Siamese

The Siamese is one of the first distinctly recognised cat breeds — a slender, vocal, colourpoint cat with striking blue eyes.

History

It was bred from the Wichianmat landrace of Thailand and recognised in the West from the end of the nineteenth century. Its colourpoint coat comes from a temperature-sensitive form of albinism, which is why the points darken on the cooler ends of the body.

Temperament

The breed is known for being intensely social, talkative and people-focused — a cat that holds conversations and dislikes being left alone. It is active and intelligent, and wants a part in the household.

Care

The short coat is easy to keep; the real commitment is company, because a lone Siamese is an unhappy one. It stays playful and engaged well into adulthood.

Health

Known tendencies include dental and respiratory issues and certain inherited conditions tied to the slender build. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one cat; the measured facts and trait ratings are in the panels.