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How Big Do Oriental Shorthair Cats Get? Size & Growth Chart

Patricia Dickson

By Patricia Dickson

brown oriental shorthair cat sitting outdoor

Oriental Shorthair Cats are affectionate, curious, playful, and easygoing creatures. They remind many pet owners of  Siamese cats, and they have many of the same characteristics.

If you’re looking to adopt an Oriental Shorthair Cat, it’s important to know that it develops similarly to other breeds of the same size. Oriental Shorthair Cats can grow up to 16 to 18 inches and 8 to 12 pounds of weight. We’ll go into everything you need to know about the growth of your Oriental Shorthair in the guide below.

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Facts About Oriental Shorthair Cats

Not only does this breed get along well with adults and children, but it also gets along well with other animals, including well-behaved dogs. Of course, you’ll need to train and socialize your animals to get along well with one another as babies for the best results.

The Oriental Shorthair will cost $600 to $1,000 to adopt. However, they can cost as much as $3,000 if you’re looking for a show cat. The breed has a life expectancy of between 13 and 14 years.

They come in various colors, including white, black, red, grey, brown, and blue, to name a few. One of the best things about this breed is its temperament. While they love being outside, they are just as comfortable and easygoing being inside with their pet parents. They are extremely intelligent, so you will want to use toys to keep them physically and mentally sharp.

It’s important to note that if you’re looking to adopt or purchase an Oriental Shorthair Cat, the expenses for owning the cat don’t end with the adoption fees. Cats are a huge responsibility, from the money it costs to keep them happy and healthy to the love and attention you need to give the cat. Make sure you and your family are ready to take on that responsibility before you give this little creature a forever home.

oriental shorthair cat relaxing together
Image Credit: VittoriaChe, Shutterstock

Oriental Shorthair Cats Size & Growth Chart

Like other felines, the Oriental Shorthair is tiny and weighs around 3 to 4 ounces when it’s born. By the time the cat is 10 weeks old, it’s about 2 pounds; when it reaches adulthood, you can expect it to weigh 8 to 12 pounds.

Age Weight Range Length Range
Birth 3 to 4 ounces 3 to 4 inches
2 weeks 6 to 8 ounces 4 to 5 inches
5 weeks 1 pound 5 to 7 inches
10 weeks 2 to 4 pounds 7 to 9 inches
Adult (2 years) 8 to 12 pounds 16 to 18 inches

When Does an Oriental Shorthair Cat Stop Growing?

The Oriental Shorthair stops growing between 18 months and 4 years of age. This is when you can expect your cat to be full-grown. Your cat will be off the kitten food and need to eat kibble for full-grown cats. You’ll also notice a difference in how active and playful your Oriental Shorthair Cat is as they age.

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Factors Affecting the Size of Oriental Shorthair Cats

A few factors can affect the growth of any Oriental Shorthair Cat. The environment the cat is raised will undoubtedly affect its size. If the cat is a stray, then it won’t be a good size or as healthy as a well-cared-for indoor cat would be.

The size of your cat will also depend on the food you feed your feline pal. For example, if you provide your cat with cheap, low-quality food, it may not reach its ideal weight. A cat is a carnivore that needs meat protein in its diet. If you want your Oriental Shorthair Cat to reach its ideal weight, you need high-quality, well-balanced cat food.

oriental shorthair kitten
Image Credit: TaniaVdB, Pixabay

Ideal Diet for Maintaining a Healthy Weight

To keep your cat healthy and ensure it develops a healthy weight, select a cat food brand that is high in protein, contains moderate fat, and is balanced with essential vitamins and minerals. Look for brands that list a meat protein, such as chicken or fish, as the first ingredient.

Dry food typically has more protein and fat than wet food, but wet food has more moisture, which is helpful for cats that don’t drink enough water. You can provide wet and dry meals for your cat, so it receives the proper nutrients and stays hydrated.

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How to Measure Your Oriental Shorthair Cat

It’s best to measure your Oriental Shorthair Cat from the top of its head to the base of its tail for the length; then, measure from the widest part of the cat’s body, which is the hip bone, for the width. When your cat is standing on all fours, measure from the floor to the base of the head for the height.

Use a fabric tape measure, and try to measure your pet after it has eaten, so it’s calm and relaxed. If you’re unsure of your measurements, you can make an appointment with your vet.

oriental shorthair kitten hold by owner
Image Credit: SvetMedvedeva, Shutterstock

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Summary

Oriental Shorthair Cats reach 8 to 10 inches in height, 16 to 18 inches in length, and weigh 8 to 12 pounds at full growth. The breed’s growth rate is similar to that of Siamese cats.

Oriental Shorthairs are lovable, affectionate, and loyal and stay close to their pet parents. If you’re considering adopting or purchasing an Oriental Shorthair Cat, you’ll be happy to know that they get along well with kids and other pets if they are trained early on.

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Featured Image Credit: CrisMC, Shutterstock

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