United States and United Kingdom, from about 1948; bred from Siamese crossed with other shorthairs (notably a red tabby American Shorthair) to add new point colours234
what they are likeColorpoint Shorthair temperament
Much like its Siamese relatives: chatty, clever and eager to be involved in everything. It gives a lot of affection and asks for plenty of attention in return, and many get along very well with other cats. It also has a mind of its own.31
how to spot oneColorpoint Shorthair coat and colours
short, fine, glossy close-lying coat
A sleek, refined cat of medium size, all long lines, with a long tapering wedge-shaped head, large pointed ears, vivid blue almond eyes, a slender neck and a long thin tail. The short coat is fine and shiny and lies flat, with a light body and darker colour on the face, ears, legs and tail.312
Coloursred pointcream pointlynx (tabby) points in seal, chocolate, blue, lilac, red and creamtortie points in seal, chocolate, blue-cream and lilac-creamtortie-lynx points32
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Colorpoint Shorthair. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayDaily playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
how busy a day looksColorpoint Shorthair exercise needs
High. Athletic and inventive, loves heights and needs daily play; a scrunched-up paper ball can be as popular as a bought toy.31
the hands-on bitsColorpoint Shorthair grooming and care
Very little needed; stroking with damp hands lifts loose hair, and many enjoy a brush as bonding time.31
where they are happiestColorpoint Shorthair at home
Indoor home with cat trees and perches for climbing.1
who they like aroundColorpoint Shorthair with people and other pets
Needs daily interaction and company; often bonds closely with other cats.31
where it all beganColorpoint Shorthair history
Around 1948 breeders in the US and Britain wanted a Siamese-type cat in red, so they crossed Siamese with other shorthairs, including a red tabby American Shorthair. Red, cream and tortie points came first, gained CFA championship status in 1964, and lynx points followed, with all lynx and tortie colours in place by 1969.23
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
The CFA standard lists 16 point colours, split into solid, lynx and parti-colour classes.3
2
Lynx-point cats often look as if they are wearing eyeliner because their tabby markings frame the eyes.3
3
In the CFA it is its own breed, while TICA, GCCF and FIFe show the same colours as Siamese.2
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed name comes from the fact that these cats are identical in type to the Siamese but have a wider palette of point colors, hence 'Colorpoint Shorthair'.5
I woke up and gave my human a gentle head-butt to say good morning. After a quick snack, I chatted about my dreams while they got ready. Then I found a crumpled paper ball and batted it around the room, pouncing with joy. Later, I climbed to the top of the bookshelf for a bird's-eye view. When my human sat down to read, I curled up on their lap, purring. In the afternoon, I played hide-and-seek with my cat friend. Evening meant more cuddles and a little conversation. I always have a lot to say! Life is best when I'm involved.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
CFA
Accepted for registration in the late 1950s; championship status 19643
Not a separate breed; these colours are shown within Siamese2
homemade and simpleTreats they will love
Colorpoint Shorthair tip
Colorpoint Shorthairs have a high metabolism and lean build, so keep treats to a minimum and use them only as rewards during play. Because they are prone to dental disease and pancreatitis, avoid sugary or high-fat treats and ask your vet for dental-friendly options.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Colorpoint Shorthair, and at what times?
Feeding schedules vary by age, activity and food type. Your vet or breeder can give you a routine that suits your cat best. Most adult cats do well with two meals a day.
What should a Colorpoint Shorthair eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality balanced cat food is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and xylitol. Always check with your vet for specific dietary needs.6
Does a Colorpoint Shorthair need baths?
Very rarely. Their short, fine coat stays clean easily. A bath is only needed if they get very dirty or sticky, and stroking with damp hands can help lift loose hair.317
How often does a Colorpoint Shorthair need brushing?
Once a week is plenty, and many enjoy it as bonding time. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests weekly brushing. Their short coat needs very little maintenance.317Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Colorpoint Shorthair's claws, and how often?
Trim every two to three weeks, using proper cat nail clippers. Start with just one or two claws per session to build trust. Pet Wiki's plan suggests every 21 days.7Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Colorpoint Shorthair need?
Daily play is essential for this athletic, clever cat. They love heights and inventing games, even with a simple paper ball. Pet Wiki recommends daily play sessions.31Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Colorpoint Shorthair's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth regularly, ideally daily, as Pet Wiki suggests every two days. For ears, check weekly and gently clean with a vet-recommended solution if needed. Ask your vet for the best routine. Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Colorpoint Shorthair live?
They typically live between 8 and 12 years. With good care, many enjoy a long, happy life indoors.1
Is a Colorpoint Shorthair good with children and other pets?
Yes, they often get along very well with other cats and are affectionate and chatty. With proper introduction, they can also be wonderful with respectful children.31
Can a Colorpoint Shorthair be left alone?
They need daily interaction and company, so they are not suited to being left alone for long periods. They bond closely and thrive with attention or another cat friend.31
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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