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The Siamese is talkative, curious, and great for families with children and/or other pets. The breed is known for suffering from progressive retinal atrophy.
- Weight: 6-14 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 15-20 years
- Temperament: social, intelligent, affectionate
- Energy Level: 5
- Ease of Training: 2
- Grooming Requirements: 1
History of the Siamese breed
Siamese cats have a long and detailed history. They are so old, they can be traced back hundreds of years. Tamra Maew, a Thai poetry book written around the 14th century, includes an illustration featuring the breed. In 1878, a Siamese cat was sent as a gift to Lucy Ware Webb Hayes, wife of U.S. President Rutherford B. Hayes. Named “Siam,” she is known as America’s first Siamese cat.
Despite their age, they remain a favorite, known to people around the world. Elizabeth Taylor presented James Dean with a Siamese kitten in the 1950s. In 1961, the strange behavior of two Siamese cats at the Dutch Embassy in Moscow, Russia, led to the discovery of 30 microphones hidden in the walls.
Siamese cat personality traits
Siamese cats want to be the center of attention. If they are left alone for too long, they could become anxious or upset. Adopting a second cat can help keep these feelings at bay. They generally get along with children and other pets.
No matter where their owners are, this breed must be nearby. They are famous for their “talking,” filling the house with sounds all day. People seeking a quiet, calm pet should avoid this breed.
Because of their intelligence, with some patience, they can be trained. Some will walk on a leash like a dog.
Grooming requirements for the Siamese cat
Because these cats have a short coat, grooming is only necessary once or twice a week. Nails should be trimmed every 10 days. Siamese cats come in a variety of colors, including blue, chocolate, cream, and red.
Health concerns
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Bladder stones
When a Siamese cat has progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), they suffer from poor eyesight. As they age, it worsens considerably. They eventually go completely blind. There is no cure and treatment options do not exist.
Bladder stones are mineral deposits that grow inside an animal’s bladder. The “stones” rub against the walls of the bladder and block the urinary tract, making urination difficult and painful. Cats with this problem should have access to plenty of water and eat a special diet selected by a vet.
