Energy & Playfulness | |
Affection & Handling | |
Likes To Be Alone | |
Vocal | |
Intelligence | |
Health | |
Grooming & Shedding | |
Kid Friendly | |
Other Pets |
Size | Eye Color | Fur |
|---|---|---|
Male: 8-12lbs Female: <8lbs | Blue, Green, Odd-eyed | Medium Smooth, Straight |
Colors | Patttern | Longevity |
|---|---|---|
White, Blue, Ebony, Cream, Red, Brown, Frost, Platinum, Fawn, Chocolate, Chestnut, Cinnamon, Lavender, Champagne, Sealv | Solid Color, Tortoiseshell, Bicolor, Tricolor/Calico, Tabby, Ticking, Smoke, Shaded, Points | 8-12 Years |
History
After WWII the breeding gene pool of many cats were devastated. The Oriental was created to broaden the Siamese breed by crossing it with Russian Blue, British Shorthairs and other domestic shorthairs. The goal was a Siamese with a variety of colors and variations. This was able to happen in just a few short generations of breeding.
The cats that were non pointed became the basis of a new breed. The Oriental. As they became introduced to the United States, there were more crosses with American Shorthairs. As a result, orientals have over 300 different colors and patterns.
Personality
The Oriental is basically identical to the Siamese cat and as a results they are extremely fond of their owners. This is a breed that loves to watch everything you’re doing and follow you throughout the house, watching every move you make. If you’re on the sofa, your Oriental will be right there with you.
If you’re in the bathroom, your Oriental will be right there with you. If you’re sleeping, the Oriental will probably try and join you. Although he’ll want to be involved in basically every action you’re doing, the Oriental isn’t nearly as talkative as his cousin the Siamese, but definitely not lacking in his ability to let you know how he feels. Ignore a Oriental and you will be promptly told that you need to pay attention and engage with him.
The Oriental is a very smart cat that has no problem letting your visitors know what is on their mind. Their intelligence and athleticism means that you will want to keep them busy with puzzles and toys that challenge them to use problem solving skills. Oriental enjoy playing fetch and they can be taught to walk on leashes with some time and patience. It’s recommended that you have lots of high places and cat trees for him to climb. They enjoy a good climb.
It would be wise to always leave an assortment of toys at the disposal of your Oriental. Especially if you are a working pet owner and plan to be gone for 8-10 hours a day. Without toys, the Oriental will find a way to get into anything to keep themselves entertained. Unless you enjoy having all of your toilet paper rolls emptied onto the floor, you’ll want to make sure you keep interactive toys available. The Oriental is a chatty Kathy, but many owners enjoy spending time with breeds that require lots of social interaction.
This isn’t to say that you can’t leave a Oriental alone. They are perfectly fine being alone for hours on end as long as they have something or even another cat friend to keep them entertained. Many Oriental owners recommend that they have a friend. This is a great breed if you’re looking for a cat that craves attention and enjoys sharing the affection.
Health
Any cat can have ailments that are related to any cat regardless of breed. It's important to always consult with your breeder about genetic concerns. The Oriental is a generally healthy cat, but here are some health concerns that have been noted in this breed:
Care
The short, fine coat of the Oriental Shorthair is easily cared for. Comb it every couple of weeks with a stainless steel comb or soft bristle brush to remove dead hair, then polish it with a soft cloth to make it shine.
The ears are another place where dirt can build up. Make sure to use cotton balls with warm water and gently scrub the interior of theirs ears.
Children And Other Pets
The active and social Oriental is a perfect choice for families with children and cat-friendly dogs. He will play fetch as well as any retriever, learns tricks easily and loves the attention he receives from children who treat him politely and with respect. He gets along with cats and dogs who respect his authority. Always introduce pets slowly and in controlled circumstances to ensure that they learn to get along together.
