The Siamese: graceful and super smart! Siamese on a Petrebels Scratching Post Siamese cats are still very popular among cat lovers. And that’s not surprising because they are beautiful, affectionate, and friendly. Want to learn more about this cat breed – care, character, and health? Here we tell you everything!
In this blog:
- The origins of the Siamese
- The character of the Siamese
- The appearance and coat of a Siamese
- The care of the Siamese
- The health of a Siamese
- How long does a Siamese live?
- Buying a Siamese (kitten)
- Some fun facts about Siamese cats
1. The origin of the Siamese
The Siamese is one of the oldest cat breeds to be recognized. This breed was already seen in Thailand at the beginning of the 14th century. It was previously known as Siam, which is where the name “Siamese” comes from. The first cats were brought from Thailand to France and England at the end of the 18th century.
The appearance of the Siamese has changed somewhat over time. This is due to the fact that breeders have increasingly focused on extreme characteristics. As a result, the modern Siamese has longer, thinner legs, very large ears, and a long skull with a long nose. This gives the cat a distinctive and beautiful appearance. However, this breeding method is not ideal for the cats – they are developing more and more diseases and conditions. We will discuss this further later in this blog.
These cat trees are ideal for Siamese cats!
2. The Character of the Siamese
Siamese cats are social animals that focus on the group they live with. This includes other cats and animals in the house, as well as their owners. They also love attention and aren’t afraid to ask for it. They are smart, find everything interesting, and are sensitive to all kinds of stimuli. For example, Siamese cats do not like loud noises.
Siamese cats love cuddling, chatting, and playing. They also have a lot of energy, so these cats need stimulation in the form of play with their owners, with other cats, intelligent cat toys, and a challenging cat tree. Because Siamese cats don’t like being alone, it’s especially important to adopt another cat if you have a Siamese.
3. The Appearance and Coat of the Siamese
Siamese cats are long, muscular, and have a triangular head. Their eyes are almond-shaped and often light blue. Their ears are large and widely spaced on their head. This breed also has a long neck, a long and slender tail, and a short, fine coat. A Siamese cat is of average size and can weigh between 3 and 5 kilograms.
The coat color of a Siamese is quite unique. These cats have partial albinism, which means they have no pigments in large areas of their bodies. As a result, they are mostly white or cream-colored. Kittens of this breed are also born completely white. However, as they grow, the points (the muzzle, the tip of the tail, and the paws) darken in color. According to the breed standard, there are many variations in patterns and colors. But the most common colors are:
- Seal
- Chocolate
- Blue
- Lilac
- Red
- Cinnamon
- Caramel
- Cream
- Fawn
- Apricot
- Foreign white
Siamese cats love to chat – with you, their fellow cats, and even with themselves!
4. The Care of the Siamese
Although the coat of a Siamese cat doesn’t require much, this breed will really appreciate a weekly brushing. They enjoy it. Their ears, however, do need attention, as they are large and can get dirty quickly. Additionally, this breed mainly needs love and lots of attention. It also requires a safe home, good food, fresh water, protection against parasites, vaccinations, and regular veterinary check-ups. Also:
- Toys and a comfortable cat bed
- Clean litter boxes with good litter
- A cat tree specifically for a Siamese
5. The Health of the Siamese
Pedigree cats are bred for unique characteristics. The Siamese also has traits that make it special, such as:
- Narrow and pointed muzzle
- Long and thin legs
- Large ears
Do you think a Siamese would be a good fit for you? Then make sure to do thorough research into the health of this breed. Many pedigree cats are prone to hereditary conditions. Siamese cats, for example, are at high risk for Hip Dysplasia and other unpleasant conditions. It’s important to be aware of this.
Want to bring a healthy cat into your home? Ask a veterinarian for advice. You can also consult the websites of Dier & Recht and the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, as they provide information on the breed’s health, whether it’s allowed, and the rules for breeders.
Always buy a Siamese from a reliable breeder, preferably one who is affiliated with a breed association. This ensures that the cat is healthy and well cared for. Also, ask the breeder for a health certificate or guarantee for extra peace of mind.
6. How long does a Siamese live?
Because Siamese cats often suffer from various conditions, you can expect a life expectancy of 8 to a maximum of 12 years. But of course, there are always exceptions.
7. Buying a Siamese (kitten)
Want to buy a Siamese? Then go to a recognized breeder, preferably one who is affiliated with a breed association. This ensures that you are buying a healthy, well-socialized cat that has been bred in a humane way. Always ask for the papers, a health certificate, and check the kitten’s parents. Also, take a look at the living conditions: is it clean and homely, and are the parents present? That’s a good sign. Don’t buy cats through platforms like Marktplaats, eBay, or from backstreet breeders.
A Siamese from a good breeder costs about 900 euros. Looking for a cat, but it doesn’t have to be a pedigree? Then consider looking at shelters or adoption agencies. Many sweet cats are waiting for a loving home.
And remember: you’re not getting a cat for just a short time, but for its entire life. Are you ready to take good care of the animal and set aside money for its care and veterinary visits? Then the Siamese could very well become your new best friend!
Find out here how much it costs to care for a cat
8. Some fun facts about Siamese cats
- These celebrities have a Siamese cat: John Lennon, Andy Warhol, James Dean, Marilyn Monroe, Ricky Gervais, and Taylor Swift.
- In the past, Siamese cats had crossed eyes and crooked tails. Thankfully, that’s no longer the case.
- In 1970, an English Siamese gave birth to a staggering 19 kittens. That’s a world record.
Also interesting: read everything about the Siberian cat here!
Disclaimer: Petrebels does not consist of veterinarians or behavioral experts: all content, information and tips on this blog are intended to inspire and inform you. Does your cat have complaints or problems and do you have doubts about your cat’s health? Then always go to the vet or a behavioral expert.
