Middle Age: 8 years
Siamese cat life expectancy: 15 – 20 years
Siamese cats, known for their personalities, color points, and striking blue eyes, are a sweet, smart addition to your family. However, before deciding to add a Siamese cat to your home, you first should know some of the most critical things about this cat breed.
The Siamese Cats’ History
This breed is some of the oldest domesticated felines, which date back to Thailand, their country of origin. They received their name because modern Thailand was, at one time, referred to as Siam. These beautiful animals were immediately regarded as royalty due to their striking appearance. As a matter of fact, only royal members were allowed to have one, which dubbed them “Royal Cats of Siam.” Records vary of when this breed came over to the western world, yet these days, all major feline fancier associations recognize this cat breed.
Siamese Cat Size and Siamese Cat Appearance
How big do Siamese cats get? Generally, Siamese cats are medium-sized, with females topping the scales at 8 lbs. and males ranging from 8 to 12 lbs. They’re more notably characterized by their gorgeous blue eyes, which sometimes are cross-eyed, a genetic tendency of this cat breed. Also, Siamese cats are well-known for their kinked, long tails which they’ll frequently wrap around tables, lamps, or their owners’ legs. In addition, this breed has straight, long noses and long body types.
There are 2 distinct kinds of Siamese cats that showers and breeders recognize. The first one is the more traditional one with a triangular, wedge-shaped head and a skinny, long body. This kind of Siamese cat is the cat which dates back to modern Thailand. The second kind of Siamese cat came about more recently and often is referred to as Appleheads because their body is stockier, their head is rounder, and they typically have longer hair. The cats might’ve been the result of cross breeding between Persian or Himalayan cats and Siamese cats.
Generally, Siamese kittens have smooth, short coats and are available in various colors. Although, they’re known for their pointed pattern, meaning that their ears, nose, paws, and tail are a darker shade than their body. They may be red, blue, lilac, seal, or chocolate pointed.
Siamese Cat Temperament and Siamese Cat Personality
Like the royalty they came from, the Siamese cat personality is very intelligent, caring, and dignified. They’re well-known for their capability of learning tricks, and they love to place their athletic, long bodies to use. They often can be found hopping on counters, on beds, or on cat trees. They’re an excellent companion to cat owners who want a friendly, loyal friend.
They need more attention and do not enjoy being left alone for lengthy time periods and may develop separation anxiety. If you own a Siamese cat and work in the daytime, you may want to consider getting your pet another cat friend. They are are social and like to love. They’re also very verbal and are well-known to share their opinion with anybody who’ll listen. They’re excellent for pet owners wanting a social butterfly.
Siamese Cat Health Issues
Because these felines have wedge-shaped heads, they’re more susceptible to dental and respiratory issues. They also are known for their genetic eye issues, which includes glaucoma and progressive retinal atrophy. Below we list some typical health problems this breed is vulnerable to.
Respiratory Issues
Typical respiratory issues like upper respiratory infections and FVR (feline viral rhinotracheitis) present themselves in younger Siamese kitties and quickly can be treated. In keeping your kitten updated on vet vaccines and appointments, it’s possible to assist in preventing this condition.
Eye Issues
Around 1/3 of these cats have a mutated gene related to progressive retinal atrophy. Thankfully, your pet probably will not exhibit symptoms if they just have the single gene, yet if two carriers have kitties, they have a greater chance. Additional Siamese cat eye issues involve Siamese Nystagmus or feline glaucoma. Siamese Nystagmus is frequently viewed as normal and doesn’t present health risks.
