Asian (Oriental)

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The Asian (often called Oriental) Shorthair and Longhair are medium-sized, elegant cats closely related to the Siamese, known for their slender "tubular" bodies, large ears, and extremely social, talkative personalities. They come in a huge variety of colors and patterns and suit homes that can give them lots of interaction and playtime.

Origins and Recognition

Developed in the mid-20th century by crossing Siamese cats with other breeds to obtain non-pointed colors while keeping the Siamese type.
Recognized by major registries as Oriental/Oriental Shorthair and Oriental Longhair; in some European contexts they are grouped under the "Asian/Oriental" type.

Appearance and Coat

Body: Long, lean, and muscular with fine bone, long legs, and a whip-like tail; head is a triangular wedge with a straight profile and very large, flaring ears.

Coat:

Shorthair: Very short, glossy, close-lying coat.
Longhair: Semi-long, fine coat that drapes the body rather than forming a dense mane; usually needs only modest grooming.

Colors/patterns: Hundreds of combinations including solid, tabby, tortie, smoke, silver and particolor in many shades (white, black, chocolate, blue, red, cream, fawn, etc.).

Size, Life Span, and Health

Size: Typically medium; males around 3–5 kg, females slightly smaller.
Life span: Commonly about 8–15 years, with many living into the mid-teens with good care.
Health: Generally robust but may share Siamese-related risks such as some eye issues and hereditary kidney disease like polycystic kidney disease (PKD); reputable breeders screen breeding cats.

Temperament and Behavior

Personality: Highly active, intelligent, and people-oriented; many are very vocal and "chatty," often following their humans from room to room.
Social needs: Usually prefer living with people around most of the time and often enjoy other cats; they can become bored or stressed if left alone for long periods.
Activity level: Kitten-like energy through adulthood; they love climbing, jumping, and interactive games such as fetch or wand toys.

Care, Suitability, and Shorthair vs Longhair

Oriental/Asian Shorthair vs Longhair at a glance:

Aspect	Shorthair (Asian/Oriental)	Longhair (Asian/Oriental)
Coat length	Very short, sleek, close to body	Semi-long, fine, draping coat
Grooming	Minimal; weekly wipe/brush usually enough	Light regular brushing to prevent tangles
Look	More angular, sleek outline	Slightly softer silhouette due to feathering
Availability	Common in many registries/breeders	Less common/rarer in many countries

Daily life:

Need plenty of interactive play, climbing structures, and puzzle toys to channel energy and intelligence.
Families and other pets: Usually do well with respectful children and other friendly pets if properly introduced, but their intensity may overwhelm very shy animals.
Best for: People who want a very engaged, vocal, "in-your-face" companion and can offer time, mental stimulation, and affection; less ideal for households where cats are left alone most of the day.

Summary Table

Trait	Details
Origin	Mid-20th century, Siamese crosses
Other Names	Oriental Shorthair, Oriental Longhair
Size	Medium, males 3–5 kg, females slightly smaller
Build	Long, lean, muscular, fine-boned
Coat Types	Shorthair (sleek) or Longhair (semi-long)
Colors	Hundreds of combinations and patterns
Temperament	Active, intelligent, vocal, social, affectionate
Lifespan	8–15 years, often into mid-teens
Grooming	Shorthair: minimal; Longhair: light regular brushing

The Asian (Oriental) is an ideal companion for active households seeking an extremely social, vocal, and interactive cat that thrives on human companionship and mental stimulation.