How to Care For A Siamese Cat
Siamese cats are a distinctive breed with lots of personality. They're one of the earliest breeds of Oriental cats to be recognized officially, and are thought to be descended from sacred temple cats in what is now Thailand. This country was once called Siam, giving the cats their name. In the twentieth century, they have become one of the most popular breeds of cat in North America and choosing the Siamese cat to care for has become more and more popular.
Easily recognizable by their markings (called points), Siamese cats come in two basic kinds. The first and most common is the slender Siamese. Created as the breed standard came to prefer sleeker animals, these cats have lanky bodies and very triangular faces. The other kind, which is less common by growing more popular, is the traditional or apple head Siamese. These cats have been bred in reaction to the extreme elongation of the slender Siamese, and are said to more closely resemble Thai examples of this breed. |
No matter which type you have, Siamese cat care is a lot like taking care of other felines. Feeding, litter box training, and veterinary care are fairly similar. However, there are a few differences in care for a Siamese cat that you should be aware of. Like every breed, Siamese have their own set of special characteristics, which affects how you will interact with and take care of them.
Siamese cats are very intelligent and affectionate. That means that they can easily become bored if left by themselves. They tend to bond strongly with one particular person, and have a very strong need to have human companionship and affection. That makes them a poor choice for people who will be spending a lot of time away from their cats. Their loud voices and willingness to use them can be problematic for people who need a quiet household, as well. Fortunately, care for a Siamese cat in this respect is not that difficult. Just be sure to offer lots to do and be ready to spend a lot of time with your cat. He or she will probably demand a lot of attention, but providing it is fun!
Even adult Siamese are playful and active, so it's important to provide space for your pet to exercise. You will see less activity at night. That's because the form of albinism that gives these cats their distinctive coloration also affects the eyes. Siamese cats lack the eye structure that allows other cats to see so well in the dark. They may also have other eye problems, including a tendency towards crossed eyes, that are linked to this gene. Some Siamese cats have a reduced hearing ability that is tied to their blue eyes. All of these traits mean that Siamese cat is better left indoors, and this particular pet should be allowed outdoors only with supervision.
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