Where Do Siamese Cats Come From?

The Siamese cat is an Asian breed cat that originated from Thailand, formerly known as Siam. This cat is one of the oldest known cat breeds of the oriental cat. Pictures of the Seal Point breed were depicted in the Thai manuscript between the 14^th and 18^th century.

There are many myths and stories about the Siamese cat and how they found their way through the world. It is not very clear how the Siamese cat got imported to America and Britain. It is documented that the British Consul General gave a pair of Siamese cats to his sister in 1884. She then exhibited the cats in London in 1885.

This cat breed gained widespread popularity in the United States in 1878. This is after the U.S. President Rutherford B. Haye’s wife, Lucy Haye, received the first documented Siamese cat in the U.S.

These cats continued to grow in popularity. They were imported by the westerners because of their distinctive and unusual appearance. Originally, the imported Siamese cats were medium-sized, muscular and long-bodied.

What are the different Siamese cat breeds?

There are different breeds of Siamese cats. These breeds are distinguished by the flashes (points) on their face, ears, tails and legs. The different Siamese cat breeds include:

What are the known facts about Siamese cats?

1. Siamese cats are an old breed

it is not clear when these cats were first bred. Their origin in Thailand dates back in the 14^th century. For this reason, they are considered one of the oldest cat breeds in the world.

2. Interesting Coat Color

Another interesting fact about the Siamese cats is they have a wide range of coat colors. Unlike other cats, the color of their coats is not only determined by their genetics.

Siamese cats have a unique modifier gene that prevents the development of pigment on the fur. Albinism occurs when the temperatures are between 100 and 102.5 degrees. Their fur will keep pigment and turn black in cold temperatures. You will most likely notice this on their tail, nose, ears and paws because this is where pigment is rich.

3. Once Owned by  a President

The Siamese cat was first domesticated in the United States in the late 1870s. The wife of U.S President Rutherford B. Haye was among the earliest owners of this cat breed. The Siamese cat, whom she named Siam, was a gift from U.S Consul David, who was a diplomat in Bangkok.

4. A Siamese Cat was Once Dubbed the Fattest Cat in the World

Katy, a 5-year-old Siamese kitty from Asbest had attained a weight of 50 pounds in 2003. This kitty ballooned as her appetite increased. This was after she was given hormones to prevent her from mating.

5. Extremely Talkative

If you are looking for a companion to talk to you throughout the day, then you should consider a Siamese cat. These cats are very talkative unlike other cat breeds. Siamese cats know how to express their opinions by making various sounds.

They can be especially loud when they want something or when they are angry. These cats know how to carry a conversation and can let you know how their day has been.

6. They Received Royal Treatment

Siamese cats were treated as royalty by royal families in Thailand, about 100 years ago. They were highly pampered and became a favorite to these families because of their beautiful, unique and unusual appearances.

7. Movie Stars

Because of their unique and beautiful appearance, it is not surprising that these cats have appeared in Hollywood films like That Darn Cat (which is entirely dedicated to a Siamese cat named DC), The Lady and the Tramp, and The Incredible Journey.

What are the personality traits of a Siamese cat?

Siamese cats are characterized as being curious, affectionate and loyal. They enjoy human company and can form strong bonds with their owners. Also, you should not be surprised if they follow you around everywhere you go.

This breed of cat is also known to be extremely talkative. They are not afraid to air their opinion about different things they observe. They make a wide range of cries, including when they want food or when they want to mate. Siamese cats have won the hearts of many because of their intelligence. They are also curious and demanding.

Despite their relatively small size, Siamese cats are also agile and quite muscular. Some Siamese cats can be destructive. They can engage in different activities to entertain themselves. This cat can open cabinets, or any other thing he finds to do. It is advisable to keep him entertained to keep him out of trouble.

Siamese cats are difficult to train because of their intelligence. All the same, you engage your Siamese cat in activities that let him learn new skills. 

Buy your Siamese a scratching post and a lot of toys. You can even train him to walk in a leash.These cats can play fetch and walk on the leash.

What should I know about the health of Siamese cats?

On average, the Siamese cat has a lifespan of about 10 to 12.5 years. Just like other cats, the Siamese cat can develop genetic health conditions. Modern Siamese cats have a wedge-shaped head. This makes them more prone to develop dental and respiratory issues.

Other health conditions that Siamese cats are prone to include heart problems, eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy and glaucoma, bladder stones, and certain types of cancer.

Some Siamese cats develop a kinked tail and crossed eyes. These are common traits that this cat breed developed a long time ago. This was a result of genetic factors. 

There are all kinds of myths about how the Siamese cat got its crooked tail and crossed eyes. These myths are not true. What really happened is the crooked tail and crossed eyes were bred out of the Siamese cat.

Want to immerse yourself more in the captivating world of Siamese cats? I’ve got all the information you need from their distinct color points to their fun personalities: Siamese Cats: Unique Features and Personality