ORIENTAL CATS

The Oriental breed in short is a non-pointed Siamese. These elegant and elongated cats of many colours and patterns share the Siamese build and personality. This has become a popular breed in both the shorthair and longhair versions.

Description

The Orientals share the svelte body shape of modern Siamese. The body is slender and elongated, with tall legs and a long tail. The wedged head shape is complemented by long large ears and large almond-shaped eyes. Orientals come in virtually every coat colour and pattern. Solid Orientals are quite impressive cats, with dazzling black, blue or white coats, or any other solid variation. Tabbies are also available in the various tabby patterns and colours. In recent years, bi-color Orientals have entered the show ring and become quite popular.

 Eye colour can vary and should be consistent with coat pattern and colour. Only white Orientals can have blue eyes. Orientals can be either shorthaired or longhaired. Shorthairs have smooth close-lying coat that needs very little grooming. Longhairs have silky semi-long coat that does not mat easily and is relatively easy to groom. The term "Oriental" encompasses all the cats with a Siamese body shape that are not "pointed". Orientals have much to offer as pets. Sassy and sleek, the Oriental is certainly a cat with mystique.

Characteristics and Temperament

Orientals are inquisitive cats that need plenty of attention. Their character is identical to their Siamese relatives in that they are quite demanding cats, very active and highly vocal.

These elegant, svelte cats remain playful, spirited and loyal well beyond their youth.

Special Requirements

Oriental cats do not require special grooming, other than a weekly brushing to remove dead hair. These are active cats that need to remain so throughout their lives, in order to maintain the slender body shape.

Oriental cats that do not get enough exercise, may gain weight and lose the unique body shape. This can be changed with daily play sessions and a balanced diet.