Cat Breeds

The Siamese cat breed hardly needs an introduction, since it is one of the most famous and instantly recognizable of all cat breeds. It is also one of the oldest cat breeds, having been around since roughly the beginning of modern cat shows in the nineteenth century, and presumably having been around even longer before that in Asian countries.

The Traditional Siamese is an intelligent, people-oriented cat which enjoys human companionship - whether it be as a lap warmer or chasing a toy. They are inquisitive and friendly, and like nothing better than to sit in the middle of something you are trying to read. They talk to their people in an affectionate, conversational way.
With their calm temperaments, they are well-adapted to life in either a house or an apartment. They are not in perpetual motion - they have a fairly balanced activity level and are just as happy to chase a toy as to curl up in your lap for a snooze.

Perhaps the most famous personality quirk of Siamese cats is their distinctive call, which can be quite loud and haunting, like a baby crying. Siamese cats are also famously playful. They tend to crave attention from their human families, and often resort to elaborate displays of playfulness to get attention. It is said that they tend to get along well with other pets as well.

From the tip of its nose to the end of its long, whippy tail, the Oriental is a study in sleek design. This elegant cat gracefully glides across the room on its tall, slender legs. The lines of the Oriental's angular head flow into its large flaring ears, and are complimented by its almond shaped eyes. Don’t be fooled by the svelte, tubular body; these cats have surprising weight and muscle tone and are neither frail nor fragile.

Orientals represent a diverse group of cats that have their foundation in the Siamese breed. When the Oriental Shorthair was accepted for championship status in 1977 it rapidly became one of Cat Fancier’s Association’s most popular breeds. With the 1995 addition of the Oriental Longhair into this family of sleek, muscular felines the Oriental breed can provide a cat for just about anyone. With over 300 different colours and patterns to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find an Oriental that will tickle your fancy.

Orientals eagerly greet you at the door and tell you all about their day. If you’re late, they will scold you and tell you how worried they were that you didn't call. Hide their feather on top of the refrigerator? Wrong! Curiosity and intelligence combine, providing Orientals a means of finding anything and everything. They have been known to open a drawer, or empty your purse to discover their favourite toy. Give Orientals the attention and affection they so desperately need, and they will do anything to please you. Ignore them, and they will droop with despair.

These elegant, svelte cats remain playful and loyal well beyond their youth. In the busiest moments, your Oriental will find a way to interrupt your activities; a little nudge while you eat, or some help tying your shoes before you leave in the morning. You’ll need help deciding which items to select from the refrigerator! In the calmest of times they’ll share the warmth of your lap, provide a comforting purr, and nuzzle your chin when you need it the most.