Himalayan

Breed Type: Persian
Common nicknames: Himmy, Himalayan Presian, Colorpoint Persian, Longhaired Colorpoint
Coat: Long-haired
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Friendly, affectionate, gentle, independent
Life expectancy: 10-15 years
Color & patterns:
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Himalayan - lilac point
Himalayan - seal point
The Himalayan cat is a truly regal feline with a sweet, affectionate personality. This beautiful cat is a cross between a Persian and a Siamese, which means you get the best of both worlds: the Persian’s long and luxurious coat and the Siamese’s bright blue eyes and point coloration. The Himalayan was first bred in the 1930s, but wasn’t recognized as a separate breed until the 1950s. They quickly became popular pets, though, due to their beautiful looks and sweet temperaments. And indeed, their personalities are just as lovely as their appearance — Himalayans are known for being gentle, calm, and affectionate. They are also playful and love being around their humans, making them great family pets and wonderful companions for cat lovers all over the world.

Himalayan characteristics

Learn about about Himalayan basics like if they're good with kids and other Himalayans, how much grooming they need, and other facts.

Average height

8-12 inches (20.3-30.5cm)

Average weight

7-12 pounds (3.2-5.4 kg)

Average lifespan

10-15 years

Good with other cats
Needs spaceSocial butterfly
Good with dogs
Scaredy catHey, new pal!
Affection
Independent spiritLoves attention
Shedding
Bare-skinnedHeavy shedder
Health
Prone to issuesGenerally healthy
Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Are Himalayan cats good with other cats?

Yes, Himalayan cats can be good with other cats. Their calm and social nature often allows them to form bonds and friendships with other felines in the household. Like any cat, individual personalities can vary, but early socialization and positive experiences with other cats can help ensure that they develop good manners and positive interactions with their feline companions.

Are Himalayan cats good with dogs?

Yes, Himalayan cats are good with most friendly dogs. Of course, each dog and cat has their own preferences and temperaments, but if introduced early, and both pets have compatible temperaments and are properly socialized, they should get along fine.

Are Himalayan cats good hunters?

No, Himalayan cats are not good hunters. Himalayans are not very prey-driven and are more suited to lounging and spending time with their human companions.

How much do Himalayan cats shed?

Himalayans are moderate to high shedders due to their very dense, long double coat.

Do you need to groom a Himalayan cat?

Yes, Himalayans should be brushed daily to help avoid matting and ease shedding. In addition to brushing, all cats should have their claws trimmed every two weeks or so. Cats are also prone to periodontal disease and should have their teeth brushed two to three times a week.

Can you shave a Himalayan cat?

No, shaving a Himalayan cat is not recommended unless there is a medical or grooming necessity advised by a veterinarian. Their coat provides insulation and protection, and shaving can disrupt their natural cooling and warming mechanisms.

Himalayan history

Learn about where this Himalayan came from!

When do Himalayan cats stop growing?

Himalayan cats usually reach their full size by the time they are one to two years old. Like most cats, their growth slows significantly after their first year, and they may continue to fill out slightly until they are around two years old.

Where do Himalayan cats originate from?

Despite their name, Himalayan cats originate from the United States. They are the result of crossing Persian and Siamese cats, which Harvard researchers first did in the 1930s.

How many types of Himalayan are there?

There is one type of Himalayan cat, but there are variations in the breed, including the color and pattern of their coats and face shapes (including “doll-faced” or “peke-faced,” with a shorter snout and flatter face à la Pekingese).

Are Himalayan and Persian cats the same?

Himalayan cats and Persian cats are closely related, as the Himalayan is a cross between a Persian and a Siamese cat, but they are not the same. Himalayan cats are considered a color-point variation of the Persian breed; they have the same body structure, coat texture, and overall characteristics as Persians but with color points similar to those of Siamese cats.

How long do Himalayan cats live?

Himalayan cats typically live for 10 to 15 years, though some can live longer with proper care and a healthy lifestyle.

Himalayan temperament

Learn about about the Himalayan temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Do Himalayan cats meow a lot?

No, Himalayan cats don’t tend to meow a lot. They typically have a softer, quieter voice compared to some other breeds. However, individual cats can vary in their vocalizations based on personality and their need for attention.

Are Himalayan cats friendly?

Yes, Himalayan cats are friendly and extremely docile, sweet-tempered, affectionate cats who love a good snuggle with their pet parents. Individual cats’ personalities can very, but they are typically sweet-natured, loving companions who enjoy being around their human family members.

Are Himalayan cats good indoor cats?

Yes, Himalayan cats are well-suited to indoor living. It is recommended that all cats remain indoors to avoid outdoor hazards such as predators and traffic. Indoors, they can enjoy a safe and comfortable environment where they can play, relax, and interact with their family members.

Are Himalayan cats good pets?

Yes, Himalayan cats are excellent pets due to their affectionate and gentle nature. They form strong bonds with their human companions and enjoy being part of family activities.

Are Himalayan cats active?

Himalayan cats are moderately active but tend to have periods of playfulness interspersed with longer periods of lounging. They enjoy interactive play sessions with their family members and toys that stimulate their minds and bodies. However, they are not as energetic or high-strung as some other breeds and are content to spend much of their time relaxing indoors.

Can Himalayan cats be left alone?

Yes, like most cats, Himalayan cats are independent animals and can tolerate being left alone for reasonable periods. However, they do enjoy companionship and interaction with their family members and shouldn’t be left alone for excessive periods of time. Providing them with toys, scratching posts, and interactive activities can help keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom when left alone. It’s important to ensure they have access to food, water, and a clean litter box during your absence.

Himalayan health

Learn about about the Himalayan health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Are Himalayan cats hypoallergenic?

No, Himalayan cats are not considered hypoallergenic. While their long fur may produce fewer allergens compared to some short-haired breeds, they still produce dander and can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Do Himalayans have a lot of health problems?

Himalayans have the same health issues as their forebears, Persians, including:

  • Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): PKD is an inherited condition that causes cysts in the kidneys and may lead to renal failure.

  • Breathing issues: This breed is also susceptible to respiratory issues due to the flat-faced head structure.

  • Dental issues: Another issue resulting from brachycephaly, Himalayans are prone to difficulties with teeth misalignments (malocclusions).

  • Cherry eye: Their flat faces also mean the possibility of dealing with cherry eye, a condition that can affect the third eyelid. With cherry eye, the eyelid becomes swollen and inflamed and shifts out of its normal position, resembling a cherry.

Find Himalayan kittens near you

Adopting a Himalayan

Learn about about acquiring a Himalayan - the pros and cons of adopting versus going through a breeder, and associated costs.