Also called Angora (former GCCF name), Ornamental (nickname)
Recognised breedShort profile
From Developed in the United Kingdom and United States from the Oriental Shorthair programme that began in 1950s England; foundation stock from the Siamese, originally from Thailand.123
semi-long, fine, silky coat without a woolly undercoat
A slender, elegant cat built like a dancer, with fine bones, a long tubular body, a long wedge-shaped head and large ears. Its medium-length silky coat lies close and drapes over the body, ending in a plumed tail; some have ear tufts.321
Colourshundreds of colours and patterns: solids, tabbies, tortoiseshells, silver and smoke variations, and bicolours13
Personality what they are like
An intelligent, sociable and talkative cat that loves attention and joins in with whatever its family is doing. It stays playful throughout life and bonds closely with its people.132
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. A natural athlete that likes fetching, climbing and feline agility; needs toys and climbing places.1
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush about once a week; the silky coat rarely tangles and sheds little. Weekly nail trims, ear checks and regular tooth brushing round out the routine.132
Home where they are happiest
A curious climber that benefits from cat trees, shelves and other enrichment.1
Company who they like around
Thrives on company and generally does better in a home with another cat than alone.12
The story where it all began
Oriental cats grew out of 1950s British breeding in which Siamese were crossed with Russian Blues, British Shorthairs, Abyssinians and domestic cats to create Siamese-type cats without the pointed pattern. These Orientals reached the United States in the 1970s, and the longhaired version, carrying a pair of recessive longhair genes, was accepted by the CFA as a division of the Oriental.134
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Its huge colour range earned the Oriental family the nickname 'Ornamentals'.1
2
In 2011 a white Oriental Longhair named Harry won a lookalike contest against news anchor Anderson Cooper on his talk show.1
3
In Britain the breed used to be called the Angora.2
4
Many Oriental Longhairs take part in feline agility and enjoy playing fetch.1
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed was formerly known as the British Angora before being renamed in 2002 by British cat fanciers to avoid confusion with the Turkish Angora. It is also called the Javanese or Mandarin in some countries.5
I woke my human with a soft meow and a paw tap. After breakfast, I chased a toy mouse through the hallway, skidding on the rug. Then I joined the morning meeting by walking across the keyboard. Later, I lounged on the windowsill, watching birds and chatting about them. In the afternoon, I fetched a crumpled paper ball until my human tired out. Now I'm draped over a shoulder, purring. Every day is an adventure when you're this curious.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
CFA
Oriental Longhairs accepted 1988, when the breed name became simply 'Oriental'; shown as a separate longhair division (Wikipedia gives CFA recognition as 1995)3
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
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Oriental Longhair, and at what times?
Feeding frequency and times depend on your Oriental Longhair's age, health, and lifestyle. Please ask your vet for a personalized feeding schedule.
What should an Oriental Longhair eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality cat food recommended by your vet. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as listed by the ASPCA.6
Does an Oriental Longhair need baths?
Oriental Longhairs rarely need baths because their silky coat stays clean. Bathe only if they get very dirty or sticky, following general cat care advice.7
How often does an Oriental Longhair need brushing?
Brush your Oriental Longhair at least once a week; Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every two days and more often during shedding. Their silky coat rarely tangles.132Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim an Oriental Longhair's claws, and how often?
The breed information recommends weekly nail trims, while Furry Diary's starting plan suggests every three weeks. For a calm experience, trim a few claws at a time and ask your vet for guidance.1327Pet Wiki plan
How much play does an Oriental Longhair need?
Oriental Longhairs have high activity needs and love fetching, climbing, and agility. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends daily play sessions with toys and climbing structures.1Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after an Oriental Longhair's teeth and ears?
Brush your Oriental Longhair's teeth regularly; Furry Diary's starting plan suggests every two days, with daily brushing ideal. Check ears weekly for dirt or redness, and ask your vet for proper cleaning techniques.132Pet Wiki plan
How long does an Oriental Longhair live?
Oriental Longhairs typically live between 12 and 15 years.2
Is an Oriental Longhair good with children and other pets?
This sociable and affectionate cat usually gets along well with children and other pets if introduced properly. They thrive with company, especially another cat.12
Can an Oriental Longhair be left alone?
Oriental Longhairs are very social and prefer not to be left alone for long periods. They do best with a feline companion or plenty of attention when you're home.12
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.
Oriental Shorthair
Balinese
Javanese
Siamese