Oriental cats are slender, long and stylized cats like their other group members (Siamese and Balinese). They love their people and are highly opinionated and will tell you exactly what they think in a loud and raspy voice. Orientals are available in two coat lengths-shorthair and longhair. What makes them distinct from rest of their group is the wide array of colors and sleek coat they are available in.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: United States
Used for: Companion
Average Life Span: 10-15 years
Color: Traditional colors and patterns
Coat: Fine and short
Average Height: Medium
Average Weight: 5-10 pounds
History and Domestication
Orientals can also be described as a colored version of the ‘black and white’ Siamese. These cats were developed by crossing Siamese with other cat breeds. The main idea was to widen the gene pool of the Siamese in England which had been devastated during World War II. Siamese cats were crossed with Abyssinian, Russian Blue and British Shorthairs to produce Siamese pointed kittens. These kittens were again crossed with Siamese and as a result breeders now had cats that looked like the Siamese but in a variety of patterns and colors.
Standard Physical Characteristics
Like other members of their founding group, Orientals are long, sleek and slender and give away a graceful and elegant impression. Despite their long and lean body, they are excellent athletes with the look of a runner or a dancer. They are not particularly large but are long and tall. The triangular head is long, wedge-shaped and tapers towards the muzzle. The almond-shaped eyes are set at an angle following the wedge and are generally preferred in green color. The strikingly large ears are wide at the base. They have a long and tubular body and fine bones.
Care, Grooming and Health
The coat is fine and short and can be easily cared for. Comb it once a week with a stainless steel comb to remove dead hair. Rub with a soft cloth afterwards to add shine. Brush their teeth regularly to avoid periodontal diseases. Also check eyes and ears for any signs of infection. Keep their litter box clean.
Problems that can affect the Siamese may also affect Orientals and these include asthma, lymphoma, crossed eye and progressive retinal atrophy.
Living Conditions
Orientals are social and active cats and are suited for families with kids and cat-friendly dogs. They love playing fetch and retrieving.
Temperament
They may look a little different than Siamese but both of them have practically the same temperament. Orientals are opinionated and talkative and will tell you what they think in a loud voice. They are very fond of their people and want to be included in everything you do whether it is cooking or reading. While you sit, they will happily climb into your lap. These are active and intelligent cats and love playing fetch and retrieving and will often amuse themselves for hours. They thrive on attention and usually choose one person from their family to be their companion.
