Introducing the Siamese Cat Breed

Siamese Cat and Kitten Central is pleased to offer this insightful Siamese Cat Facts and Information article to assist you in learning about the Siamese cat breed and deciding if a Siamese cat or kitten is the right choice for your family. Enjoy!

Siamese Cat History

Unlike many breeds of cat, the traditional (or Apple-headed) Siamese is what is known as a natural breed of cat - one that developed on its own, with no intervention from man.  His likeness has been found in written manuscripts dating back to somewhere between 1350 and 1700 but it’s likely that the breed is much older than this.  According to legend, these magnificent animals were used to guard the Buddhist temples and were only raised by the monks, therein.  The only others to raise Siamese cats were the royal family -  the Siamese cat was a sacred animal and, therefore, not for everyone.

Many legends and tales surround the Siamese cat - there were stories to explain why the Siamese cat’s vivid blue eyes were usually crossed and why there was a kink in the end of his tail.  When the breed first made its way into the west, during the mid-to-late 1800’s, these were actually desired traits and were actually advertised as ways of authenticating that the Siamese was, indeed, a purebred.  Surely no proper Siamese cat would be born without such legendary qualities! 

It was said that the crook in the Siamese cat’s tail developed as a means of holding his mistress’ rings while she bathed; the Siamese holding such a job in such high esteem that he forever kinked his tail so he would never lose the royal Princess’ rings.  Other tales say that a pair of Siamese cats were entrusted to watch over a golden goblet, once used by the Great Buddha.  When the temple monk disappeared and was gone for a long time, the male Siamese set out to search for a new monk, while the pregnant female stayed behind to guard the goblet.  So intently did she stare and squint at the goblet that her eyes became crossed and, even as exhaustion overtook her, she wound her tail tightly around the goblet so that none could steal it away.  So tightly did she wrap her tail around the goblet, that it became forever kinked.  Buddha, seeing how the little cat honored him so, was pleased and from that point on, the Siamese kittens she bore and all Siamese cats afterwards would bear the crossed eyes and kinked tail with Buddha’s blessing.

Through the years, however, the traits that the Siamese cat was once prized for, came to be known as faults and, through selective breeding, the crossed eyes and kinked tail were bred out of the Siamese breed.  Along with this selective breeding, the compact body and round apple-headed Siamese were almost bred out, with judges and breeders seeming to favor the tall and lanky wedge-headed Siamese cat.  Fortunately, some of the breeders were determined to maintain the traditional apple-head Siamese and have continued to breed and preserve the old-style cat, despite the change in trends.

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Siamese Cat Appearance

The Siamese cat is a wonder to behold, whether you prefer the traditional apple-head variety or the more modern and svelte wedge-head Siamese.  Few people can look upon this breed and not instantly recognize him; famous the world over, it’s no wonder why these beautiful felines remain a popular favorite.

What few people realize is that the Siamese cat is actually born white, but that the “pointing gene” that he is born with is heat sensitive.  As the Siamese grows older, his colder extremities darken until he has the characteristic coloring of the breed.  Amusingly, however, they are genetically black cats - all of their color simply manifests at their pointed areas.

There are two styles of Siamese cat in existence: the traditional Siamese, or applehead Siamese has a more compact, cobby body type, whereas the more modernized wedgehead Siamese is long and lithe with a definite wedge-shape to his head.  The wedge-head has become more popular amongst show cats and breeders, though the traditional style has been making a comeback amongst those who prefer the Siamese as a pet.

Show Siamese are only recognized in four colors: the seal point, chocolate point, blue point and lilac point, though breeders have developed numerous other colors, such as the lynx or tabby-pointed Siamese.  While these may be of Siamese stock, they are recognized as shorthairs and not as show-quality Siamese. 

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Siamese Cat Grooming

Being a cat breed with a soft, short, shiny coat, the Siamese cat requires minimal grooming. Like any cat breed, owners need to regularly clip their cat's nails to keep them short. This prevents your cat getting a nail snagged in your furniture or draperies, as well as keeping you and your family from getting accidentally scratched by your Siamese. Other than that, Siamese cats simply require a good weekly brushing to keep dead hairs at bay, and help distribute the natural oils that keep the Siamese coat gleaming.

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Quick Siamese Cat Facts

Country of Origin: Thailand (Siam)
Siamese Cat Size: Small to Medium
Siamese Cat Weight: 7-12 pounds
Siamese Cat Colors:  Seal point Siamese, chocolate point Siamese, blue point Siamese and lilac point Siamese,
Breeders have developed numerous other colors, such as the lynx point siamese, tabby point Siamese and others.
Siamese Cat Types: Applehead Siamese (Traditional Siamese)
Wedgehead Siamese
Siamese Cat Litter Size: 3-5
Siamese Cat Life Expectancy: 15+ years
Siamese Cat Grooming Needs: Moderate
Siamese Cat Energy Level: Moderate to High
Good With Kids: Yes
Good With Other Animals: Yes  
Most Common Misspellings: Simese, Siamees, Simeese
Alternate Names:

Siamese Cat FAQ

Do Siamese Cats Shed ?

Yes, Siamese cats do shed, and they need regular brushing to keep their thick, soft coat shiny and free of dander and dead hairs. While the Siamese cat does shed fairly frequently, this weekly brushing will help keep it under control and prevent the majority of light buff hairs from transferring to all of your dark clothing.

Are Siamese Cats Hypoallergenic (Allergy Free)?

No, but there really is no true "hypoallergenic" cat breed, despite what some might say. There are cat breeds that have less of a tendency to cause allergic reactions in those allergic to feline dander, but there are no guarantees. Depending on the severity of your cat allergy, you may be able to live with a Siamese cat, provided that you bathe your cat frequently to reduce dander, and use a really good vacuum cleaner with a hepa filter every few days to ensure that cat hair and dander is kept to a minimum. It's also a good idea to keep kitty out of the bedroom.

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Siamese Cat Breed Pictures

A picture is worth a thousand words, and our growing gallery of Siamese cat pictures and kitten photos is well worth a peek! We showcase photos of Siamese cats and kittens from reputable Siamese breeders who are members of Cats and Kittens Central, as well as images sent to us by our visitors. Feel free to purr-uze our Siamese pictures gallery by clicking here!

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Siamese Cat Personality Temperament

There is no cat quite like the Siamese.  Known for his sometimes aloof and regal bearing, this beautiful cat is also known as one of the more vocal breeds of cat in the world.  Those who have had the good fortune of owning a Siamese will usually vouch that this unique breed literally “talks” to people.  They will vocalize when they are happy, when they are upset, when they play or even when greeting you at the door - they are the proverbial “Chatty Cathy” of the cat world.

The outgoing personality doesn’t end there, however.  In fact, the Siamese is a very open and well-behaved individual with other animals and children alike, provided he is raised in a household where he is acclimated to such things.  Rather than being nasty-tempered, if a Siamese is annoyed by rough puppy play or the grasping hands of a child, they are more likely to flick their tail and promptly remove themselves from their presence, rather than resorting to using paws or teeth. 

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Siamese Cat Health

An ancient breed, the Siamese is generally healthy and long lived. As with any purebred cat breed, care must be taken when selecting a breeder to ensure that the breeder is breeding responsibly by health testing cats prior to breeding to ensure than any genetic defects are not present which can be passed on to litters of kittens.

Health problems that can occur in the Siamese cat breed include, but are not limited to the following:

• Susceptible to respiratory infections and pneumonia
• Feline Megacolon
• Pancreatitis
• Kidney disease
• Premature tooth loss
• Some breathing problems

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Is the Siamese Cat or Kitten the Right Choice for You?

If you believe that a cat should be seen and not heard, the Siamese is definitely not the breed for you - very vocal, these cats can be downright demanding with their calls and this can grate on the nerves of any who do not appreciate a very vocal cat.  The Siamese is also a very friendly, people-oriented cat though he can be somewhat wary of strangers.  If you’re looking for a good family cat, chances are that you won’t find one much better than the classic Siamese.  Most who gaze into her crystal blue eyes fall captive to this beautiful and engaging little feline.

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Siamese Cat Breeders & Siamese Cats Kittens For Sale

Responsible Siamese cat breeders offer healthy, home-raised Siamese kittens for sale to approved buyers. If you have your heart set on a purebred Siamese kitten, a responsible breeder is usually the best source. Reputable Siamese catteries focus on producing kittens that are healthy and free from common cat diseases and hereditary (congenital) health problems that can affect the Siamese cat breed. In addition, responsible Siamese breeders try their best to produce kittens that are as beautiful to behold as they are affectionate and sound in personality and temperament.

Siamese Cat Kitten Prices

Siamese cat prices vary according the the breeder, and the kitten you are considering. Usually pet quality Siamese kittens cost between $500 and $1000 to purchase, while show quality Siamese kittens can be considerably more expensive. Keep in mind that the price involved in purchasing a kitten from a reputable breeder generally includes health screening, vaccinations, de-worming, early socialization (so the kitten grows up to be of sound temperament and affectionate nature), ongoing advice and support - and - most importantly - a reasonable health guarantee.

Siamese Cats and Kittens Central is proud to showcase a number of reputable Siamese cat breeders on our Siamese cat breeders directory. To view information, contact details and photos of available Siamese kittens for sale, please click here to view our Siamese cattery list.

Siamese Rescue Organizations

Siamese cat rescue organizations specialize in placing purebred Siamese cats and kittens, as well as mixed Siamese cats and kittens with loving owners. Siamese cats and kittens can end up in shelters and rescues for a variety of reasons, and there are many purrfectly nice Siamese or Siamese mix cats and kittens waiting to be adopted into loving homes.

Siamese Cats and Kittens Central is pleased to provide a directory of Siamese cat rescues to help you locate one near you. To view information, contact details and photos of available Siamese cats and kittens, please click here to view our Siamese cat rescue guide.

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Siamese Cat Clubs

Siamese cat breed clubs can be an excellent resource for learning more about the Siamese cat breed, finding a reputable Siamese cat breeder, locating Siamese rescues, viewing Siamese pictures and more. You'll often find a schedule for cat shows, in case you want to attend a show near you, and meet Siamese breeders and their cats in person.

Siamese Cats and Kittens Central is pleased to provide a directory of Siamese cat clubs to help you locate one near you. Please click here to view our Siamese cat clubs guide.

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1000 Cat Names
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Siamese Cat Kitten Names

Finding a suitable name for your new Siamese cat or kitten can be a daunting task and not something to be taken lightly. Your Siamese will be saddled with the name you give it for many years to come, so it's a good idea to give plenty of thought and consideration to the name you choose. 

If you would like some unique Siamese cat kitten names suggestions to help you get started, our Cat Names guide is an excellent resource. Click here to view our Siamese cat names guide.

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