April 6th is Siamese Cat Day, in honor of some very special cats! These beautiful felines, sometimes known as Meezers, are very cute and charming. While all of our feline companions are loving and full of purrsonality, many people find that Siamese cats are, well, a little extra. This article features a local Hiawassee, GA veterinarian discussing Siamese cats.
What Do I Need to Know Before Adopting A Siamese Cat?
For the most part, Siamese cats require the same things as any other kitty: good food, a clean litterbox, adequate veterinary care, and, of course, lots of affection. Fluffy may require a bit more attention than other cats, though. While some of our feline companions are aloof and independent, Siamese cats are incredibly friendly. They’ve even gotten the nickname ‘Velcro kitties.’ In fact, they can become worried and lonely if left by themselves too often! If you’re thinking about adopting one of these adorable kitties and your pet will be spending a lot of time alone at home, you might consider getting two.
It’s also worth noting that Siamese cats can be rather sensitive. Never yell or scare Fluffy; she will certainly remember it.
Fluffy is also quite the escape artist. Many Siamese cats prefer going for walks on leashes, so if you enjoy being outside, consider this. Make sure to ask your veterinarian for training tips.
How Do You Keep Your Siamese Cat Happy?
Let’s begin with basic cat care. Fluffy will require a balanced diet, a clean litterbox, and regular veterinary treatment to stay healthy.
Of course, it will take a little more than that to properly satisfy your feline overlord. Meezers are known to be lively and affectionate. They frequently accompany their people from room to room, chatting about anything and everything, from the moth at the window to the dust bunny behind the couch. They’re very smart and interactive, and need a lot of entertainment and stimulation. You will need to supply plenty of toys and make time to play with your furry companion on a regular basis. Fluffy will also like a cat tower, if you please, as many Siamese cats prefer high areas.
Are Siamese Cats Very Loud?
Fluffy’s tendency to talk about everything is one of her most distinguishing characteristics. Siamese cats have characteristic meows that sound similar to the cries of human newborns. However, keep in mind that each cat has unique purrsonalities. While many are outspoken, there are some who remain silent.
Are There Different Types of Siamese Cats?
While all Siamese cats have pale bodies with darker points, Fluffy can wear a variety of colors. The CFA offers four options: the original seal point, chocolate, blue, and lilac. The International Cat Association also recognizes flame and cream, tabby points, and tortie points. However, all Siamese cats have blue eyes. Fluffy can have long fur, but longhaired Siamese cats are quite rare. Balinese cats resemble longhaired Siamese cats, and are often confused for their cousins.
Of course, regardless of the style of coat these kitties are wearing, they are all lovely!
Are Siamese cats very popular?
These kitties are quite popular, and it’s not hard to see why. Their popularity may have peaked after World War II, when they were the most popular cat breed, at least according to registrations.
However, these attractive cats did not always do well in the West. When Fluffy made her debut at the first cat show, a journalist described her as an “unnatural nightmare.” Disney did the breed no favors by portraying them as the feline villains in the animated classic movie, Lady And The Tramp! Fluffy did a bit better in That Darn Cat, another Disney film.
Why Are Siamese Cats So Fun?
Fluffy is known for being affectionate, vocal, and loving. Another intriguing thing about these guys? They can learn tricks! Many like playing ‘fetch’ with humans.
How Long Do Most Siamese Cats Live?
Fluffy has a slightly longer average lifespan than most cats. Most of our feline companions will live between 12 and 19 years. Siamese cats can live for up to twenty years. One Siamese kitty made it into the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s oldest kitten. That furball, Scooter, made it to the age of 30. That is incredible for a cat! While not many cats make it that far, it’s no longer uncommon for kitties to live into their late teens. Be sure to keep up with your feline pal’s veterinary care needs.
What Is the History of Siamese Cats?
Fluffy originates from Thailand, which was once known as Siam. These adorable kittens have been around for thousands of years. They used to be the preferred pets of royalty. In fact, they are referenced in archives dating back to the fourteenth century. They were also talked about in the Tamra Maew, also known as “The Cat Book Poems,” which came out sometime between the 1400s and 1800s.
The cats were considered sacrosanct and were frequently presented to foreign embassies and officials. Their high standing is clear from their name. In Thai, they are known as wichien-maat, which means “moon diamond.”
Fluffy moved to the United States in 1878 and subsequently to the United Kingdom in 1884. She established her first fan group in 1902 and was officially admitted to the CFA in 1906.
What Are Some Legends about Siamese Cats?
Fluffy has collected quite a few legends. According to mythology, Buddhist monks kept Siamese cats to ward off bad spirits. The ancient Siamese people also believed that when members of the royal family died, their souls were reborn as Siamese cats. This, of course, meant that the cats were completely pampered and spoiled, with monks looking after them hand and foot. (Clearly, they have not forgotten this.)
Another old ‘tale’ about these adorable kitties involves their eyes. As you may know, many Siamese cats are cross-eyed. According to rumors, this occurred when a Siamese king assigned Fluffy the responsibility of guarding his treasured cup. The kitty dutifully wrapped her tail around the vase, staring at it. She was so intent on her job that her eyes crossed and her tail kinked!
What’s a Fun Fact About Siamese Cats?
Here’s a really interesting tidbit: Fluffy once busted two spies. In the 1960s, at the height of the Cold War, two of the cats lived at the Dutch Embassy in Moscow. The cats continued to meow and scratch at a specific location on the walls, signaling their people to something unusual. Officials took another look and discovered two dozen concealed microphones in the wall.
Conclusion: Siamese cats are best known for their striking fur and gorgeous coat patterns. They are usually very pale brown, cream, or white, with dark tips and blue eyes. They also tend to be very smart and affectionate. They typically create exceptionally close connections with their people. These cute kitties are also very vocal. They have a distinct, loud meow, and are extremely outgoing.
Do you have any questions about caring for a Siamese cat? Has it been a while since your Meezer visited the animal clinic? Please contact us for all of your cat’s veterinary care needs. As your Hiawassee, GA pet hospital, we are here for you!
