The Oriental Longhair cat has a beautiful appearance and a kind, easygoing appearance. Their unusual appearance makes them desirable companions, but appearance isn’t everything this cat breed has going for them. Oriental longhair personality is also distinctive. If you’re seeking to add a kitty to your household, the Oriental Longhair kitten might be an ideal choice.
Oriental Longhair History
Oriental Longhairs, also known as Javanese, British Angora, Foreign Longhair, and Mandarin cats, are members of a wider group known as the Oriental. These cats were created with the purpose of developing cats with the body shape and behavior of a Siamese, in a range of various coat colors and patterns, using Siamese cats as important foundation members.
The Oriental goes back to the 1950s in England. Many cat varieties were nearly extinct during WWII when food shortages and continual bombing put a great burden on society as a whole. New colors and patterns emerged as breeders attempted to strengthen their foundations.
Both the Oriental Shorthair and the Oriental Longhair have Siamese ancestors, as well as Russian Blue, Abyssinian, British Shorthair, and other domestic genetics that enriched and strengthened the Siamese gene pool. After all, the only thing that separates an Oriental from a modern Siamese cat is its color.
The Oriental Shorthair was recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) in 1977, while the Oriental Longhair was not recognized until 1995.
The International Cat Association (TICA) recognized the breed or variation in 1979, and it is now recognized by cat breed registries all over the world.
Oriental Longtail Behavior
These are cats with lots of character. Both oriental longhair and oriental shorthair cats are very friendly, incredibly athletic, and enjoy being up high, whether it’s climbing on top of doors or climbing up trees. They are quite bright and respond well to clicker training. This breed is very loving and affectionate, yet it is also very playful.
Orientals enjoy playing with their owners but will happily entertain themselves for hours. Throughout their life, this breed retains the appearance of a kitten. They have inherited the Siamese breed’s noise chit-chat and love talking with everyone who would listen.
Oriental Longhair Characteristics
General Appearance
The Oriental cat is closely related to its closest relatives, the Siamese cats. They have a thin, trumpet-shaped body that may reach 35 inches in length. Cats are physically strong and may weigh up to 14 pounds. The muzzle is formed like a heart, and big standing ears cap the head. The neck, limbs, and tail are all long and slim.
Coat and Coloring
Oriental Longhairs cats feature silky, flowing coats and a long, graceful tail plume. There are over 300 different color and pattern combinations to pick from. Oriental coats are available in a variety of solid colors, including black, blue, lilac, caramel, cinnamon, and fawn. The red line includes bright red coats as well as softened variations in cream and apricot, as well as tortoiseshells.
These colors are also available in tabby and silver variations, and the chocolate and white Orientals now have their own names: the former is known as the Havana, and the latter as the Foreign White.
Oriental Longtail Care
Caring for an oriental longhair cat is similar to caring for other breeds. Oriental longhairs have many similarities with Siamese cats, and they are also considered to be highly curious and intelligent. To keep Oriental longhair cats from misbehaving, they must be stimulated on a regular basis. Your oriental longhair may be a fantastic buddy for other pets, and they are simple to teach using positive reinforcement methods.
Nutrition
The Oriental Longhair cat breed is prone to overeating and grows overweight fast. To avoid this problem, you must feed a nutritious diet that contains all of the necessary nutrients from the time the kitten arrives in the house.
Adult Oriental Longhair cats require a proper diet for their health as well. The beauty of their coat is dependent on the body receiving the appropriate mineral components and vitamins. This breed may be fed both natural and purchased food.
Grooming
Despite having lengthy hair, Oriental cats are great self-groomers and will perform the majority of the grooming for you. Brushing them out a few times a month will remove any loose hairs that they may have missed.
These cats have a distinct hair texture that is silky and fine, and they don’t possess an undercoat. Their hair is shinier and smoother than that of other long-haired breeds, and they shed less overall.
Oriental Longhairs are normally pleased to participate in grooming sessions since they enjoy cuddling, but the sooner you start grooming your cat, the more easily they will adapt to the process.
Health
The Oriental Longhair cat has a strong immune system and general good health. Loneliness, on the other hand, is not tolerated by this breed; they become sad and unhappy. They may become depressed, so keep an eye on the Oriental’s mental health.
Because they are prone to gingivitis, they should get their teeth cleaned on a regular basis. There is also a danger of cardiovascular disease, so regular exams by the veterinarian are recommended.
The oriental longhair cat might be a wonderful addition to your home if you are seeking a highly friendly cat that is also elegant and rewarding. Oriental longhairs thrive in a social setting having regular stimulus.
If you can match this cat’s enthusiasm and play demands, they will shower you with affection. These cats are devoted and form lifelong bonds. They undoubtedly win your heart and become a vital part of your family.