What is the difference between a Oriental Short Hair and a Siamese?

The Oriental Short Hair is 5–10 lbs sized while the Siamese is 6–14 lbs sized. They differ in size (5–10 lbs vs 6–14 lbs), lifespan (12–15 years vs 12–20 years), and care requirements.

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

Oriental Short Hair is generally good with kids. Siamese is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Oriental Short Hair or Siamese?

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

Oriental Short Hair vs Siamese — 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

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About the Siamese

The Siamese is one of the most iconic and ancient cat breeds, originating in the kingdom of Siam (now Thailand) and first documented in the Tamra Maew ("The Cat-Book Poems") dating to the 14th century. This sleek, muscular cat weighs 6–14 pounds and is immediately recognizable by its striking colorpoint pattern — a pale cream or fawn body with darker coloring on the face, ears, paws, and tail. The four traditional point colors are seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac, all paired with vivid sapphire-blue almond-shaped eyes.

Temperament & Personality

Siamese cats are among the most vocal and opinionated cats in the world — they will narrate their day in a loud, distinctive raspy voice and expect you to listen. They are fiercely loyal, deeply social, and form intense bonds with their owners, often becoming a one-person cat. Intelligent and active, they need constant stimulation and do best with a companion — whether human, feline, or canine.

Pros

Strikingly beautiful with mesmerizing blue eyes and elegant lines
Exceptionally intelligent — can learn tricks, walk on a leash, and solve puzzle toys
Deeply bonded and loyal to their chosen person
Short, fine coat requires almost no grooming

Cons

Extremely vocal — constant loud meowing is not for everyone
Prone to severe separation anxiety and can become destructive when left alone
Susceptible to amyloidosis, asthma, progressive retinal atrophy, and crossed eyes
Demanding of attention — may become jealous of other pets or family members

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Oriental Short Hair vs Siamese