One of the most recognizable breeds of cat is the Siamese. This is attributed to their distinct coloring and popularity in films and television shows.
If you’re considering adopting one of these cats, you need to know about their personalities first to determine if they’re going to mesh well with your lifestyle and family. You should also be aware of medical concerns to keep them as healthy as possible.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know if you want to get a Siamese cat.
Siamese Cat Physical Traits
Here’s how you can recognize a Siamese cat:
- Short fur with no undercoat
- Light brown to creamy-white body with points of color on legs, ears, face, and tail
- Color points can be calico, tabby, or solid brown, blue, lilac, or chocolate
- Blue, almond-shaped eyes
- Between 6 to 10 pounds
- Long narrow body
- Large ears and a long, narrow nose
What’s interesting about their coloring is it’s caused by a genetic mutation exclusive to this breed. Other breeds that have points have been cross-bred with Siamese cats to create the look.
Even more interesting is that the mutation is triggered by temperature. Kittens are born solid white, then develop color on their extremities over the next couple of weeks. For that reason, Siamese cats in cooler climates tend to have darker coats compared to those that live in warmer areas.
Siamese Cat Personality Traits
Although they’re beautiful, it’s their personality that has endeared the Siamese to many people and helped them become such a popular breed of cat.
The Siamese is one of the friendliest cat breeds. They love spending time with their owners and hate being left alone. Some even suffer from depression when they’re on their own for too long.
They’re also intelligent and talkative. If you’re looking for a cat that’s easy to train that you can have a conversation with, then the Siamese could be the right breed for you.
Medical Concerns of the Siamese Cat
Unfortunately for Siamese cat owners, there are a few medical concerns that this breed has. While responsible breeders have solved some of this cat’s problems over the years, a few remain. Most of these show up later in life, so it’s already been passed to the next generation before it’s discovered.
Siamese cats are prone to:
- Mammary cancer
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Lung infections (particularly in kittens)
Additionally, Siamese cats have limited night vision that’s part of the genetic mutation which causes their fur pattern. For this reason, Siamese cats should be kept inside unless they go out in a “catio” or on a leash, especially in the evening.
Is a Siamese Right for You?
The Siamese breed is great for people who are willing and able to spend a lot of time with their pets. If you’re not home often, consider getting a pair of Siamese cats so they can keep each other company when you’re not there.
You’ll also need to make sure you provide plenty of activities for your Siamese cat. As an intelligent breed, they need mental stimulation through interactions and play. Otherwise, they may become bored and destructive or start getting into things they shouldn’t!
The only other thing to keep in mind when considering a Siamese is that they’re vocal, so be prepared to be made aware of everything that’s going on in your cat’s life. People who love cats for their quiet nature will probably want to consider a different breed.
Don’t forget to sign up for pet insurance for your Siamese cat. This will help cover them for all of their regular check-ups and any emergencies you might face. Plus, you’ll be prepared if they have any of the health problems we mentioned.
Want More Breed Spotlights?
Now you know more about the Siamese cat and can see if they would be a good fit for you and your family.
If you’d like to consider some other cat breeds, take a look at our other breed spotlights posts, including this one on Ragdolls. These cats have many of the personality traits of the Siamese but are much larger and furrier.
The post Breed Spotlight: The Siamese Cat appeared first on PetFirst.
