All You Need To Know

Owning a Siamese

Siamese cats are iconic, captivating cat lovers with their striking appearance and lively personalities. With sleek bodies, stunning blue almond-shaped eyes, and distinct colour-point patterns, they are among the most beautiful breeds. But it’s not just their looks that endear them;

Siamese cats are known for their affectionate, vocal, and social nature. They thrive on human interaction, forming strong bonds with their families and often following their owners around. Their playful antics and intelligence make them endlessly entertaining, ensuring they become cherished members of the household.

The allure of a Siamese cat is undeniable, making them a beloved choice for many.

At Petchef, we believe that it is the parent’s (pawrent’s) responsibility to prepare the best living conditions for their furkids. Read on to know more about the history, physical traits, personality, care requirements, and reasons why the Siamese cat may be the cat for you.

Breed overview

Personality

Affectionate, vocal, social, and intelligent

Weight

3.5-7 kgs (8-15 pounds)

Length

Medium

Coat length

Short

Coat color

Seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac

Coat patterns

Colourpoint

Eye color

Blue

Lifespan

Up to 12 years

Hypoallergenic

No

Origin

Thailand

Personality & Characteristics

Siamese cats are affectionate, vocal, and intelligent companions, renowned for their captivating personalities. They thrive on interaction, often following their owners around and engaging in playful antics that keep their families entertained.

Known for their distinctive, loud meows, they love to “talk” back to their humans. With unique quirks like kneading and a tendency to exhibit jealousy when sharing attention, these lively cats become devoted members of the household, bringing joy and affection to those lucky enough to have them.

Affection level

High

Friendliness

High

Kid-Friendly

High

Pet-Friendly

High

Exercise needs

High

Playfullness

High

Energy level

High

Trainability

High

Intelligence

High

Tendency to Vocalize

High

History & Origin

Siamese cats originated in Thailand (formerly Siam), where they were considered sacred temple cats and royal companions. Dating back to the 14th century, they were featured in ancient manuscripts, often depicted as guardians of temples. Folklore suggests that they had the duty of protecting sacred treasures, wrapping their tails around precious vases.

Their unique appearance, including crossed eyes, was thought to symbolize their noble lineage. Introduced to the West in the late 19th century, Siamese cats quickly gained popularity, enchanting cat lovers with their striking beauty and vibrant personalities, cementing their status as beloved pets worldwide.

Grooming & Care

Siameses have a luxurious, long coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in top condition. Here’s a breakdown of their grooming and care needs:

  • Brushing:

    Siamese cats have short coats, so they require minimal brushing—about once a week is usually sufficient. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and reduces shedding, keeping their coat shiny and healthy. It also provides an opportunity to check for any skin issues or parasites.

  • Bathing:

    Siamese cats generally do not require frequent baths due to their short, low-maintenance coats. Bathing once every few months is usually enough, or as needed if they get particularly dirty. Use a mild cat shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing to avoid skin irritation. Be sure to dry them well afterward, as they may not enjoy being wet.

  • Nail Trimming:

    Every 2-4 weeks helps prevent overgrowth and potential injury from sharp claws. Scratching posts also help them sharpen their claws in between trims.

  • Ear Cleaning:

    Check their ears weekly for dirt or wax buildup. Clean with a damp cloth or a vet-recommended ear cleaner, but avoid inserting anything into the ear canal.

  • Dental Care:

    Use a cat-specific toothbrush (or finger) and toothpaste to brush every 2-3 weeks, ideally everyday.

Common Health Issues

Siamese cats can be more prone to certain health problems compared to some other breeds, particularly due to their genetic predispositions. Ranking from least to most serious would be:

  • Asthma:

    A chronic respiratory condition causing inflammation in the airways, resulting in wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing, often triggered by allergens or environmental factors.

  • Nystagmus:

    This condition leads to involuntary eye movement, which can affect a cat's vision and depth perception, potentially causing disorientation and difficulty focusing.

  • Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome:

    Characterised by heightened sensitivity and irritability, affected cats may exhibit obsessive grooming, twitching skin, and erratic behaviour, often linked to stress or anxiety.

  • Amyloidosis:

    A serious condition where abnormal protein deposits accumulate in organs, particularly the liver or kidneys, leading to dysfunction and potentially life-threatening consequences.

  • Megaesophagus:

    This disorder affects the esophagus's ability to move food to the stomach, causing regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and potential aspiration pneumonia if food enters the lungs.

  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy:

    A genetic degenerative disease causing gradual vision loss and potential blindness as the retina deteriorates, often without noticeable signs until significant damage occurs.

  • Cancers:

    Siamese cats have a higher predisposition to various cancers, including lymphoma and skin cancer, necessitating regular vet check-ups for early detection and treatment.

Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, adequate exercise, and maintaining a stress-free environment can help mitigate these health risks and ensure a Siamese’ overall well-being.

Diet and Nutrition

Siamese kittens require a balanced diet to maintain their large size and overall health. Here are some dietary considerations:

  • High-Quality Protein:

    Being obligate carnivores (meaning their diet primarily consists of meat), Siamese cats need a diet rich in high-quality animal protein.

  • Balanced Nutrition:

    Ensure the cat food provides a balanced mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

  • Portion Control:

    Siamese cats are prone to obesity, so it's important to monitor their food intake and avoid overfeeding. Follow the feeding guidelines on the cat food packaging and adjust based on your cat's activity level and weight.

  • Fresh Water:

    Always provide access to fresh, clean water. Consider using a cat water fountain to encourage hydration.

Starting from only RM75 a month (or RM2.50 a day), Petchef’s team of vets and chefs can curate the perfect meal plan for your furkid! Each meal contains quality meat (chicken, beef, buffalo) or fish (salmon, tuna) and vegetables to ensure your furkid fulfils all their nutritional needs. No preservatives, no additives, no fillers or grains; only food they were born to eat.

Lifestyle and Living

Living with Siameses is relatively easy because they are highly adaptable cats that can easily make themselves at home. Here are some tips for your cat to live their best life:

  • Indoor vs. Outdoor:

    Cats are generally inquisitive and curious beings. It’s great to allow them to explore the outdoors under close supervision like being on a leash or tagged/microchipped if allowed to free roam. Otherwise, a catio (or a window bird feeder) would be a safe option that also lets them “experience” the outdoors from the safety of being indoors.

  • Enrichment:

    Siameses thrive on mental and physical stimulation. Provide toys, puzzle feeders, scratching posts, and cat trees to keep them entertained. Interactive playtime with their owners is especially important, as they enjoy bonding through play and spending time with their human families. Siamese cats are intelligent, active and curious cats that can be clicker-trained as well.

  • Social Interaction:

    Siamese cats thrive on social interaction, enjoying cuddling, engaging in vocal conversations, and playful activities. They appreciate following their owners around, seeking companionship and affection throughout the day.

  • Exercise:

    Regular playtime is crucial to keep them active and healthy. Engaging them in interactive play sessions and providing climbing opportunities helps meet their exercise needs. Daily playtime is essential to keep their energy levels balanced and maintain their overall health.

Where to Adopt or Buy in Malaysia

In Malaysia, there are several options for adopting or purchasing a Siamese:

  1. Animal Shelters and Rescues: Check local animal shelters and rescue organisations. While Siameses might not be as common in shelters as domestic shorthairs, there’s still a chance of finding one in need of a loving home.
  2. Breeders: Look for reputable Siamese breeders in Malaysia and ensure they are registered with a recognized cat breeding association, follow ethical breeding practices and have done the necessary tests to screen for genetics-related health concerns. You can find breeders through online directories, cat shows, or recommendations from local veterinarians.
  3. Online Platforms: Websites and online forums (like Mudah.my) dedicated to pets often have listings for Siamese kittens or cats available for adoption or purchase. Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of sellers before making any commitments.
  4. Social Media: Platforms like Facebook or Instagram may have local groups or pages where breeders or individuals post about Siameses available for adoption or sale.

Use Diligence

When adopting or purchasing a Siamese, always prioritise the health and well-being of the cat. Ensure the seller provides health records, vaccinations, and proper documentation. It’s also essential to visit the cat in person, if possible, to assess its temperament and living conditions.

Conclusion

Owning a Siamese cat is a rewarding experience filled with love, companionship, and playful energy. Their affectionate nature, striking appearance, and engaging personalities make them perfect family pets. Siamese cats thrive on social interaction and bring joy to their owners with their playful antics. By choosing a Siamese, you invite a loyal and charming companion into your home.

Pros of Siamese cats Cons of Siamese cats
Affectionate, playful and communicative
Health concerns
Intelligent and trainable
Separation anxiety
Distinct appearance
High energy and loud vocalisation

FAQs

Most common questions about Siamese cats asked and possibly not covered by the above sections.

Starts from RM1,500 to RM3,000 or more depending on factors such as the breeder, lineage, and overall quality of the cat​.

Yes, Siamese cats are generally good with kids. They are social, affectionate, and playful, often enjoying interactive playtime and companionship with children. However, it’s essential to teach children how to handle them gently to ensure a positive relationship.

Siamese cats are special for their striking looks, affectionate nature, and playful personalities. They are highly vocal and intelligent, forming strong bonds with their owners.

Yes, Siamese cats can be considered high maintenance due to their need for social interaction, mental stimulation, and regular play. They thrive on companionship and can experience anxiety if left alone for long periods. Regular grooming and attention to their health are also important for their well-being.

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