The Siamese Cat  (EMS: SIA)

Siamese cats have fascinated people around the world since they first arrived from Thailand (or Siam, as it was known then) in the 1880's. Their sleek lines, striking color contrast, finely chiseled aristocratic heads, deep blue almond eyes, and short silky coats make them living art. Combine this beauty with acute intelligence, inquisitive personality and a loving nature and you have the essence of the Siamese cat.

The first Siamese cats to appear in England were a gift from Siam to an ambassador who brought them home. They began appearing in English cat shows almost immediately, and in American shows by the early twentieth century.

This ancient breed, perhaps the oldest of all our cats, is able to communicate like no other cat. The Siamese voice is legendary. They speak both with their voice and with their body. They are the quintessential “people” cat, for they love to be in your lap, on your bed, at your table... and in your heart!

The Oriental Shorthair Cat  (EMS: OSH)

In short, the oriental shorthair cat is a colored siamese without the characteristic blue eyes. They appear in a diversity of colors and patterns, from solid to classic tabby to bicolor.

In the beginning, those cats with the distinctive Siamese markings were selectively bred, and the others were referred to as "non-blue eyed siamese" or "foreign shorthair". Eventually they were called orientals.

As with the siamese, the oriental demands companionship, and if you ignore it or take it for granted, it will somehow express its displeasure. The oriental cat will remain loyal throughout its life and deserves no less from its human companion.