Oriental
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| Size: | Small to Medium |
| Lifespan: | Medium (8 to 12 years) |
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If you decide to get an Oriental, you will definitely be taking on another full-time family member. This pointy-eared, beautifully sleek (yet sturdily built) breed wants to be a part of all you do, and won't let you forget its presence-whether by greeting you excitedly at the door, or climbing into your lap to cuddle. They have a great deal of energy, but also much love to give, so make sure you have the time to give it in return. If left alone for too long, Orientals may become too curious and mischievous for their own good. They are relatively new to the cat world, as breeders began experimenting with the Siamese (the Oriental parent breed) in the 1960s, looking to create a similar cat with a wider range of coat colors. They got what they were looking for, as Orientals come in over 300 colors and coat patterns, ranging from solid, to tabby, to bi-color!
While they may demand a great deal of attention, Oriental Shorthairs don't require much when it comes to grooming. In fact, they may have one of the easiest upkeeps of all the breeds; their glossy, single-layer coat requires only an occasional brushing to remove dead or loose hairs. Dental problems, such as gingivitis or tartar buildup, are not uncommon in Oriental Cats, so be sure to get their teeth regularly checked. As always, check with your vet with any other questions you have about the health or care of your cat, and be sure to keep up with regular vaccinations.
For more information about Oriental cat ownership and care, check out the Cat Fanciers' Association.
