How was the Oriental cat bred? - briefly
The Oriental cat was bred in the United States during the mid-20th century by crossing Siamese cats with other breeds such as Abyssinians and Russian Blues. This crossbreeding aimed to create a sleek, elegant cat with the distinctive color points of the Siamese but in a wider range of colors and patterns.
How was the Oriental cat bred? - in detail
The Oriental cat, with its distinctive and elegant appearance, is not a naturally occurring breed but rather a result of deliberate and selective breeding. The origins of this breed can be traced back to the early 20th century when British breeders aimed to create a cat resembling the Siamese but in various colors other than seal-pointed.
The process began with crossbreeding Siamese cats, which are known for their distinctive blue eyes and short, smooth coat, with other breeds such as Abyssinian, Russian Blue, and British Shorthair. The goal was to introduce new color variations while maintaining the Siamese body type and temperament. This initial crossing laid the foundation for what would eventually become the Oriental cat.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, breeders continued to refine the Oriental cat by selectively breeding for desired traits such as the svelte body, large ears, and almond-shaped eyes. They also aimed to introduce a wider range of coat colors and patterns. This included creating solid colors like black, white, chocolate, and lilac, as well as tabby and smoke variations.
A significant breakthrough occurred in 1965 when British breeder Doreen Hunter developed the Havana Brown by crossing Siamese cats with a domestic black cat. This new breed exhibited the body type of a Siamese but with a rich, warm brown coat. The Havana Brown played a crucial role in further diversifying the Oriental cat lineage, as it contributed to the creation of new color variations within the Oriental breed.
The International Cat Association (TICA) officially recognized the Oriental Shorthair as a distinct breed in 1972, acknowledging the significant progress made by breeders in developing this elegant and versatile cat. Since then, the Oriental cat has become a popular choice among cat enthusiasts worldwide, appreciated for its striking appearance and lively personality.
In summary, the Oriental cat is a product of meticulous breeding efforts over several decades. By combining the best traits of Siamese cats with those of other breeds, dedicated breeders have successfully created a unique and captivating feline that continues to enchant cat lovers today.