children and other pets, including other cats and even cat tolerant dogs, because they enjoy companionship. Very quiet homes with long working hours and little daily engagement can leave them stressed or lonely.

How affectionate are Oriental Shorthair cats with their owners?

They are typically very affectionate and thrive on physical closeness, often seeking laps, shoulders, and bed space. Many will insist on being part of every activity and can be demanding of attention. If you want a cat that is more decorative than interactive, this breed may feel too intense.

Is the slender, long body of the Oriental Shorthair a health concern?

The elegant, tubular body and long legs are normal for the breed and not a problem in themselves, provided the cat maintains good muscle tone and a healthy weight. However, their fine bone structure means they should be protected from rough handling or high impact falls. A lean body condition is ideal, as excess weight can strain their frame and increase joint and heart risks.

Can Oriental Shorthairs be left alone during the workday?

Many do poorly with long periods of isolation because they are highly social and easily bored. If you are out for full workdays, it helps to provide another friendly pet for company, plenty of vertical space, and interactive toys that can be used without human involvement. Regular, focused attention when you are home is important to keep them emotionally satisfied.