Few cat breeds can leave such a strong first impression like the Siamese. Highly unique and historically important, these cats come from Southeast Asia, specifically Thailand, where they have enjoyed a very special status over the centuries, becoming an irreplaceable part of Thai culture. As their global popularity grew, so did the interest of cat fans around the world to learn more about this exotic and affectionate breed.
There might be some confusion regarding the name of this breed, especially with so much information available online. Namely, there are two very similar-looking cats named Thai and Siamese. This is because they are related and share some physical traits, but are still recognized as different breeds. We’ll explain why in a minute, along with the main characteristics and habits of this feline.
Exotic and luxurious looks aside, if you spend only a few minutes with a Siamese, you’ll understand the fascination people have with this creature.
Thai or Siamese?
For the history buffs out there, Thailand was called Siam until 1939, when the government officially changed the name by issuing a decree. So, while both names refer to the same territory, they describe two related, yet separate breeds.
The reason behind this is selective breeding. In the beginning, all representatives looked more or less the same as there was no crossing involved. Much later, English cat breeds introduced the Thai, originally called wichienmaat, to the West in the late 19th century. Having been crossed with other breeds, the new Siamese now looked different, particularly in the head shape, and became what is known today as the modern Siamese, with more extreme physical features.
Temple Guardians
Thailand has quite a rich and illustrious history, and being an important part of it, the Siamese are featured in poems and tales that only add to the legendary status of this feline. In fact, it is said that common folks had no access to them: only noblemen and the royals could keep them.
It’s no secret that cats were so highly esteemed in the ancient world. In Egypt, cats were believed to be magical creatures, and deities were shown with feline-like heads. In Rome, they were the only animals that could step inside a home. And in Siam, they apparently protected the ancient temples in the role of spirit guardians. Legends involving the Siamese are still being told in this part of the world.
Crossed Eyes and Kinked Tails
In the past, many Siamese cats were cross-eyed and had curved tails. While some still have these traits, it’s no longer a common appearance. But there’s a very amusing legend of how this came about.
They say that two Siamese cats were once ordered to find a royal goblet. Having found it, one stayed to guard it, and the other went back to notify the King. The guardian wrapped its tail around the goblet and stared intently at it for a long time. As a result, it got crossed eyes and a twisted tail, passing on the traits to the descendants. True or not, you have to admit this would make a great TV episode!
Love at First Sight
An exotic breed, the Siamese is quite the looker. They can reach 25 inches tops in length, usually weighing 10-15 pounds. A medium-sized feline takes a year, a year-and-a-half to develop fully. Hailing from the hot, tropical Thai climate, it’s a shorthair with a soft coat, an elongated and muscular body, and a slender neck.
One striking difference between the traditional Thai and the modern Siamese is the head shape. The former is sometimes dubbed “Applehead”, for obvious reasons, while the latter has a wedge-like shape. You could say the Thai has a moderate, more “normal” and rounded look, while its relative is more slender, and muscular, with longer ears and legs. Despite these differences, they share a very similar personality.
One very interesting phenomenon found in this breed is the color pattern, a result of genetic mutation. If you ever wondered why a perfectly white Siamese would have a black face, here’s why. This breed has partial albinism, so the cooler parts of the body are darker, like the legs, tails, ears, face, or feet. This so-called pointed color pattern can be blue, seal, lilac, or chocolate point.
Personality Traits
Though they might seem intimidating at first, the Siamese is a real sweetheart once it feels comfortable. Similarly to the Bengal or the Maine Coon, we’re dealing with a very playful, energetic, and lively creature. Rarely will you find a Siamese slumped in a corner unless it’s tired or sleeping. Their curious nature makes them natural inspectors, so be prepared to find them in the funniest of places.
Another thing that makes the Siamese a desirable pet is the ability to communicate. Whether it’s meowing, purring, cooing, or chirping, this cat can express a variety of emotions. Being naturally active, it doesn’t like boredom and can get loud when venting out frustration.
If you don’t enjoy playing games, better skip the Siamese is not for you. Intelligent and observant, they learn very fast and want to take part in many activities. It keenly follows its master’s actions and can be trained easily during kittenhood. Try to include plenty of toys as this breed loves to be entertained.
Being naturally loyal and trusting, the Siamese can have severe separation anxiety. It thrives in a home full of people, in a pair with another cat or dog, but long periods of solitude are not recommended. After all, they don’t call them the extroverts of the cat world for no reason.
Eating Habits
It’s important to keep a regular and healthy diet for the Siamese because of their delicate belly, especially when they’re young. This means choosing quality ingredients, both wet and dry, low in carbohydrates and packed with protein, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids.
Of course, they require regular physical activity to avoid gaining weight, but you don’t need too much effort around the Siamese. Being natural athletes, they can easily leave you breathless if you chase them for too long!
