Oriental Longhairs are the long-haired version of the Oriental Shorthair. They are sleek, graceful, and full of personality—loving to chat, play, and be part of the action with their people.
❤️Affectionate
🔊Vocal
🏃Active
💡Intelligent
👥People-Oriented
Oriental Longhair Breed Score
87/100
★★★★★★★★★★
Family Life
85
Trainability
80
Intelligence
90
Apartment Living
85
Grooming Ease
70
How We Score ⓘ
🌍Origin United States
🐾Breed Group Natural Breed
📏Size Medium
↕Height 8-11 in
⚖Weight 6-12 lbs
❤Life Expectancy 12-16 years
Breed Ratings
👪
Family Friendly
★★★★★★★★★★
🧒
Good with Kids
★★★★★★★★★★
🐕
Good with Dogs
★★★★★★★★★★
🐱
Good with Cats
★★★★★★★★★★
🏢
Apartment Friendly
★★★★★★★★★★
⚡
Energy Level
★★★★★★★★★★
🧠
Intelligence
★★★★★★★★★★
🎓
Trainability
★★★★★★★★★★
✂️
Grooming Needs
★★★★★★★★★★
〰️
Shedding
★★★★★★★★★★
🔊
Vocal Level
★★★★★★★★★★
✅
Independent
★★★★★★★★★★
❤️
Affection Level
★★★★★★★★★★
Meet the Oriental Longhair
Oriental Longhairs are elegant and graceful cats with silky, medium-length coats and vibrant eyes. They are known for their chatty nature, playful spirit, and strong bonds with their families.
Where It All Began
Developed in the United States in the 1970s, the Oriental Longhair is the long-haired variety of the Oriental Shorthair. Breeders introduced long-haired genes from other breeds while maintaining the Oriental's distinctive look and personality.
Personality
VocalPlayfulIntelligentAffectionateCurious
🏃 An Active Lifestyle
This breed needs daily, vigorous exercise — long walks, runs, or active play — to stay happy and well-behaved.
✓ 60+ minutes of exercise daily
✓ Fenced yard or open space preferred
✓ Mental enrichment / training games
✂ Grooming Needs
Their silky medium-length coat needs regular brushing to stay healthy and free of mats.
✓ Brush 2-3 times per week
✓ Regular nail trims
✓ Clean ears as needed
✓ Dental care recommended
✓ Provide plenty of play and mental stimulation
❤ Keeping Healthy
Generally healthy, but regular vet care can help prevent common issues.
• Regular vet checkups
• Dental care is important
• Watch for respiratory issues
• Maintain a healthy diet and weight
$ Cost of Ownership
Owning an Oriental Longhair is moderate compared to many pedigree breeds.
Purchase Price: $800 - $2,500
Monthly Cost: $40 - $100
First Year Cost: $900 - $2,200
Lifetime Cost: $10,000 - $15,000
👍 Pros
✓ Very affectionate
✓ Highly intelligent
✓ Vocal and expressive
✓ Playful and fun-loving
✓ Gorgeous silky coat
👎 Cons
✗ Very vocal
✗ Needs lots of attention
✗ Can be demanding
✗ Not ideal if left alone long
✗ May not suit very young kids
💡 Did You Know?
Oriental Longhairs come in many colors and patterns. Their silky coats, large ears, and almond-shaped eyes give them a unique, exotic look.
⚖
Compare Oriental Longhair
See how the Oriental Longhair stacks up against other breeds to find your perfect match.