Siamese cats are known worldwide for their gorgeous appearance. Those blue-eyed beauties are hard to ignore, with their silvery coats, adorned with cream, brown, or even lilac-colored points.
Although these kitties are undeniably pretty, there is much more to them than their looks!
Did you know that Siamese cats are one of the oldest breeds of domesticated felines? Or, that they’re actually much more intelligent than your average moggie?
To find out what makes our lovable Siamese cats so special, keep on reading!
What makes Siamese cats different?
Siamese cats have a reputation for being one of the most unique breeds out there. They set themselves miles apart from their feline brothers and sisters, often referred to as more dog-like than cat.
If you’ve ever owned a Siamese kitty, you’ll know that there isn’t any cat quite like yours.
Here are just a few of the things that make Siamese cats so different:
Siamese cats are in fact one of the oldest cat breeds out there. We can’t be 100% sure when they first became domesticated, however, they are believed to have originated around the 14th century in Thailand. This is when they first appeared inside a Thai manuscript.
Siamese cats come in a whole range of unique colors, and their coats aren’t only determined by their genetics. In fact, Siamese cats are born completely white!
Interestingly enough, Siamese cats have a completely different way of developing color in their coats. The usual modifier gene that determines a felines pattern has been altered in Siamese cats, blocking the pigment in their coats from developing. This results in albinism.
However, this gene can only affect the fur within certain temperatures. When a Siamese cat’s body temperature goes under 100 degrees, this allows the modifier gene to ‘switch back on.’ Once this gene is activated, the color will begin to show in their fur.
The reason why Siamese cats have color points on their paws, ears, nose, and tail, is because those points are much cooler than the rest of their body.
Siamese cats are born white due to the womb being incredibly warm, which in turn blocks the gene from developing. It takes a few weeks for kittens to begin showing pigment within their fur.
If you’ve ever owned or been around a Siamese cat, you’ll know just how talkative they are. They’ll do everything in their power to attract your attention, and meowing the house down is just one of those things.
Bored? They’ll meow until they’re entertained.
Hungry? They’ll meow until you feed them.
Lonely? They’ll meow until you give them some love.
Honestly, Siamese cats will just meow for the heck of it. If they’ve seen a bird outside, they want to tell you about it. It is simply just another form of communication for them, and they are a lot less ‘relaxed’ than their fellow felines.
A well-known Siamese trait is how lovable and affectionate they are. They are incredibly loyal creatures and they will adore their owner till the end of time.
Siamese cats tend to create a strong bond with one person only. Once this bond has been made, it is virtually impossible to break. They’ll want to be wherever you are, even if you’re simply watching TV, they want to be on your lap – or curled up next to you as you sleep.
Most domestic breeds are only interested in attention on their terms, hence why cats are known as ‘cold’ creatures. However, Siamese cats will lap up attention whenever you give it to them.
These needy creatures have also been known to develop depression and anxiety when left alone for too long. These breeds demand time and attention, therefore they’re not a good fit for someone who doesn’t spend much time at home.
Siamese cats are one of the most intelligent cat breeds out there. If you’ve ever bought your kitty a cat puzzle to keep them entertained, you may be very surprised when you see how quickly they figure it out.
These felines are also very smart when it comes to your schedule. They spend most of their lives observing you, so they know your schedule better than you do.
For example, simply picking up your coat will indicate to them that you’re about to leave. They’ll be at your ankles, begging you not to go, quicker than you can say “bye.”
This is why many Siamese cats become stressed or anxious when you change the schedule. They quickly realize that something is very different.
As strange as it seems, a Siamese is a dog in cat clothing. Many owners attest to the fact that their Siamese is more dog-like due to their outgoing and demanding personalities.
If you want a laid-back feline, I’m afraid this kitty isn’t for you!
They love their playtime almost as much as constant cuddle time. In fact, you could probably put them on a leash and take them for a walk, and they wouldn’t complain.
They’re also super easy to train due to their intelligence. So, it won’t take you long to teach them a few tricks.
Is the Siamese cat for me?
Welcoming a new pet into your life is a huge commitment, so it’s important that you get it right.
Many people get hypnotized by Siamese blue eyes and good looks, failing to realize just how much commitment they require.
A Siamese kitty will be a great addition to your household if:
If you simply do not have enough time, then it’s better for both you and the Siamese if you don’t adopt.
Siamese cats are certainly a lot of work, but it’s more than worth it knowing they love and adore you more than anything.
So, are Siamese cats different from other breeds?
Siamese cats are certainly in a league of their own – you will struggle to find another breed quite like them!
From their loveable personality, right down to their unique DNA – this breed will keep you on your toes and love you for their entire life.
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
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