With their smooth light and dark fur, and striking blue eyes, Siamese cats are an instantly recognizable and effortlessly beautiful cat that can also be a wonderful pet.

History and Origins

The exact origins of the Siamese cat are not clearly recorded, but they do come from south-east Asia, and possibly from Thailand. Siam is an old British colonial name for Thailand.

It is possible that the modern Siamese cat is descended from Royal or temple cats that were believed to act as guards against evil spirits, and carriers of good fortune.

Siamese cats were first seen outside south-east Asia in 1884, when a British official returned from Siam with a breeding pair. By all accounts their appearance and lively behaviour produced quite a stir in the English cat world of the time.

It wasn’t long before the Siamese cat appeared in America, and it has grown in popularity ever since to become one of the top three most popular cat breeds in the western world.

Colour and Form

The “classic” Siamese cat has a light body with seal-brown paws, legs, face, ears and tail. This variety is known as seal point. However, there are now over 30 different varieties of Siamese cat with names as intriguing as blue point, caramel tortie point, apricot point and lilac tabby point to name a few.

A Siamese cat’s body is a fine balance of athletic and muscular. They are not the largest of cats, but are robust and heavier than they look.

Their fur is short, flat and smooth. Not only does it look beautiful, it is really easy to keep beautiful. A quick brush and the odd bath should keep it in top condition.

Personality and Behaviour

It has been said that Siamese cats truly believe the world was created for their benefit, and revolves around them. It is probably also fair to say they truly believe humans were created for their benefit, and should also revolve around them!

They are very active, playful, noisy cats that hate to be left alone. Having a Siamese cat as a single cat in a household that is empty for long periods is totally unsuitable.

They are happy with the company of other Siamese cats, but will bully the more relaxed and less extroverted breeds.

In a family setting Siamese cats play their full part, and will often bond with one human in particular. This bond will extend to fierce loyalty, leaving any other cat that wants a piece of that human’s affection with a battle on its hands.

If you want a great friend, get a Siamese cat.

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