Oriental Cat Characteristics

Oriental cat ancestors originated in southeast Asia. Today's contemporary Orientals emerged from breeders in Britain and the United States in the 1950s and '60s, both using Siamese cats in exotic crosses. British breeders crossed the Siamese with Russian Blues and Domestic Shorthairs, while American breeders chose Abyssinians and Domestic Shorthairs. Both breeds are classified today as Orientals. Oriental cats boast loud meows and high energy, and make clever, devoted and loving pets.

  1. Lean and Athletic Builds

    • Siamese cats are precursors to the Oriental breed.

      The Oriental cat has a striking carriage. Sleek and lanky, Orientals usually have compact, strong builds. Their bodies are typically long and smooth, with a long tail line. The long lines of the Oriental cat's body may be easier to see with short-haired varieties; the finer points of an Oriental cat's physique may be hidden under medium or long hair.

    Prominent Ears

    • Oriental cats tend to have large, prominent and triangular ears. A characteristic fringe of fur tufting from the inner ears to the outside is not unusual. The ears sit atop triangular, wedge-shaped heads and offset the breed's distinctive almond-shaped eyes. These features render the Oriental cat a strikingly attractive feline, and they are renowned for their beauty among cat fanciers.

    Long or Short Hair

    • At one time all Orientals had short hair, though they were later crossbred with longer-haired breeds to display various hair lengths (short, medium and long-haired). Their fur can be one of any number of solid colors or can display various patterns, including tortoiseshell or tabby.

    High Vocalization

    • Oriental cats are typically quite vocal, meowing loudly, poignantly and more often than other cat breeds. Many Orientals long for attention and vocalize loudly if they don't receive it quickly enough. Oriental cats may bother other household pets or cause disturbances if left unattended for long periods of time, Oriental cats prefer the company of their families, but their high energy and loud meows may annoy other pets. Although, Petquery contends that many Oriental cat owners find the breed's vocal traits endearing.