Cat breed guide

Colorpoint Shorthair

Vocal, affectionate, and impossible to ignore

Quick answer: The Colorpoint Shorthair is a very social, talkative cat with a sleek short coat and bright point colors.

Very vocal Extremely social Short coat High energy People-focused
Researched Fact-checked Updated Jan 2026
Colorpoint Shorthair cat with blue eyes and point coloring

Personality Traits

Playfulness 5/5
Affection level 5/5
Activity level 5/5
Friendliness 5/5
Intelligence 5/5

Quick Facts

Size
Medium
Weight
6–14 lb (about 2.7–6.4 kg)
Lifespan
12–16 years
Origin
USA
Coat
Short, fine, smooth
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Low

Overview

The Colorpoint Shorthair is not a quiet background cat. They are bold, curious, and deeply connected to their people. If you enjoy conversation, attention, and a cat that acts like a roommate, this breed delivers.

Personality & Temperament

Very affectionate

Usually enjoys cuddles and being near people.

Playful & curious

Likes interactive toys and learning games.

High energy

Needs daily activity and enrichment.

Smart & trainable

Learns routines fast; puzzle toys help a lot.

Personality in real life

Colorpoint Shorthairs are extremely talkative and love daily “conversations.”

They are very people-oriented and prefer company over solitude.

They stay playful and energetic well into adulthood.

Many form a strong bond with one main person.

They do best in homes where someone is around often.

History

The Colorpoint Shorthair developed in the United States during the mid-20th century, growing out of the Siamese breed and its devoted fan base.

Breeders admired the Siamese body type and bold personality, but wanted to explore a much wider range of point colors than the traditional ones.

Through careful, planned breeding with other shorthaired cats, new colors were introduced while the elegant shape and social temperament were kept intact.

Over time, this effort resulted in a distinct breed that stayed true to its Siamese roots while standing on its own as the Colorpoint Shorthair.

Appearance

Slim, athletic body with long lines.

Short, smooth coat that lies close to the skin.

Clear point coloring on the face, ears, legs, and tail.

Bright blue eyes with an alert, expressive look.

Comes in many more point colors than traditional Siamese cats.

Is a Colorpoint Shorthair right for you?

Good fit if:

  • You want a highly social and interactive cat.
  • You enjoy a vocal cat that responds to you.
  • You have time for daily play and attention.
  • You like cats that follow you from room to room.

Not ideal if:

  • You want a quiet or low-energy cat.
  • You are away from home most of the day.
  • You prefer a very independent breed.

Daily life with a Colorpoint Shorthair

Energy level

High. Expect daily play, climbing, and curiosity.

Noise level

Very vocal. They love to talk and be heard.

Attention needs

Very high. They want regular interaction.

Grooming

Very easy. Occasional brushing is enough.

Things to Know Before Adopting

  • They can become bored or unhappy if left alone too often.
  • They may demand attention loudly.
  • They need daily play to stay mentally satisfied.
  • Not a great fit for people who prefer a quiet home.

Interesting Facts

Fact 1 of 4

Many people describe them as “Siamese with extra colors.”

Reviewed Researched by CatsLib Team Regularly updated
C

CatsLib Team

Editorial & Research Team

CatsLib content is written and reviewed by our editorial team. We focus on clear, practical guidance for cat owners and regularly update articles when recommendations change.

About our editorial process
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Sources & References (2)

All information on CatsLib is backed by reputable sources. We regularly review and update our content to ensure accuracy.

1
CFA - Colorpoint Shorthair
Last checked: Jan 18, 2026
cfa.org
2
TICA - Colorpoint Shorthair
Last checked: Jan 18, 2026
tica.org

Our editorial process: Every article is reviewed by veterinarians and feline behavior experts. We cross-reference multiple sources and update content regularly to maintain accuracy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to the most common questions about this topic

1
Are Colorpoint Shorthair cats talkative?

Yes. They are one of the most vocal cat breeds and enjoy frequent interaction with their people.

2
Are Colorpoint Shorthairs good family cats?

Yes, especially for families that enjoy an active, social cat and plenty of interaction.

3
Are Colorpoint Shorthair cats hypoallergenic?

No cat is truly hypoallergenic. They shed little, but allergens are still present.

4
How long do Colorpoint Shorthair cats live?

Most live around 12–16 years with proper care.

5
How much does a Colorpoint Shorthair cost?

Prices vary by breeder and location, but kittens often range from about $600 to $1,200.

Still have questions? We're here to help!