Siamese

One of the first distinctly recognised breeds of Asian cat, the Siamese originates from Thailand, then called Siam, and in the 19th Century, was one of the most popular breeds across both Europe and North America. In 1884 the British Consul-General in Bangkok brought a pair of cats, Pho and Mia, back to Britain as a gift for his sister Lilian Gould, who went on to co-found the Siamese Cat Club in 1901.  

Recognised for their distinctive markings, the term Siamese is now used to refer to a variety of cats of the same colour pattern. The Siamese cat is known as the ‘pointed pattern’ and is caused by a mutation in the enzyme involved in melanin production. The mutated enzyme is heat-sensitive - in that it doesn’t work at normal body temperatures but becomes active at the lower temperatures on the extremities of the body. This means the fur on those cooler areas is much darker than the fur on the warmer parts. Siamese kittens are born pure white or cream and as the fur grows and is affected by the enzyme, the coloured points develop.  

Although fit and athletic, the Siamese cat’s nosey nature, loud cry, and striking appearance mean they are at risk of theft, and at risk of making themselves a nuisance to neighbours, so a secure garden or cat run is vital. If kept indoors, expect to provide a lot of toys and cat trees to keep your Siamese amused and entertained.  

Intelligent and excellent problem solvers, with a strong attachment to one person and a desire to be with that person, the Siamese is not always an easy cat to live with unless you are prepared to give a lot of ‘cattention’. Lots of cat trees and opportunities to climb, food puzzles to solve, and interactive play with their owner will be necessary to keep them satisfied and content. This breed is not suited to busy homes or where everyone is out for long periods, and it may be better to get two to keep each other company, on the understanding that both will still need to be entertained and amused daily!  

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle, and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.  

Easily groomed, the Siamese cat is a clean and tidy animal — a simple brush through with a bristle brush and a wipe down with a damp cloth from time to time will keep them in top condition and give you an opportunity to check for parasites or small injuries.  

As with all breeds, Siamese cats benefit from protection against disease through vaccination and need regular parasite control and annual veterinary health checks.  

Suited to those who love a rather extreme cat, with a strong personality, loud nature, and sensitive temperament. Also, the Siamese cat personality is outgoing so they need someone home most of the day, and experienced in the breed’s foibles and quirks — or prepared to learn quickly! Not particularly suited to homes with small children, they are really too demanding and opinionated to get along well with anyone who competes for their owner’s attention.