ORIGIN
Thailand
HEIGHT
20-25 cm
LIFE SPAN
15-20 years
ADULT WEIGHT
3.5-5.5 kg
TEMPERAMENT
Extroverted, talkative, intelligent, fun-loving
GROUP
Small to medium-sized short-haired
Personality and Temperament
The Siamese cat’s beautiful blue eyes contribute to the breed’s stunning appearance. Since looks aren’t everything, it’s important to note that the Siamese cat is highly intelligent and more than a little curious. These cats keep their families amused with their antics and they are usually more than happy to learn simple tricks. Playing fetch is a favorite pastime, and outdoor walks on leashes are often enjoyed, as well.
If you’ve been looking for a cat that likes to talk back to you, consider the Siamese. Among the most vocal of all breeds, these chatty cats love nothing more than to spend time alongside their favorite people, eagerly offering advice and opinions about everything that happens throughout the day.
Siamese Care
Essential Care Strategies for Your Siamese
HISTORY
The Siamese cat is a natural aristocrat, originally bred in the kingdom of Siam, which we know as Thailand today. Because these cats were considered sacred in ancient Siam, only members of royalty and Buddhist monks were allowed to keep them.
The breed was first described in the ancient Tamra Maew manuscripts also known as The Cat-Book Poems, which was curated during the Ayutthaya Kingdom between 1351 and 1767.
1. Grooming
Thanks to their short, single layer coats, Siamese cats are very easy to care for. Simply give your cat a good rubdown with your fingers once or twice per week to remove any loose hair and cut back on shedding. In addition, you might want to use a chamois cloth or a silk scarf to polish your cat's coat to a gleaming shine.
Last but not least, consider clipping your cat's claws. Siamese cats have a tendency to use their front paws like hands, getting into drawers and cupboards. Keeping their toenails clipped can help prevent damage to your furniture.
2. Nutrition
The Siamese cat has no special nutritional needs, however it is vital to offer a high-quality diet that is appropriate for your cat's life stage.
A diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates can help prevent obesity, particularly later in life.
3. Exercise
The Siamese is a naturally playful, active cat with a tendency to seek high places. Provide a tall cat tree to satisfy the natural urge to jump and climb, and take time out to offer interactive play sessions.
Siamese cats enjoy all kinds of toys, particularly those that stimulate the mind. For example, a puzzle toy that dispenses treats is likely to be a favorite with any Siamese.
4. Health
Siamese tend to be very healthy cats and many enjoy exceptionally long lives, often surviving into their 20s. Even so, there are several potential health concerns to be aware of including respiratory infections and a type of heart disease called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Siamese are prone to central nervous system diseases, including psychogenic alopecia, a condition that leads to excessive grooming that causes hair loss. Some also suffer from feline hyperesthesia syndrome, which causes oversensitive skin.
