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Abyssinian vs Oriental Shorthair

Two cat breeds, side by side. Same data, no favourites.

AbyssinianOriental Shorthair
Lifespan9-13 years12-15 years
SizeMediumMedium
Weight8-12 lb6-12 lb
EnergyVery highHigh
GroomingLowLow
SheddingLowModerate
With kidsWith supervisionWith supervision

What actually separates them

The honest downside of each

Abyssinian

Abyssinians are one of the most perpetually active cat breeds that exists and generally dislike being held or restrained, which is the opposite of what most people picture when a breeder describes a 'friendly, people-oriented' cat.

Oriental Shorthair

Oriental Shorthairs are Siamese in a different coat, including the same nonstop, opinionated vocalizing — often described as sounding more like a goose honking than a meow — and it is not occasional; it is how this breed communicates its needs and displeasure at all hours, 3am included.

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Abyssinian  ·  Oriental Shorthair
Health problems, origin and what living with each is actually like.