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Science & Nature • Cat Breeds

Oriental Shorthair

The Oriental Shorthair is a domestic cat breed closely related to the Siamese.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Oriental Shorthair is a domestic cat breed closely related to the Siamese. It is known for its slender body, large ears, and exceptionally wide range of coat colours and patterns. The breed is social, vocal, and affectionate, and was developed in England in the 1950s from Siamese lines and other breeds.

History

The Oriental Shorthair was developed in England in the 1950s as breeders expanded Siamese-type cats into non-pointed colour varieties. Sources describe it as a man-made or intentionally developed breed derived from Siamese lines and other shorthaired breeds.

Appearance

The breed has a long, elegant, muscular body, a triangular head, large ears, and almond-shaped eyes. Its short, close-lying coat appears in a very large range of colours and patterns.

Temperament

Oriental Shorthairs are typically described as intelligent, affectionate, active, and highly vocal. They are known for seeking attention and often dislike being left alone for long periods.

Health

Breed-related health concerns reported by sources include progressive retinal atrophy, bladder stones, and amyloidosis. As with many pedigree cats, specific risks can vary by line and breeding practices.

Key facts

  • The breed is a close relative of the Siamese and shares its modern head and body type.
  • Oriental Shorthairs are distinguished by their many coat colours and patterns, including solids, tabbies, smokes, and shadings.
  • They are widely described as highly social, talkative cats that prefer frequent human interaction.
  • The breed was developed in England in the 1950s through crosses involving Siamese cats and other breeds.
  • Commonly noted inherited health concerns include progressive retinal atrophy and amyloidosis.
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Canadian context

Oriental Shorthairs are kept in Canada as companion cats and may be registered or shown through international cat associations used by Canadian breeders and owners.

Frequently asked questions

What is an Oriental Shorthair?
A domestic cat breed closely related to the Siamese, known for its slender build, large ears, and wide range of coat colours and patterns.
Where did the breed come from?
It was developed in England in the 1950s by breeders working with Siamese cats and other breeds to expand colour variety.
Why is it called the “rainbow cat”?
Because the breed comes in an exceptionally large number of recognised coat colours and patterns.
Are Oriental Shorthairs vocal?
Yes. They are commonly described as talkative and attention-seeking, similar to Siamese cats.
What health issues are associated with the breed?
Reported concerns include progressive retinal atrophy, amyloidosis, and bladder stones.

References

  1. The Spruce Pets — https://www.thesprucepets.com/oriental-shorthair-cat-breed-profile-4774945
    Supports: Breed origin in England; personality; coat variety; health concerns; general description.
  2. The International Cat Association (TICA) — https://tica.org/breed/oriental-shorthair/
    Supports: Breed group; relationship to Siamese; coat variety; temperament.
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oriental_Shorthair
    Supports: General breed description and relationship to the Siamese.
  4. BioGuard Labs — https://www.bioguardlabs.com/breed-related-disease-oriental-shorthair/
    Supports: Breed development in post-war England; hereditary health risks.
  5. Chewy — https://www.chewy.com/education/cat-breeds/oriental-shorthair
    Supports: Temperament, coat variety, lifespan, and breed overview.