Siamese cats have always been a favorite breed among many people, and it’s not hard to see why. They have unique features that make them easily distinguishable from other breeds. From their piercing blue eyes to their feline ballerina frame and dazzling color points, Siamese cats are incredible creatures that you just can’t help but love.
Did you know that the Siamese cat breed is one of the oldest cat breeds in the world? Even though it’s not certain where they came from, it is believed that these cats descended from Siam, now known to us as Thailand. Siamese cats were considered “sacred temple cats” and were adored by Buddhist monks who kept them as pets.
One interesting fact about Siamese cats is that they are often healthy cats who live long and healthy lives when kept indoors. Many live far beyond the average house cat, with an average lifespan of 15-20 years. In fact, one of the world’s oldest living cats was actually a Siamese cat named Scooter who lived to be 30 years old!
Siamese cats come in a variety of colors, which are referred to as “points.” Their masked appearance is a lovely contrast compared to the creamy color of their beige coats. The points are seen on their face, ears, legs, and tails, and the colors recognized are seal, lilac, chocolate, blue, smoke, red (flame), and silver.
If you’ve ever owned a Siamese cat, you know that they will talk your ear off. They are often reported as the most vocal cat breed, and they do not do well being left alone for extended periods of time. These are companion cats, and they thrive when they receive companionship in return. They are attached to their people and can easily become anxious and stressed when they feel lonely.
Another interesting fact about Siamese cats is that their baby blues stay blue. For most cats, their eyes change color as they mature, but for Siamese cats, their eyes actually stay blue due to their genetics. The gene responsible for their distinct coat pattern and points also restricts the amount of pigment that determines their eye color. And because of this restriction, their signature icy blue eye color comes as a result.
Although Siamese cats are often portrayed as aloof, outdoor cats, the truth is they are shy by nature and crave the security that indoor living offers them. They are playful and energetic with the humans they trust but are best suited for an indoor lifestyle.
The points of the Siamese are instantly recognizable and occur due to a science behind their gorgeous flames. At birth, a Siamese cat will be creamy white beige, and their flames come as they mature. Their signature points are in relation to heat, and their mother’s womb is a warm and stable environment that will not permit the enzymes that darken their fur pigment to become triggered. All Siamese cats have a gene that makes them partially albino, and the enzymes which control the color of their fur will not process in warm temperatures, but once under 100 degrees, this will invite the points to form.
In conclusion, Siamese cats are incredible creatures that come with a rich history, unique features, and interesting facts. The breed is well-loved for its beauty, intelligence, and chatty nature. If you’re a Siamese cat lover, now you know just why these furry friends are so special.
