What is the difference between a Oriental Short Hair and a Pixie-Bob?

The Oriental Short Hair is 5–10 lbs sized while the Pixie-Bob is 8–17 lbs sized. They differ in size (5–10 lbs vs 8–17 lbs), lifespan (12–15 years vs 13–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Oriental Short Hair or Pixie-Bob?

Oriental Short Hair is generally good with kids. Pixie-Bob is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Oriental Short Hair or Pixie-Bob?

The Oriental Short Hair has a lifespan of 12–15 years while the Pixie-Bob has a lifespan of 13–15 years.

Oriental Short Hair vs Pixie-Bob — Breed Comparison

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.

About the Pixie-Bob

The Pixie-Bob was developed in the Pacific Northwest of the United States beginning in 1985, bred to resemble the North American coastal bobcat. This large, muscular cat weighs 8–17 pounds — with males often tipping the scales on the higher end — and features a broad, pear-shaped head, hooded eyes, and a naturally short or bobbed tail ranging from two to six inches. Their coat is brown spotted tabby, either short or longhaired, with heavy ticking and a woolly texture.

Temperament & Personality

Pixie-Bobs are known for their devoted, dog-like personalities — they follow their owners everywhere, learn to walk on a leash, and some will even play fetch. Despite their wild appearance, they are gentle and patient, making them excellent family cats. They tend to chirp and chatter rather than meow and are generally quieter than many breeds.

Pros

Wild, bobcat-like appearance with a gentle, domestic temperament
Dog-like loyalty — follows owners, learns commands, walks on a leash
Polydactylism is common and accepted in the breed, adding to their unique charm
Calm and patient with children and other household pets

Cons

Large size and high food requirements increase ownership costs
Some lines carry hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) risk
Can be territorial with unfamiliar cats introduced into the home
Thick coat — especially the longhaired variety — sheds heavily and needs regular brushing

Looking for a gentle giant with a wild side? Find Pixie-Bob cats ready for adoption on Puplister and bring home your own little bobcat.

Oriental Short Hair vs Pixie-Bob