What is the difference between a American Shorthair and a Oriental Short Hair?

The American Shorthair is 8–12 lbs sized while the Oriental Short Hair is 5–10 lbs sized. They differ in size (8–12 lbs vs 5–10 lbs), lifespan (15–20 years vs 12–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, American Shorthair or Oriental Short Hair?

American Shorthair is generally good with kids. Oriental Short Hair is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, American Shorthair or Oriental Short Hair?

The American Shorthair has a lifespan of 15–20 years while the Oriental Short Hair has a lifespan of 12–15 years.

American Shorthair vs Oriental Short Hair — Breed Comparison

About the American Shorthair

The American Shorthair descends from European cats brought to North America on ships like the Mayflower, where they earned their keep as skilled mousers. This medium-to-large breed weighs 8–15 pounds and boasts a powerful, well-proportioned build with a broad chest. Their dense, short coat comes in over 80 recognized colors and patterns, with the classic silver tabby being the most iconic.

Temperament & Personality

American Shorthairs are easygoing, adaptable cats that strike a perfect balance between playful and laid-back. They are patient and gentle with children, coexist peacefully with other pets, and are content to entertain themselves when the family is busy. Their calm, even temperament and low-maintenance nature have made them one of America's most popular breeds for decades.

Pros

Exceptionally healthy breed with a lifespan of 15–20 years
Low-maintenance coat that rarely mats or tangles
Independent enough to handle owners' work schedules without anxiety
Natural mouser — helps keep the home pest-free

Cons

Prone to obesity if diet and exercise are not carefully managed
Can be reserved with strangers and may take time to warm up
Not as interactive or trainable as more active breeds
Seasonal shedding can be heavy despite the short coat

Ready to welcome an American Shorthair into your home? Browse available cats for adoption on Puplister.

About the Oriental Short Hair

The Oriental Shorthair emerged in the 1950s and 1960s when British breeders crossed Siamese cats with Russian Blues, British Shorthairs, and Abyssinians to create a Siamese-type cat in a rainbow of non-pointed colors. Sleek and angular at 6–12 pounds, this breed has a wedge-shaped head, strikingly large ears, vivid green eyes (or blue in white coats), and a short, fine, glossy coat in over 300 color-and-pattern combinations — more than any other cat breed.

Temperament & Personality

Oriental Shorthairs are among the most extroverted and opinionated cats in existence — they will tell you exactly what they think in a loud, distinctive voice. Fiercely loyal, they bond tightly to their humans and follow them everywhere, including into the shower. They are athletic, curious, and endlessly entertaining, making them ideal for active households with children and other social pets.

Pros

Incredible coat variety — virtually every color and pattern available
Minimal grooming needs thanks to the short, close-lying coat
Highly intelligent and trainable — enjoys puzzle feeders and learning tricks
Deeply loyal and affectionate with family members

Cons

One of the most vocal cat breeds — constant meowing can be overwhelming
Severe separation anxiety when left alone — does best with a companion cat
Prone to dental issues, heart disease, and amyloidosis
Demands constant attention and can become destructive if under-stimulated

Think you can keep up with this talkative, spirited feline? Search for Oriental Shorthair cats on Puplister and meet your new best friend.

American Shorthair vs Oriental Short Hair