Oriental Short Hair vs Turkish Angora

Which cat breed is right for you?

Oriental Short Hair

Size
5–10 lbs
Lifespan
12–15 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Vocal Social Playful Intelligent

Turkish Angora

Size
5–10 lbs
Lifespan
12–18 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Playful Intelligent Social Graceful

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 Turkish Angora

The Turkish Angora is an ancient, naturally occurring breed from central Turkey — specifically the Ankara region — and is one of the oldest known longhaired cat breeds. This small-to-medium cat weighs 5–10 pounds and possesses a graceful, balletic build with a long, plumed tail, silky single-layer coat (no undercoat), and large, walnut-shaped eyes. While white is the most iconic color — often with striking odd eyes (one blue, one amber) — Turkish Angoras come in nearly every color and pattern except pointed.

Temperament & Personality

Turkish Angoras are spirited, intelligent cats that love to be at the center of the action. They are natural athletes — leaping to the highest shelf, opening doors, and inventing games to entertain themselves. Affectionate and strong-willed, they will happily greet guests and supervise every household activity, often choosing one family member as their primary favorite.

Pros

  • Elegant, silky coat has no undercoat — sheds less and rarely mats
  • Highly intelligent and entertaining — always inventing new games and tricks
  • Social and welcoming with guests and family alike
  • Naturally healthy breed with excellent longevity — many live 15–20 years

Cons

  • White cats with blue eyes have a high incidence of congenital deafness
  • Strong-willed and mischievous — can be stubborn about rules
  • Demands attention and may become disruptive if ignored
  • Prone to ataxia (a hereditary neurological condition) in some lines

Entranced by this ancient Turkish treasure? Find Turkish Angora cats looking for loving homes on Puplister and add a touch of grace to your life.

Available for Adoption

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Oriental Short Hairs

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Turkish Angoras

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Oriental Short Hair and a Turkish Angora?
The Oriental Short Hair is 5–10 lbs sized while the Turkish Angora is 5–10 lbs sized. They differ in size (5–10 lbs vs 5–10 lbs), lifespan (12–15 years vs 12–18 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Oriental Short Hair or Turkish Angora?
Oriental Short Hair is generally good with kids. Turkish Angora is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Oriental Short Hair or Turkish Angora?
The Oriental Short Hair has a lifespan of 12–15 years while the Turkish Angora has a lifespan of 12–18 years.

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