Known for their striking points and tanzanite-blue eyes, the Siamese cat is a fairish-sized, slender, and sophisticated cat hailing from Thailand. Also fondly known as “Meezer,” due to overly vocal behavior, this furball has a loud, low-pitched voice often compared to a cry of a human baby. Adding its affectionate, intelligent, and social side, the Siamese cat thrives in human companionship and loves to spend time with people, but any family looking to have them should always be ready for lengthy conversations.
Origin of the Siamese Cat
Siamese cats trace their roots from Thailand, a country which was called Siam until 1939. Regarded as one of the oldest breeds in the cat fancy, it is believed that these felines originated around as early as the 14th century when they were first recorded in Thai writing. Some historians say that these cats served as Buddhist monks’ companions, while others believe they were pets of the royal people.
While their exact origin is shrouded by mystery, their journey to being known outside their home country started in 1884. During the said year, King Rama V gave a breeding pair of Siamese cats to Edward Blencowe Gould, an English consul-general assigned in Bangkok. He brought the cats into England as a gift to her sister, and the cats became instant stars in the town.
Given their sophisticated Oriental look, Siamese cats catapulted in popularity, and many people longed to own the elegant breed. The Siamese cat won its first championship in 1898. During the next few years, more of these felines were imported and developed extensively, serving as the modern-day Siamese cats’ foundation.
Physical Characteristics of the Siamese Cat
Length: 15 to 20 inches, excluding the tail
Weight: 11 to 15 pounds (Males) 8 to 12 pounds (Females)
Life Expectancy: 8 to 15 years
Coat Color: Seal point, blue point, blue point, chocolate point, lilac point
Type of Coat: Short, fine, and glossy
Eye Color: Blue
Siamese cats are elegant-looking cats, characterized by a long body, nose, neck, legs, and tail. They are fairish-sized but boast a nicely muscled, but sleek physique. The head is triangular-shaped, with large, tall ears sitting atop, completing a long triangle. Their eyes are striking, almond-shaped, and blue. Meanwhile, their coat is short, fine, and glossy, with distinct points, having a pale body color, but with darker fur on the face, ears, tail, and feet. All points gently blend to the color of the body.
Siamese Cat Personality
While other feline breeds love to show their affection through sweet rubs and friendly purrs, the Siamese cats think otherwise. These talkative furballs are not for owners looking for a quiet companion. These cats are chatty and opinionated and have innate talents in conveying whatever is in their minds and using their loud, grating voice. They will not stop until their families engage in a lengthy discussion.
Their vocal behavior seems intimidating, but Siamese cats are regarded as one of the most loving cats in the cat fancy. They thrive in companionship and are very dependent on their families. Meezer, as they are fondly called, will seek involvement in whatever their families are doing. These cats will follow them from room to room, sit on their lap as they watch television, or get under the covers as they sleep at night, literally being with their humans everywhere.
Being highly gregarious, Siamese is not the type of cat breed that will be content to be patted on the head in the morning before their owner leaves the house and left alone for extended periods. They yearn for social interaction and can quickly become anxious without any company.
Nevertheless, these furballs are intelligent and are even smart enough to find other naughty things to do and wreak havoc, and if their owners don’t keep them busy. Regular playtime and interaction are essential for their optimum mental and emotional health. Once they get the attention they rightfully deserve, they’d be happy to return the affection to their loving human families.
Caring for the Siamese Cat
Siamese cats’ short coat requires minimal upkeep. Brushing them weekly is enough to ward dirt, debris, and hairballs away, distribute skin oils, and keep their fur healthy. Other grooming routines include regular nail trimming every 10 to 14 days, weekly teeth brushing to prevent periodontal disease, and ear and eye cleaning to rule out any signs of infection, and clean any dirt build-up.
As an active and playful breed, Siamese cats have a big heart for play. Providing them with puzzle toys and teaser toys is an excellent way to keep their bodies and minds stimulated. Siamese cats can resort to other forms of entertainment when baffled, such as playing with tissue paper rolls or keyboards. It is best to keep them active to avoid those mischiefs.
Highly sociable, these furballs have no issues living with children, dogs, and other pets. However, toddlers must be acquainted with treating these cats politely and gently, while other animals should be appropriately introduced at a young age. Any mistreatment can evoke a defensive response not only from the Siamese cat but with any feline breed.
Keeping Siamese cats as indoor-only companionship can protect them from outdoor accidents, wild animal attacks, diseases, infections from other cats, or being stolen.
As for their health, they are generally sturdy, but like other feline breeds, they are common specific health conditions common to them, such as cross-eyes, respiratory disease, liver problems, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Getting preventative care, proper immunization, good nutrition, and regular vet consultations are great ways to keep them in optimum health.
Siamese cats are talkative cats, which can be intimidating for some. However, they can be ideal pets for owners looking to have an affectionate, playful, and chatty busybody whom they can spend time and talk to throughout their day.