If you just went into the street and flagged down 100 strangers and asked them to name ten different “types” of cat breeds, chances are you wouldn’t find many who could do this. But most of them would probably be able to name two or three. And we’re willing to bet that one of those two or three will be the Siamese. And why not? The Siamese cat breed is one of the most admired and sophisticated felines. As one of the first Asian cats recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association, this breed has a long history of being appreciated in the United States and worldwide.
But is a Siamese cat right for you?
That’s the real question we hope to help you answer in this article. Because in this article, we’re going to try and shed some light on what it might be like to own one of the fabulous little guys. So that if you’re ever allowed to own one, you’ll know it will be a good fit.
So, without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Siamese Cat Breed Fast Facts
Country of Origin: Thailand (previously known as Siam)
Size: Small to medium
Weight: 7 to 15 pounds
Eyes: Almond-shaped (blue)
Shape of Head: Wedged-shaped
Lifespan: 15 to 20 years
Origin of the Siamese Cat Breed
While no one is 100% sure how the Siamese came into being, we do know that they are one of several breeds of cats native to what was once called Siam, or modern-day Thailand. Their “existence” only became well known or at least well known in the West during the mid-19th century when owning one of these unique creature was quite fashionable. Previously, holding a Siamese cat was considered very “chic” because importing them from Thailand was expensive.
Over time, however…
As these cats continued to be very popular, the available gene pool within the United States began to increase, which helped bring down the cost of owning one of these beauties, making them affordable to just about anyone. This is why the Siamese cat remains one of America’s most popular cat breeds, making it an excellent pet for just about any family.
This is also why the Siamese helped develop many other breeds, including the Havana Brown, the Tonkinese, the Balinese, the Oriental, and the Himalayan division of the Persian.
Physical Characteristics
The breed standard for the Siamese recognized by organizations like The International Cat Association and Cat Fanciers Association includes a sizeable wedge-shaped head with large ears. These cats should have short hair, naturally accentuating their long, slender, muscular body. Males typically weigh about 9-15 pounds, and females 6-12 pounds.
Most people will…
Recognize the Siamese by their seal point markings. These light-colored bodies and darker extremities can come in four “recognized” color prints, including:
- Blue point,
- Chocolate point,
- Lilac point,
- And traditional dark brown seal point.
Their colors come from a temperature-sensitive enzyme that causes these sleek sweethearts to develop darker colors on the body’s more excellent parts and stay light on their warmer torso. But don’t be surprised when you see a fluffy all-white Siamese kitten – they don’t develop their distinctive coloring until they are a few weeks old and grow into sleek, short hair when they’re a little older.
In addition…
To their very recognizable coat colorings, one of their other captivating features is their large, almond-shaped blue eyes, which give them a brilliant gaze and regal demeanor, causing people to feel like their ancient breed is judging them. This is ironic because, once upon a time, Siamese cats had crossed eyes and kinked tails. Through selective breeding, cat breeders could eliminate these less-than-desirable traits.
Vocal Vitality
Spend any time with a Siamese, and you’ll quickly notice that they are anything but quiet. They’re one of the they’re cats you’ll meet. Your lityou’lliend will want to chat and follow you to comment on their opinion of your actions. When you’re happy, they me. They’re sweet. But when they’re angry, their vthey’retion can be downright earsplitting.
Plus, it should be noted that…
A Siamese cat loves the sound of its low-pitched voice and wants to ensure everyone hears it. They are very loud and will let you know when they’re unhappy. You’they’rekly discovYou’llno door or there’s can keep out the sound. So will your neighbors. You may want to have a bottle of wine on hand if your kitty complains in the early morning hours.
Kitty Charisma
The Siamese may seem aloof from a distance, but they are attention seekers. The Siamese are intelligent, curious, and affectionate. They will love upon the whole family, but they’re known to pick their favorite and spend their time following their human around the house. So, if you’re looking for a who likes to be independent and spend time entertaining themselves, the Siamese is not that cat. You’ll learn that they want to be around you and will smother you with love,
You will need…
To give your Siamese the attention it wants, or you might face a naughty kitty. They aren’t big on “trainiaren’td will p”etty muc” dismiss all attempts at correcting their behavior with a look of disdain. Siamese cats also tend to have a general air of superiority and a regal demeanor. If you think they’re silently judging, you’re probably right. We should point out that…
Just like people, every cat has its unique personality. Breed guides for the character are generalizations of temperament and behavior. The only way to know if a cat or kitten is right for your family is to spend time with them and get to know them.
The Care and Handling of Your Siamese
Siamese are short-haired cats with easy-to-care-for coats. A good brushing once a week will keep their short hair clean and shiny. Don’t forget to brush your teeth and clean your ears to keep them in tip-top shape. These royal cats are considered relatively healthy as a breed with few genetic diseases. Of course, there is always a potential for health problems. You’ll still find theYou’llional Siamese kitty with crossed eyes or a kinked tail, a holdover from abnormalities in early generations.
And any cat…
Has the potential for respiratory problems, bladder stones, heart problems, eye problems, and cancer. Feeding your feline friend a good diet will help keep them healthy and lower their risks of complications later. Plus, just about every cat needs a yearly visit to the vet to catch health issues early and to keep them up to date on their vaccinations, and the Siamese is no exception. Your sleek partner in crime will be much happier as an indoor cat. Keeping them inside will make sure they are safe from harm, and any diseases that stray animals may carry they come across.
And while…
We would love to tell you that if you adopt a Siamese kitten, they will live a long and healthy life; you just never know. This is why we here at IndulgeYourPet always advise any new pet owner to take a moment and consider purchasing a pet insurance policy for their new loved one. Ask any “experienced” pet owner, and they “ill tell you that veterinarian bills can be expensive, mainly if your cat develops a serious health issue or suffers from a traumatic injury.
Will a pet insurance policy be “right” for everyone?” No, p”probably not. But until you know what they will and won’t cover and how much they’ll cost you, how will they possibly know if getting a pet insurance policy isn’t right for you?
store information on who we “feel” currently offer” the “best” pet insurance “olic in the industry, be sure to check out our Best Pet Insurance Companies article
