Colorpoint Shorthair

Overview

Overview of Colorpoint Shorthair

Who is possibly the chattiest kitty in the all the land? The Colorpoint Shorthair! Did you know that cats can make over 100 different vocalizations? That's 90 more than a dog! These cats will always tell you what's on their mind, so if you want a quiet pet, the Colorpoint Shorthair cat may not be a good fit. In the 1970s, breeders wanted to develop a cat that was like the Siamese in every way, except with more colorpoints, so they crossed them with Abyssinians and red shorthaired cats to create the Shorthair Colorpoint! They come in over 20 different color points, are medium-sized (5-10 lbs) and like their Siamese cousins, they all have stunning blue eyes. Their short, dense coat only requires weekly grooming, and they are low dander shedders, so these kitties would be great for anyone suffering from cat allergies!

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Colorpoint Shorthair

Asthma in cats:

causes inflammation and narrowing of a cat’s lungs and nasal airways. Certain cat breeds, such as the Colorpoint Shorthair cat, are especially susceptible. Wheezing, difficulty breathing and coughing can be signs of respiratory distress and should be addressed immediately.

Recommendations for Asthma in cats in Colorpoint Shorthair Cats:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Colorpoint Shorthair

Cat Separation Anxiety:

Colorpoint Shorthairs are extremely social cats so they may suffer from separation anxiety when they are left alone for too long. This can look like excessive meowing or moaning, low appetite, going to the bathroom outside of their litter box (around the house), excessive grooming and possible destructive behavior.

Recommendations for Cat Separation Anxiety in Colorpoint Shorthair Cats:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for Colorpoint Shorthair

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Cats:

Just like their Siamese cousins, Colorpoint Shorthairs may be susceptible to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM which is a thickening of the heart muscle. This is the most common form of heart disease in cats and may be caused by an overactive endocrine system.

Recommendations for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Cats in Colorpoint Shorthair Cats:

Personality

Intelligent, playful, and vocal, the Colorpoint Shorthair is like their Siamese cousins in their larger-than-life personality and social demeanor. They are high-energy kitties who love interacting with their human family members, so make sure you have lots of interactive toys to keep your pet happy but they don't do well if left alone for too long. These cats demand your attention, so if you're looking for a velcro kitty to follow you around all day, the Colorpoint Shorthair may be your ideal housemate!