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Oriental Longhair
United Kingdom and United States
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- vocal
- social
- inquisitive
- elegant
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Oriental Longhair
The Oriental Longhair has the long, slender body, wedge-shaped head and large ears of the Oriental Shorthair, but with a fine, silky, semi-long coat and a plumed tail. It comes in a wide range of colours and patterns, and some registries know it as the Oriental Semi-longhair or include it within the Oriental breed.
Temperament
Vocal, affectionate and highly social. Oriental Longhairs crave company and attention, and will chat to their owners. They usually dislike long periods alone.
Play & activity
High. They need daily play, things to climb and toys that stretch their minds.
Grooming
The coat lies close and lacks a thick undercoat, so a weekly brush is generally sufficient.
Care & wellbeing
Related breeds carry risks of progressive retinal atrophy and dental disease, so regular tooth care and eye checks are worthwhile. A second cat or a busy household often suits them better than a quiet one.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 4 kg adult- Water
- 160 ml–240 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 240 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 30–45 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Oriental Longhair
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Longhaired Oriental-type cats were developed in Britain and the United States from the 1970s and 1980s, using Oriental Shorthairs, Balinese and other breeds. They were initially known by different names, including British Angora in the UK. Recognition and naming vary by registry.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Dental disease
- Amyloidosis has been reported in related lines
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- PRA (rdAc) DNA test
Not every Oriental Longhair is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Oriental Longhair right for you?
Could suit
- Homes with time for lots of interactive play
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- People who want an affectionate, people-focused cat
Think twice if
- The cat will be alone and unoccupied for long stretches
Common questions
How big does a Oriental Longhair get?
Adult Oriental Longhairs typically weigh around 3–5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Oriental Longhairs live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Oriental Longhair?
Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Oriental Longhair need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Oriental Longhairs affectionate?
Typically very people-focused and affectionate. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Oriental Longhairs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Oriental Longhairs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Oriental Longhair live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Oriental Longhairs have?
The breed can be prone to progressive retinal atrophy (pra), dental disease, amyloidosis has been reported in related lines. Not every Oriental Longhair is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.