Colorpoint Shorthair
Breed at a glance
About the Colorpoint Shorthair
The Colorpoint Shorthair is a cat breed, a breed originating from the United States, characterized by a short, sleek coat with pointed coloration.
Coat
The color may be shaded or clear. The color may darken as the cat ages; however there is a contrast between the body color and the point colour.
Overview
The Colorpoint Shorthair or Colourpoint Shorthair is a variety of Siamese cat . The only major registries to recognise them are the Cat Fanciers'' Association (CFA) and the World Cat Federation (WCF). This breed was established from breeding American Shorthairs with the Siamese to produce different point colors , beyond the four standard Siamese colors.
Origin
Circa 1948 breeders in the US and UK wished to introduce new colorings into the Siamese — specifically red. The first Colorpoint Shorthair was bred from a red (ginger) tabby American Shorthair and a seal point Siamese.
Appearance
The Colorpoint Shorthair should have the appearance of a Siamese in type. It''s a medium sized and slender cat with good muscle. The head has a long and tapering wedge and is of medium size in good proportion to the body. The gap between the eyes should be less than the size of the eye. The skull is flat. The neck is long and slender. Nose is long and straight. The ears are large, wide at the base, and pointed. The eyes are blue and almond shaped of medium size. The abdomen should be tight and hips shouldn''t be wider than shoulders. The legs are long and slim. The tail is long and thin.
Breed recognition
In 1964 the Colorpoint Shorthair achieved championship status with the CFA, with cream and red point being the only recognised colours at the time. By 1969 the CFA would allow lynx and tortoiseshell point colorings. The breed is currently also recognised by the WCF under the name “Colourpoint Shorthair”, although without a published standard. It is not recognised as a breed by The International Cat Association , the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy , and Fédération Internationale Féline .
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Colorpoint Shorthair?
The Colorpoint Shorthair is a medium-sized cat with a short, fine coat and a muscular body. They have a wedge-shaped head, almond-shaped eyes, and a short, fine tail. Their point coloration is the defining feature, with a cream or white base coat and darker points on the extremities, face, ears, and tail.
Is the Colorpoint Shorthair a good family cat?
As a Siamese-derived breed, Colorpoint Shorthairs are known for their outgoing, affectionate nature. They are generally good with children and can be a good fit for families who want a social, interactive pet. However, they do require attention and interaction, so they may not be suitable for very busy households.
What health problems do Colorpoint Shorthairs have?
Like other breeds, Colorpoint Shorthairs can be prone to certain health issues, including crossed eyes, patellar luxation, and amyloidosis. They are also at risk for dental problems and obesity. Regular veterinary care and a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate these risks.
How much does a Colorpoint Shorthair kitten cost?
The cost of a Colorpoint Shorthair kitten can vary depending on factors like location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, you can expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 for a pet-quality kitten. Show-quality kittens may be more expensive, while rescue or adoption options may be more affordable.