Siamese are one of the most famous cat breeds. They feature long, slender, graceful forms with sleek lines and bold color contrasts between their pale bodies and dark points. These medium-sized cats have wedge-shaped heads and large, pointed ears that finish the wedge structure, along with captivating, slanted, almond-shaped blue eyes. While seal point is the most familiar look, Siamese may also officially be blue point, chocolate point, or lilac point.
These cats aren't generally fond of sharing items or attention with other pets, but those left alone fare better with another cat of the same breed for a companion.
These cats, which have an average lifespan of around 15 years, are highly expressive, both vocally and with their body language. Siamese are devoted lap cats. They're not known for independence and tend to follow people around, though they have bouts of stereotypical feline aloofness. This sensitive breed requires a respectful home where attention is usually available.
The Siamese's appearance and personality are well known, but the breed is probably even more famous for its voice. These cats talk a lot, and their meows and chatter tend to be of a yowling tone that some people find endearing and others find a bit off-putting.
Siamese cats of this breed are loyal and devoted to their humans, but they expect to be catered to and given plenty of attention in return. They are dependent, demanding, and highly sensitive to feeling isolated or ignored. Siamese love to interject themselves into whatever is going on and to take up residence in their humans' laps and beds.
Although not as fragile as they look, Siamese need to be treated gently. They definitely prefer not to be manhandled by young children, but they do like the company of respectful children. These cats aren't generally fond of sharing items or attention with other pets, but those left alone fare better with another cat of the same breed for a companion.
Siamese owners must be tolerant of an endlessly vocal cat with a loud raspy or yowling voice. These cats talk a lot, regardless of whether they're engaged in a monologue or a dialogue. Their talkativeness is almost matched by their intense curiosity.
Siamese are considered a healthy breed, especially in recent times, as responsible breeders have worked to exclude certain genetic problems from their bloodlines. These cats have a slightly longer-than-average lifespan of about 15 years. Keeping these cats indoors, providing a nutritionally complete diet and an appropriate number of calories, encouraging daily exercise, and getting annual veterinary checkups are effective ways to promote Siamese health and longevity.
These cats are at increased risk for periodontal disease and certain respiratory conditions seen more often in breeds with wedge-shaped heads. Two eye problems in particular, glaucoma and progressive retinal atrophy, are also concerns with Siamese. They also have a genetic predisposition to bladder stones.
This breed is genetically more susceptible to hepatic amyloidosis, too. With this condition, amyloid proteins accumulate in the liver. It causes liver problems and often affects other organs, especially the kidneys. There is no cure, but treatment can improve and extend life, though the prognosis is generally poor.
The intelligence and curiosity of Siamese cats lend themselves well to training. They can learn to walk on a leash and enjoy playing fetch. They can also be taught to perform tricks using clicker training. Puzzle toys also help keep them stimulated and entertained when they're on their own.
The same traits that make them trainable can also lead to mischief. Siamese love to explore cabinets, drawers, closets, and any other nooks and crannies they figure out how to get into. Everything they find is a potential toy. It's important to safely secure items and substances that may pose a risk to these cats.
Additionally, Siamese are much safer when kept as indoors-only pets. The outside world poses countless dangers, many of which are potentially fatal, to domestic cats. Siamese are intensely curious and especially prone to investigating such hazards.
Siamese cats have short, glossy coats that rest pressed against their bodies. Most grooming for these light shedders can be tended to with frequent petting, which removes loose hairs. Other than that, a quick combing with a stainless steel comb once per week usually suffices.
Dental care is a priority with Siamese because they are prone to gingivitis and other oral health problems. Their teeth should be brushed at least every few days using a veterinarian-recommended feline toothpaste; a veterinarian should also suggest a dental rinse or flush. Treats or dry food designed to clean the teeth and gums are advisable as well.
Like most cats, Siamese need their nails trimmed about once every two weeks. They should not be declawed, but they should have access to a scratching post or other suitable surface for maintenance of their nails. Their ears should be cleaned as needed and checked regularly for indications of an ear infection, such as a strong unpleasant odor, discharge, redness, or swelling.
Siamese hail from Thailand, which was called Siam when these cats took their name. For centuries, they were companions to the nation's royalty. They are among the cats celebrated in the famed Cat-Book Poems, circa 1350 to 1767. The breed's history is populated with lofty legends and myths, and Siamese were even believed to house the souls of deceased rulers before they proceeded to their eternal resting place.
The breed made its way to Britain sometime in the 19th century, though it's not clear exactly when. These "Royal Cats of Siam" were shown in 1871 at London's Crystal Palace. The Siamese were not well received at first, suffering bad press with labels like "unnatural" and "nightmares." Their wit and charm trumped the PR problems, though, and they quickly gained popularity.
Although not verifiable, it's believed the first Siamese cat came to America in 1878, when one was given to President Rutherford B. Hayes. By the early 20th century, Siamese were participating in American cat shows. They breed has accumulated loyal followers ever since, and it's currently on of the most popular breeds registered by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA).
Seal point Siamese were included on the original CFA breed list in 1906. The blue point achieved recognition in 1934, followed by the chocolate point, and finally the lilac point was accepted in 1955 to complete the current breed standard.
