Anyone who has ever owned a Siamese cat knows that they are very independent and have their own set of rules.
The modern Siamese cat is full of character, however, several key differences set them apart from their Traditional Siamese counterparts.
In this article, I’ll share 9 differences between the two to help you better understand which type is right for you.
What is the Difference Between a Traditional and Modern Siamese Cat?
History
The traditional Siamese is the original type of Siamese cat. It is most commonly thought of when people think of Siamese cats.
The traditional Siamese originated in Thailand, and its history can be traced back to the 14th century. These cats were prized by Thai royalty and were given as gifts to dignitaries.
The modern Siamese is a more recent development. It is a more extreme version of the traditional Siamese. Their distinct appearance is a result of selective breeding in the 1900s. This has resulted in a more standardized and “show-quality” appearance.
The modern Siamese gained popularity in the 20th century. It made its way to the United States in the 1950s.
The traditional Siamese cat is still prized in Thailand, while the modern Siamese cat is the more popular variety in most Western countries.
Appearance
The difference between a traditional and modern Siamese cat is like night and day.
Both types of Siamese cats are gorgeous. But, the range of colors in modern Siamese makes them especially popular among cat lovers.
Temperament
Traditional Siamese cats are very affectionate, loyal, and social creatures. They love spending time with their human companions and are always up for a cuddle or a game. They are also very vocal cats and are not afraid to let you know when they want something!
Modern Siamese still keep these personalities, but are often less dependent on humans. They love spending time with their families, but are not as clingy as the traditional Siamese.
Batman has a unique temperament. He is very loving and affectionate, but he can also be quite independent. He loves to be around people, but doesn’t always want to be the center of attention. Not only that, he is a very loyal and protective friend that can also be quite a mischief-maker.
Lifespan
The lifespan of a traditional Siamese cat is around 15 years. The lifespan of a modern Siamese cat is around 20 years. The difference in lifespan is due to the different breeding practices used for each type of cat.
Traditional Siamese cats are bred for their purebred status. Modern Siamese cats are bred for their health and temperament. Thus, traditional Siamese cats are more prone to health problems and have shorter lifespans.
Diet
Some cat owners allow their Traditional Siamese cats to eat small prey, such as rodents or birds. A modern Siamese cat eats dry food, wet food, or a combination of both. People believe that the diet of a traditional Siamese is more natural and closer to what he would eat in the wild.
Exercise
Despite changes in their appearance over the years, Traditional Siamese cats have always remained devoted to their love for exercise. They are very active and love to play and run around.
Modern Siamese cats are not quite as active as their ancestors, but still enjoy a good play session. Both types of Siamese cats need a good amount of exercise to stay healthy.
Robyn enjoys chasing and pouncing on her toy mice. She will then carry it off to a quiet spot to enjoy her victory. She is a very active cat and loves to play. I often have to put her toys away, so she doesn’t wake me up playing in the middle of the night!
Grooming
Traditional Siamese cats need more upkeep when it comes to grooming. Their long bodies must be combed regularly to prevent mats and tangles. Their nails should also be trimmed frequently.
Modern Siamese cats are less high-maintenance in this regard. Their shorter fur is easier to care for, and their nails don’t grow fast.
Price
Traditional Siamese cats are very rare and can cost $1,000 or more. Modern Siamese cats are much more common and may cost around $400. This big price difference is because traditional Siamese cats are purebreds.
This may also be due to the different medical needs of the two varieties. Traditional Siamese cats are prone to health problems that often require expensive surgeries. Modern Siamese cats are less prone to severe health issues, making them less expensive to own.
Availability
Traditional Siamese cats are not as readily available as their more modern counterparts. This may be due to their rarity or due to the fact that they have not been bred extensively.
This means traditional Siamese cats are not as easy to find as their modern counterparts.
How to Care for Your Siamese Cat?
Siamese cats are popular pets for their elegant appearance and friendly disposition. They still need some primary care despite being low-maintenance.
Here are a few tips on how to care for your Siamese cat:
What to Feed Your Siamese Cat
There are a lot of different factors to consider when choosing food for your Siamese cat:
1. One crucial factor is the protein content. Siamese cats are known for being high-energy. They need food with enough nutrients to maintain their active lifestyle.
2. Another critical factor is the quality of the ingredients. You want to choose food that contains high-quality ingredients. Make sure it doesn’t contain any fillers or artificial additives.
3. Another factor to consider is the price. Some of the higher-quality foods can be more expensive. However, you must remember that you get what you pay for when it comes to cat food. Choose food that has a good reputation for being a quality product.
4. As with any major dietary change, it’s best to consult a professional before making any decisions. This is especially true for our feline friends, who have unique dietary needs.
Talk to a vet if you’re considering switching your Siamese cat to a raw diet. They can tell you whether this is the proper diet for your cat and can help you get started on the right foot.
5. A good diet for your Siamese cat is essential for their health and keeping their weight in check. Feed your cat fixed amounts of food rather than leaving out a bowl of food for them to graze on throughout the day. This will help to prevent overeating and maintain their ideal weight.
How to Provide Basic Care to Your Siamese Cat
1. Many people think that because Siamese cats are so independent, they don’t need to go to the vet as often as other cats. However, it’s essential to take your Siamese cat to the vet at least once a year.
Siamese cats are prone to specific health problems, like respiratory and digestive issues. You can catch these problems early by taking your cat to the vet. You can also get them treated before they become serious.
2. Your Siamese needs to have its teeth brushed regularly to prevent dental problems. Your Siamese may not be thrilled with brushing, but you still have to keep its teeth and gums healthy.
Be sure to use a toothbrush designed for cats, and use only one toothpaste made for cats – human toothpaste can harm your cat. Ask your veterinarian for a demonstration if you’re unsure how to brush your cat’s teeth.
3. Siamese cats have beautiful coats, and regular brushing will keep them looking their best. You must shampoo your Siamese cat to keep their coats clean and healthy.
4. You may want to provide your Siamese cats with perches around the house. It will give them a place to rest and surveil their territory, and help them stay active and healthy. Look for sturdy and stable perches, and place them in locations your cat enjoys spending time in.
5. Make sure you have plenty of time to devote to your cat. Siamese cats are very active and social, so they need plenty of attention.
6. Siamese cats are often considered one of the most intelligent cat breeds. Thus, it’s not surprising that some people choose to train them. Training your Siamese cat may take some time, but can be a rewarding experience for you and your cat.
Modern and traditional Siamese cats can make great companions, and they each bring something unique to the table.
Whether you choose a modern or traditional Siamese cat will come down to your own preferences and requirements for a feline companion.
To learn more about Siamese, read our recent articles at siamesekittykat.com. Thanks for reading!
Be the Siamese Cat expert you always wish to be! From color points to similar cat breeds, discover everything you need to know about their unique charm and characteristics in our comprehensive guide: Siamese Cat Breed: Types, Color Points and Comparison to Other Cat Breeds