Siamese or Oriental?
They look alike, come from the same breed family, and share many traits. But a Siamese and an Oriental Shorthair are indeed two different breeds.
Related to each other,
but not the same.
The Siamese and the Oriental Shorthair share a common history. Over the years they were developed from the same Siamese base, making them very similar in build, character, and behaviour.
Yet they are two separate breeds. The biggest difference lies mainly in the colour and appearance of the coat and eyes. There are also of course many individual differences in character within both breeds.
Breed
Siamese
You can recognise the classic Siamese by, among other things, the distinct colour points and deep blue eyes.
Breed
Oriental Shorthair
The Oriental Shorthair has the same elegant build but comes in an enormous variety of colours and patterns.
Two breeds,
one big cat family.
Siamese
Elegant, outspoken and recognisable by the colour points and blue eyes.
- Blue eyes
- Colour points on face, ears, paws and tail
- Slim and elegant body
- Very social and people-oriented
- Known for their distinct voice and 'talking' behaviour
Oriental Shorthair
The same elegant look and personality, but with a much wider variety of colours and patterns.
- Many different coat colours and patterns
- Usually green eyes, depending on the colour
- Slim, muscular and elegant body
- Very social and curious
- Like the Siamese, often quite vocal
Both a little bit opinionated.
Both Siamese and Oriental Shorthairs are known as social, intelligent and curious cats. They love to be involved in what's happening around them and are often quite communicative.
Of course every cat has their own personality. One will talk your ear off, while another prefers to quietly come and sit beside you.
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