MAIN Home Life Pets Cats & Kittens Siamese

One of the oldest and traditional of cat breeds, the Siamese remains the center of tales & legends dating back to ancient Siam (now Thailand) where it was favored companionship for temple priests and royalty.

First introduced to the West in the late 19th century, the Siamese later made it all the way to the White House - when First Lady Lucy Hayes, wife of President Rutherford B. Hayes, became the first Siamese cat owner in America.

Today, with to its bright blue almond-shaped eyes, distinctive color points, elegant bearing and "talkative" personality, the popularity of the Siamese cats continues unabated worldwide.

Behavior & Personality

Having socialized with humans for centuries, the Siamese cat is well-versed in stealing the hearts of their owners.

Their legendary low-pitched call is a form of communication called "meezer" - sounding all the world like a crying baby - which often guarantees the absolute devotion often felt by their adoptive family.

Although the Siamese may seem aloof and stand-offish to strangers, Siamese cat owners know well how playful and affectionate they can be evidenced by a marked aversion to being left alone for any length of time.

Care & Health

The Siamese requires no special care other than an occasional brushing along with plenty of opportunity for companionship, play, and exercise.

Inherited defects include crossed eyes, kinked tail, and more serious but less common conditions like nystagmus (jerking or rotational eye movements) and congenital heart disease.

More information about Siamese cats around the Web:

Traditional Siamese Breed FAQ - Detailed information on the breed's history, characteristics & behavior, recognized breeds, care & training, plus related references and links to breeders.

Cat Fanciers' Siamese Breed Profile - Expert facts & information on the breed's origins, Siamese behavior and personality plus related photos, resources & suggested reading.

Siamese Rescue - Directory of U.S. West coast rescue services with tips on adoption, general cat care.

History and Legends of the Siamese Cat - Wonderfully illustrated account of the breed throughout the centuries including its early origins, tales & folklore, Siamese cats in the modern era and in pop culture, with related photos.

Siamese (cat) - Great overview from Wikipedia with details on its history and breeding, temperament, care and feeding, famous owners, and lots of eye-catching photos, related resources.

also see -> Oriental Cats