Siamese

Breed Type: Siamese and oriental
Common nicknames: Meezer
Coat: Short-haired
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Friendly, vocal, affectionate, sociable
Life expectancy: 10-15 years
Color & patterns:
Hero image
Siamese - bluepoint
Siamese - colorpoint
Siamese - Lilac point
Siamese - Sealpoint
Siamese - Sealpoint
Originating from Siam (modern-day Thailand) as royal feline companions, Siamese cats are a dynamic duo of striking looks and playful personalities. Siamese have sleek, short coats, brilliantly blue almond-shaped eyes, and unique color points on their ears, paws, faces, and tails. Siamese cats are the life of the party, known for their interactive nature and vocal communication skills (they’ve got an opinion, and they’re not shy about sharing it, whether you’ve asked or not). These clever cats are as curious as they come, always eager to explore their surroundings, pounce on a new toy, or supervise your every move around the house. If you’re looking for a companion who is not only gorgeous but also a constant source of entertainment and conversation, then it’s time to welcome a Siamese into your life.

Siamese characteristics

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

Average height

12-15 inches (30.5-38.1cm)

Average weight

6-12 pounds (2.7-5.4 kg)

Average lifespan

10-15 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Where are Siamese cats from?

Siamese cats originated from Siam (modern-day Thailand). These cats were highly regarded and even considered sacred in ancient Siam, with references to them dating back to manuscripts from the 14th century. Siamese cats were cherished as royal companions and were often found in the palaces and temples of Siam.

What are the three types of Siamese cats?

The three main types of Siamese cats are Traditional, Classic, and Modern. Traditional Siamese cats, or Old-Style Siamese, have a more rounded face, robust body, and resemble the original Siamese cats. The Classic Siamese is a variation of traditional Siamese cats that combines characteristics of Modern Siamese, such as a sleeker athletic body. Modern Siamese cats, also called Wedgehead Siamese, were popularized in the 1980s and have a sleek and slender appearance with a distinctly triangular-shaped head and large ears.

How long do Siamese cats live?

Siamese cats live around 12 to 15 years, although some can live into their late teens or even early twenties with proper care. Factors such as genetics, diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle contribute to their overall well-being and longevity.

Are Siamese cats polydactyl?

No, Siamese cats are not known for being polydactyl. Polydactyl cats have extra toes on their paws, a trait more commonly associated with certain other breeds, such as the Maine Coon.

Siamese temperament

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

Are Siamese cats talkative?

Yes, Siamese cats are talkative. They tend to be very vocal and expressive, known for their distinct and loud meows. Siamese cats are highly communicative in conveying their needs and desires or seeking attention.

Are Siamese cats friendly?

Yes, Siamese cats are friendly. They are known for their social and affectionate nature. Siamese cats form strong bonds with their human companions and thrive on interaction. They enjoy being a part of the family and often seek attention and companionship.

Are Siamese cats high-maintenance?

No, Siamese cats are not high-maintenance pets. While they are known for their social and vocal nature, they have relatively simple grooming needs and are usually easy to care for. However, Siamese cats thrive on human interaction and companionship, so spending quality time with them is important for their well-being. Giving them a balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and ensuring they have mental stimulation and enrichment activities are essential for their overall health and happiness.

Do Siamese cats have behavioral issues?

No, Siamese cats are not prone to behavior issues. But, like any cat, they can be demanding and quite vocal when they need attention and stimulation. Under-socialized Siamese cats may be prone to jealousy and territorialism in multi-pet households or when introduced to new animals. Proper socialization, slow introductions to other animals, adequate enrichment, and providing outlets for their energy can help mitigate potential behavioral issues in cats.

Do Siamese cats like to be held?

Yes, Siamese cats like to be held. They enjoy close physical contact, appreciate being cuddled, and have strong bonds with their human companions. Being held provides them with comfort and reassurance, but it’s essential to respect their individual preferences and boundaries, as some Siamese cats may not enjoy being held for extended periods.

Are Siamese cats good with other cats?

Yes, Siamese cats are good with other cats. This social breed craves play, attention, and time with others, so they can get along well with other cats, especially if properly introduced and socialized from a young age. It’s essential to monitor a Siamese cat’s interactions with other cats and provide a gradual introduction process to ensure compatibility.

Are Siamese cats good with dogs?

Yes, Siamese cats tend to be good with dogs. They are social and adaptable animals, often enjoying the company of other pets, including dogs. Siamese cats are known for their confident and outgoing personalities, which can help them establish positive relationships with canine companions. A good relationship between Siamese cats and dogs depends on individual personalities, proper introductions, and ongoing supervision to ensure a positive relationship.

Are Siamese cats good hunters?

Yes, Siamese cats are good hunters. Their natural hunting instincts, agility, and intelligence make them effective hunters of small prey. Siamese cats enjoy engaging in hunting activities, whether indoors with toys or outdoors in pursuit of birds and rodents.

Are Siamese cats good indoor cats?

Yes, Siamese cats are good indoor cats. For safety reasons, it is recommended that all cats be kept indoors due to the risk of traffic accidents, encounters with predators, and exposure to diseases. Indoor living allows for better monitoring of their health, prevents them from contributing to environmental damage, and reduces the likelihood of conflicts with other animals.

Are Siamese cats good lap-cats?

Yes, Siamese cats are good lap-cats. They are a very affectionate breed and love to cuddle with their humans, often seeking out laps for warmth and comfort. However, it’s important to note that individual personalities can vary, and not all Siamese cats may enjoy lap time.

Do Siamese cats like milk?

No, Siamese cats should not drink milk. Most cats are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme lactase needed to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk. Consuming milk can lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea and stomach discomfort. It’s best to provide fresh water as the primary source of hydration for Siamese cats to ensure their digestive health and well-being.

Siamese health

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

What do Siamese cats eat?

Siamese cats should eat a nutritious, high-protein diet. Both wet and dry cat food are good options, but choosing quality products specifically formulated for their dietary needs is essential. Providing fresh water at all times is crucial for their hydration. Consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet plan for your Siamese cat.

How much do Siamese cats shed?

Siamese cats are low to moderate shedders. They have short, fine coats that require minimal grooming compared to long-haired breeds. Regular brushing with a soft-bristle brush can help remove loose fur and reduce shedding while also promoting healthy skin and coat.

What type of coat do Siamese cats have?

Siamese cats have a short, fine coat that lies close to their body. This sleek and glossy coat is smooth to the touch and lacks an undercoat, which contributes to their minimal shedding compared to other breeds. Their coat color is lighter on the body and darker on the extremities, including the ears, face, paws, and tail.

Do you need to groom a Siamese cat?

Yes, you need to groom a Siamese cat. Their coat requires regular grooming to keep it in optimal condition. While Siamese cats are low-maintenance, they still benefit from occasional brushing to remove loose fur and distribute natural oils throughout their coat. Pet parents should also keep up with other grooming tasks such as nail trimming, teeth brushing, and ear cleaning.

Are Siamese cats hypoallergenic?

No, Siamese cats are not hypoallergenic. While they produce fewer allergens compared to some other cat breeds, they still produce allergenic proteins in their saliva, urine, and dander, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. 

However, some people with cat allergies may find that they tolerate Siamese cats better than other breeds due to their shorter coats and lower shedding levels. Potential pet parents with allergies should spend time with Siamese cats before bringing one into their home to assess their sensitivity.

Do Siamese cats have health issues?

Yes, Siamese cats have health issues like any cat. While they are considered a healthy breed, they may be prone to certain genetic conditions, including dental issues such as gingivitis and periodontal disease, which can be exacerbated by their predisposition to dental anomalies. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and preventive care are essential for maintaining the health and well-being of Siamese cats throughout their lives.

What diseases are Siamese cats prone to?

Siamese are prone to several diseases, including: 

  • Hereditary liver amyloidosis: Liver amyloidosis is a condition that causes hard, waxy lesions to accumulate in the liver. The build-up may cause blood in the abdomen and/or lead to eventual liver failure.

  • Dilated cardiomyopathy: Dilated cardiomyopathy is a heart condition that is characterized by the heart muscles’ inability to contract properly, which ultimately leads to a decrease in blood pumping to the heart. The extra stress on the heart from the restricted blood flow often leads to congestive heart failure (CHF). The major symptoms of DCM include depression, loss of appetite, and weakness.

  • Dental issues: Siamese cats are prone to dental issues such as gingivitis and periodontal disease. These conditions can result from a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, leading to inflammation of the gums and potential damage to the tooth roots and surrounding tissues.

  • Respiratory issues: Siamese cats may be more susceptible to respiratory issues due to their brachycephalic (short-faced) structure, which can lead to conditions such as asthma and bronchial disease. These respiratory problems can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and nasal congestion.

  • Eye issues: Siamese cats are prone to certain eye issues, including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and glaucoma. Progressive retinal atrophy is a genetic condition that leads to the degeneration of the retina, resulting in vision loss over time. Glaucoma is a condition characterized by increased pressure within the eye, which can cause damage to the optic nerve and lead to vision impairment or blindness if left untreated.

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Adopting a Siamese

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