Colorpoint Shorthair vs Siamese

Verdict

Temperament does not separate these two cats, because the profiles score them the same on every measure. Both are slender, blue-eyed, very talkative and devoted. The Colorpoint Shorthair is the Siamese pattern with extra point colours: red, cream, lynx and tortie. The Siamese is the older and far more common breed, so a kitten is easier to find. Choose the point colour you prefer, and let the breeder you trust settle the rest.

Choose the Colorpoint Shorthair if

• You want red, cream, lynx or tortie points instead of the four traditional Siamese colours.
• You accept a rare breed and a longer wait for a kitten.
• You want a cat that suits someone who is home through the day.
• You will watch for progressive retinal atrophy and mammary tumours with your vet.

Choose the Siamese if

• You want the classic pointed cat, a CFA championship breed since 1906.
• You want the easier search, since the Siamese is Common and the Colorpoint is Rare.
• You want a lively, talkative companion for a family that can give a lot of attention.
• You will watch for progressive retinal atrophy and amyloidosis with your vet.

Where they are alike

Both have a short, fine, glossy coat with no undercoat, which needs little grooming and sheds lightly. Both are highly intelligent, affectionate and unsuited to a household that is empty all day.