Oriental Cat Breed Facts and Information

Coat & Grooming: The Oriental comes in either a short or longhaired variety, with both requiring a weekly brushing.

Shedding: The Oriental sheds an average amount.

Personality: "These cats are very friendly and usually get along with other people and animals,” said Sara Ochoa, a veterinarian at Whitehouse Veterinary Hospital in Texas. “They would make a great friend and companion for your other pets.”

Temperament & Behavior: Wherever you go, you can expect to find your Oriental cat right beside you. They are smart, fun loving and highly attached to their people.

Behavior with Kids: The Oriental makes the perfect companion for kids, since they love to play and are highly adaptable to different situations.

Life span: The typical Oriental cat lives between 10 and 15 years.

Inherited Health Issues: As with all breeds, certain health conditions can occur in the Oriental at an increased frequency or due to a genetic predisposition. Responsible breeders typically perform a number of genetic and screening tests prior to breeding in order to decrease the incidence of certain conditions within the breed. These conditions may include, but are not limited to, the following: Cutaneous mast cell tumors, Urolithiasis (struvites) and longer gestation length.

Preventive Care: As Oriental cats are prone to cutaneous mast cell tumors, it is important to have a veterinarian examine any skin tumors that you find. Regular urine tests should be considered due to this breed's increased risk for crystal/stone formation in the urinary tract. As with all other cat breeds, it is important to ensure your cat is on an age appropriate diet and is not being fed too much. Regular dental cleanings under anesthesia help prevent periodontal disease.

It is important to ensure that you feed an age appropriate diet and ensure that your cat is not being fed an excess amount of calories per day.

Daily Consumption: Daily consumption for an adult Oriental is 1/3 - 1/2 cup.

Energy Level: Frisky, energetic breed that is always ready for action

Exercise: Orientals are a people-pleasing breed that requires constant attention to stay happy. They are inquisitive and smart, so you shouldn’t be surprised to find them on top of the refrigerator (where you’ve hidden their favorite toy) or in your purse. They have been known to carry on a conversation with their people, as well, using their distinctive voice to let you know when they are either happy or sad.

“Many times, these cats will find one person in the house and attach themselves to that person as their constant companion,” said Ochoa. “Orientals are great cats for single people.”

The Oriental is a natural-born athlete that requires a lot of exercise. They love to run, jump and chase, but are happy to follow up strenuous bouts of exercise with snuggles on your lap. They are also a very intelligent breed, and enjoy activities that work their mind.

Climate: Whether short or long haired, the Oriental prefers warmer temps.