Siamese
Also known as: Traditional Siamese, Classic Siamese, Applehead Siamese
The Siamese is one of the world's oldest and most recognisable cat breeds — a sleek, elegant blue-eyed beauty with an unmistakable voice. Extroverted, demanding and endlessly entertaining, Siamese cats consider themselves full family members and will not accept being ignored.
About
The Siamese is one of the world's oldest and most recognisable cat breeds — a sleek, elegant blue-eyed beauty with an unmistakable voice. Extroverted, demanding and endlessly entertaining, Siamese cats consider themselves full family members and will not accept being ignored.
History
The Siamese is one of the first distinctly recognised Asian cat breeds. They appear in the ancient Thai manuscript "Tamra Maew" (Cat Poems), dating to the 14th–17th centuries. Western cat fanciers encountered them when the King of Siam gave them as gifts to the British consulate in the 1870s.
Care & Health
Progressive retinal atrophy can be tested for — ask breeders for certificates. Siamese have a higher than average incidence of amyloidosis (liver condition) and dental disease. They are highly social and should not be left alone for long periods; consider getting two.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- Thailand
- Life Span
- 12–20 years
- Size
- medium
- Hair Shed
- little
- Grooming
- Once a fortnight
- Good with Kids
- medium
- Feeding Cost
- $10–$15 p/w
- Colours
- Pale body with dark "points" (face mask, ears, paws, tail) in seal, blue, chocolate or lilac.
Health Considerations
Grooming
Minimal. Short close-lying coat needs only occasional brushing.
Related Resources
Similar Breeds
Balinese
Often compared to a Siamese cat, the Balinese is a long-haired breed with a graceful appearance. With large perky ears and long elegant lines, this breed is loved for its distinct features — blue eyes, a slender body and a luscious plumed tail. They are vocal, affectionate and highly intelligent.
Tonkinese
The Tonkinese is the perfect blend of the Siamese and Burmese — more outgoing than the Burmese, more relaxed than the Siamese. They have aquamarine eyes in the mink pattern, a social nature that makes them ideal for busy households, and a playfulness that lasts well into adulthood.
Oriental Shorthair
The Oriental Shorthair is the extrovert of the cat world — a sleek, angular cat with enormous ears, almond-shaped eyes and a personality that fills every room. They are vocal, opinionated and deeply attached to their owners. Orientals do not like being alone and need companionship — whether from humans or other cats.