A new breed with a long history, this cat is one that thrives on love and affection…

Everyone looks great in designer jeans. In the case of the Oriental Shorthair, though, it is designer genes that make it such an eye-catching and popular cat – and as Cat Diaries discovered, it is a relatively new breed with an ancient history.

Origins
Officially recognised as a breed in the 1950s, the Oriental Shorthair has its roots in the Siamese breed originating in Siam (which is now Thailand). British breeders who liked the look of the Siamese but wanted a greater variety of colours began cross-breeding the Siamese with domestic shorthairs such as the Russian Blue, Abyssinian and British Shorthair. The result was a cat that was Siamese in body shape and facial features, but with such a wide variation of colours that it earned the nickname ‘Ornamental’.

Appearance
While the Oriental Shorthair is similar in appearance to the Siamese, it can come in over 300 colour and pattern variations. The Oriental Shorthair has a medium build and triangular face and head with large ears and slanted almond eyes. The hair is much softer and thicker than on many other shorthaired breeds, although it remains close to the body.

Temperament
Like the Siamese, the Oriental Shorthair is a brilliant family pet, as it is both people-oriented and affectionate. The Oriental Shorthair craves attention and is both loyal and vocal about its love for humans, often ‘calling’ to owners throughout the house and having ‘conversations’ when spoken to. Many Oriental Shorthair owners report them as being almost doglike in their loyalty and need for company.

The Oriental Shorthair is both aesthetically pleasing and social, making it a wonderful addition to any family. Be prepared to lavish affection on it, however, as the Oriental Shorthair is notorious for loving a good cuddle on the couch!

[IMAGE SOURCE www.pictures-of-cats.org; www.mainecoonbreeders.com]