Colorpoint Shorthair Description

The Colorpoint Shorthair is the cousin of the Siamese, distinguished only by the addition of color and color points in the coat. They are a hybrid of the Siamese, far different in their structure today than in their beginnings. Their standard is the same as that of the Siamese, in fact, differing only in coat length and color. The original coat change was the addition of red and cream, and to this was added a lynx pointed tabby with six colors: seal, chocolate, blue, lilac, red, and cream. Finally, parti-color were added. It is interesting to note that the red/cream is sex based, so only females can be parti-color. A notable phenomenon of the hybridization process is a blotching or splotching of the red and cream that can cause a 'blaze' or symmetrical split of the red or cream and traditional Siamese color in the face mask, giving them a striking appearance. The colors of the coat should be clear, with an allowance made for darker colors in older cats as the coat darkens with age. Points are found on the mask, ears, feet, legs and tail. There are three color classes with 16 acceptable colors and combinations. The head of the Colorpoint should be a long, tapered wedge that is medium in size and in proportion to the body. Ears are strikingly large, pointed and continue the lines of the wedge. The eyes should be set no less than one eye width apart and be a vivid blue. They should be almond shaped and medium sized. The body should be medium in size, graceful, long and svelte. This is a Siamese body and differs only in coat. It should be that distinct combination of fine bones and firm muscle found in all Siamese cats, with shoulders and hips continuing the sleek lines. Legs should be long and slim with the hind legs longer than the front. Paws should be small, dainty and oval.

Colorpoint Shorthair Temperament

The Colorpoint Shorthair has the same personality as its Siamese cousin. They crave attention from their humans and need companionship or they will pine. It is best, if you have a busy lifestyle, to have a pair so they can keep one another company. They are equally as vocal as their cousins and will keep you going with friendly conversations. They are great with children, and will follow you from room to room, demanding your lap when you are seated. They love to play fetch, returning the toy to your lap rather than your feet. They will not tolerate being isolated or ignored.

Colorpoint Shorthair Care

The Colorpoint requires no more in care than the Siamese. They have few needs the way of grooming and are good for those with mild allergies as they have little dander. Occasional bathing with an air drying are recommended as are diets high in protein to keep the lean look.

Colorpoint Shorthair History

The history of the Colorpoint is that of the Siamese. In fact this breed is no different, coming from the same parents and heritage, and differs only in that it is the product of attempts to breed additional colors into the Siamese to increase popularity. Early outcrossing to domestic shorthairs was concentrated to bring about a Siamese that displayed a red coloring gene and this produced what we know of as the Colorpoint Shorthair. They differed much in type in their early years, however breeders now breed them to match the "Extreme" standard of the shown Siamese. They have been around since 1947 but did not receive recognition as their own breed until 1964.