The Siamese cutie is immediately visible - it is characterized by a color in which the limbs, tail and muzzle are darker than the rest of the body. The breed appeared in Thailand, where it was called the moon diamond and was valued almost on a par with jewelry.
The standards were approved in Britain in 1902, since then this beauty has won the hearts of people throughout Europe. Kittens of this species are born white, with pink noses, and only over time their limbs darken. This happens because this is where more melanin is produced due to the difference in temperature between parts of the body. Animals acquire permanent colors when they are one year old.
How did the Siamese cat appear?
The homeland of these cats is Thailand. Several centuries earlier it was called Siam. In this country, cats were considered sacred. The inhabitants of Siam believed that these animals guarded their temples and were guides to the afterlife.
The Thais especially revered cats with beige fur. This country even has a Society for the Protection of Siamese Cats from Extinction. At the end of the 19th century, the Siamese cat was given to Queen Victoria of Great Britain. Later, the Siamese Cat Club was created here.
A few years later, these animals were brought to America, where a similar club was also created. And they were brought to the countries of the Soviet Union only 60 years ago. The first owners of cats of this breed were representatives of the intelligentsia. At that time it was an expensive pet, so only rich people could afford it.
Scottish Fold color codes
The concept of color is represented by the color of the cat's fur, the pattern of stripes or its complete absence, the presence or absence of white spots on the fur . Also degrees of coloration. The basic colors are red and black.
This is interesting! Currently, for the purpose of unification, an absolutely clear coding system has been developed, which is used by FIFе and WСF specialists.
This system is very convenient, and includes not only alphabetic, but also digital designations:
- a - bluе or light blue color;
- b - chocolate, brown and chestnut or chocolate, brown coloring, as well as Havana and champagne;
- c - lilac, lavender or lilac and lavender, as well as platinum color;
- d - red, flame or red color;
- e - cream or cream color;
- f - tortoiseshell and patch or tortoiseshell color;
- g - blue-cream and blue-tortie or bluish-cream, bluish-tortoiseshell color;
- h - chocolate-tortie or chocolate tortoiseshell color;
- j - lilac-toortie or lilac-tortoiseshell color;
- n - black, ebony, seal, sable and ruddy or black, ebony and seal colors, as well as sable and wild colors;
- o - sorrel, cinnamon and honey or sorrel and cinnamon, as well as honey color;
- p - beige fawn or yellow-brown and beige color;
- q - sorrel tortie or red-brown, tortoiseshell color;
- r - beige fawn tortie or beige tortoiseshell color;
- s - silver and smoke or silver and smoky color;
- w - white or white color;
- x - unregistered or color of an unregistered type;
- y - golden or golden color.
Description of the breed
In the photo of a Siamese cat you can see a beautiful and graceful animal. His head is wedge-shaped, his ears are large and set wide apart, and the irises of his eyes are bright blue. The body is flexible, graceful, proportional. The paws are long, smooth, and the muscles are well developed. The tail is long, smooth, tapering towards the end.
When kittens are just born, the characteristic coat color is absent. But within a week, pigmentation of the coat begins. At the age of six months, kittens already show their main color – color point. With age, the spots become darker.
Knowing what a Siamese cat looks like, when purchasing, you can avoid animals with defects - incorrect bite, different eye color, different number of fingers, light spots, crooked tail.
Colors
The body of the Siamese should be white to cream, it must be in harmony with the shade of the markings. Eyes with greens, light stripes and ears that differ from other markings are considered defects.
To read: Varieties of color in the Abyssinian cat: wild color, fawn and other rare colors
It is important to know that these animals can change the color of their skin depending on the temperature around them. At higher levels they become lighter and vice versa. It's not good if the body is too dark, you want the contrast to be clear between the markings and it. Such features depend on heredity, hormones, and also on the conditions of detention - if kittens live in a cool room, they darken. The following point colors are considered the most common among Siamese:
- Strength,
- Blue,
- Red,
- Tabby.
Point is a marking; in creatures of the described breed, this is the name given to the markings on the ears, feet, tail and face. Color point is an acromelanic color, depending on the warmth of the external environment and the body of the animal. It appears only a month after birth and can change, for example, if a cat sleeps on the windowsill, the side in which the wind blows darkens.
The gene for this color is recessive, so if you want kittens with beautiful contrasting legs and tail, it is important that both parents look the same.
If one of them is monochromatic, then the kids will go to it, although some may end up in the second one. With age, cats darken, but this also happens from food - do not give them carrots, seaweed and anything that contains iodine and copper. In addition, the fur is darker on scars and scratches, so if you had to have surgery, keep the area warm until it heals completely. Let's take a closer look at the most common colors.
Seal Point
This is the most common color of pets of this species. Almost everyone associates it with the Siamese. He is known to the mass audience thanks to the cartoon “Lady and the Tramp”, there were two cats of this color.
It is characterized by dark brown markings that look almost black, while the belly and breast are the lightest cream color.
The feet look as if they are wearing gloves, and the pads on them are brown, with a reddish undertone, just like the nose. The eyes of such individuals are clean and dark blue, shiny. The sides and back are light fawn in color, spots are not allowed. Black and gray should also not be present.
Blue Point
It is so called because it may appear blue, although it is actually snowy white. The fur is darker on the chest and belly, the pads of the feet and nose are grey.
The darkening on the paws, ears and face is grayish-blue, the eyes of such pets are bright blue. The snow-whiteness of their skin turns gray-bluish. There is a clear boundary between the marks and the main tone; they clearly contrast. If a cat does not have stripes from the eyes to the ears, this is considered a defect; it is also prohibited for the skin to have blue, fawn or cream basic tones.
To read: All about the breed of small Chihuahua dogs: advantages and disadvantages
There are tortoiseshell creatures: blue-torty-point. They have a white chest, belly and neck, this color gradually turns into cream and light blue. Stripes may be present, the pads and nose are either blue or pink, the eyes are bright blue, and there may be a white star on the forehead. It is important that the markings and base color do not include a dark blue tone.
Red point
These purrs have a light apricot skin; on the chest and belly it is almost white, but on the back and sides it is richer. The limbs and mask are golden-red.
It is acceptable for the spots to have stripes, as well as specks on the ears, face, lips and eyelids, and also on the pads.
The beauties' eyes are blue and bright, and their pillows and nose are pink.
It is believed that the first cat of this color was a certain “salmon” animal that lived in one thousand eight hundred and eighty-eight.
Tobby point
They really stand out from the crowd - instead of standard solid points, they are marked with stripes, and they can be different. Depending on this, the following animals are found:
- Seal tabby point with black stripes,
- Blue tabby point, when the markings are bluish-gray,
- Red tabby point if the stripes are red and gold.
The letter “M” is clearly visible on the forehead of all individuals of this type, there are stripes on the fur around the eyes, and spots near the whiskers. The front paws seem to be covered with rings that start from the toes and go up. There are contrasting stripes on the thighs, and the fur on the back of the hind legs is uniform. The ears are also uniform, but on the outside they are decorated with a light spot. The tail is ringed, the nose is pink, outlined along the main contour.
Ticked
The Siamese point color is sometimes confused with the ticked color, but this is a completely different phenomenon. The fact is that it appears not because of temperature differences, but because of ordinary stripes on the animal’s fur.
Each hair has several shades, two or three, so it seems that the whole skin is in play of color. From different angles you get a different hair tone. The tips of the axial hairs are darker, and the undercoat and belly, chest and inner side of the legs are uniform in color.
There are brindle, marbled, spotted, zone or patchwork patterns. This is beautiful, but it depends on completely different genes and is not acceptable for Siamese.
Remember that when choosing a kitten, you need to pay attention not only to color. If you want to take prizes with him at shows, make sure that his bite is correct, his chin is normally developed, there is no green in his eyes, there is no squint or pigmentation of the nose and pads. A white finger automatically makes a cat unsuitable for showing. And, of course, it’s not just about beauty - when choosing a new family member, it is important to take into account his character and whether sympathy has arisen between you!
To read: Expert advice on how to train a Yorkshire Terrier to use the toilet in a diaper or tray
Character
The character of the Siamese cat breed is stubborn and rebellious. But with proper upbringing, you can tame your pet and reduce negative manifestations of character. It becomes attached to the owner or to a family member, showing its love and loyalty.
The owner must show reciprocal feelings, otherwise his pet will be offended. Cats of this breed do not tolerate being forced to do anything; they are vindictive and remember insults for a long time.
They are not aggressive towards small children and can take an active part in their entertainment. At the same time, she does not like to be cuddled or carried in arms. If she is forced to do anything, she may scratch or bite, showing character and discontent.
Please note ⭐⭐⭐
Oriental cat: characteristics of the breed, health, care and maintenance, rules for raising a kitten, price (150 photos)
Neva Masquerade cat: photo, description of breed and character, size, weight and color, pros and cons of the St. Petersburg cat
American shorthair cat: description of the breed, its character and care, nutrition (100 photos)
Often shows jealousy towards other pets. Reacts with caution to strangers. The life expectancy of these pets is on average 14 years. How long Siamese cats live is largely influenced by the living conditions, diet, and attitude of the owners.
Feeding
The choice of food for a Siamese cat should be approached as responsibly as possible. These exotic oriental beauties are considered too picky when it comes to food and can show fickle tastes. Some of their preferences cause sincere bewilderment among the owners.
For example, a Siamese can happily eat nuts or mushrooms. They also love different fruits. But you shouldn’t indulge your pet; the owner must provide the cat with a balanced, properly selected diet. Whether it is natural food or feeding with ready-made food is up to you.
Natural nutrition
The basis of the natural diet of all cats should be meat. When creating a menu for a Siamese cat, you need to take into account the fact that representatives of this breed have darker fur from excess red meat in their diet. Therefore, 30% of animal proteins should come from fish.
Animal proteins should make up 70% of the menu:
- lean meat (rabbit, beef, turkey, chicken breast, lamb, game);
- sea fish (navaga, cod, tuna, flounder);
- shrimps;
- quail eggs;
- beef liver – 1-2 times a week.
What else should be in the diet:
- skim cheese;
- kefir, yogurt, fermented baked milk;
- vegetables (carrots, broccoli, zucchini, pumpkin, squash, cauliflower);
- fruits (apple, pear, banana) - as a treat;
- olive oil;
- greens (spinach, lettuce);
- Brewer's yeast;
- bran;
- dried seaweed (kelp).
All cats on a natural diet are prescribed vitamin and mineral complexes.
Prohibited products:
- bones (chicken, fish);
- milk;
- sweets;
- flour;
- onion garlic;
- fatty pork;
- sausage;
- legumes;
- smoked meats
- spices.
The daily serving volume is calculated using the formula: 7-7.5% of the cat’s weight. Adult cats need two meals a day.
Important!
Don't forget about access to clean water. It should be open 24/7. Many Siamese love to drink from large dishes and from the tap - pour water into a large container or buy a fountain drinker.
The monthly budget for a natural diet is 1000-1500 rubles.
Industrial feed
When making a choice in favor of one or another ready-made food, you need to assess the condition of your pet, its age and level of mobility. Avoid cheap “economy class” food from the beginning. High-quality brands of the “super-premium” and “holistic” classes are suitable for purebred cats. Do not forget about the breed characteristics - alternate meat and fish compositions.
Recommended brands:
- Orijen Cat Six Fish Grain Free – high-quality dry diet of holistic fish;
- Acana Regionals Grasslands Cat Grain-Free – dry meat and fish formula;
- Bozita Feline Shrimps - Chunks in Sauce - a wet diet based on meat and shrimp;
- 1st Choice Adult Cat Finicky Chicken Formula – for adult picky cats;
- Optima Nova Adult Cat Exquisite Chicken & Rice – with rice and chicken for picky-eating pets;
- AATU For Cats Free Run Chicken - food based on chicken and salmon;
- Royal Canin Siamese Adult – for adult Siamese cats.
The daily feeding rate is calculated based on the age, weight and activity of the pet. On average, Siamese cats need 45-70 grams of dry food per day.
Every month it will cost from 900 to 2300 rubles to feed a cat.
Read more about top cat foods and what to feed Siamese kittens.
Features of behavior
These animals are easy to train and learn quickly. They can learn to perform simple tricks. They have a very loud voice. The animal's developed intelligence allows it to demand what it wants by blackmailing its owner. The cat knows how to manipulate people by sucking up.
With proper upbringing of a purebred pet, he will get along well in the family, get along with children, and will not cause mischief. If children squeeze the animal, it may scratch it. Those who keep a Siamese cat talk about it as a vindictive and vindictive animal.
But if you love and educate him, the cat will reciprocate and will be obedient. It is a good mouser and is also aggressive towards dogs. It is not recommended to leave the animal alone for a long time. Otherwise, his character will deteriorate.
Choosing between a girl and a boy pet
... many give preference to the latter, considering it more beautiful and less troublesome. Perhaps this is more correct, cats are very independent, creating an image for themselves as the owner of the house. The owners are considered servants; their character is curious, active, and at times irritable and aggressive. Cats are much calmer and more affectionate, more loyal and clean. However, there are always exceptions to the rules.
While their owners are away from home, smart cats will happily play with puzzle toys or spend time in a playhouse or a vertical sports complex. A nail sharpener is on the shopping list for pets so they don't scratch their claws on anything. Another pet companion, not necessarily a cat, can also help relieve boredom.
Diet
It is best to feed your pet premium ready-made factory food. You need to pay attention to the composition, it must be balanced, with vitamins and minerals. It is better to use two types of food - dry and wet, but always from the same company.
The diet should also include: lean meats and fermented milk products. You should not give fresh milk to your pet as it can cause intestinal upset. Pork is also prohibited.
Health
Siamese cats often have genetically determined developmental defects:
- strabismus, impaired quality of vision;
- amyloidosis – disruptions in protein metabolism;
- bronchial asthma and calcivirosis;
- heart defects;
- knots, hooks and kinks at the end of the tail;
- narrowing of the esophagus; adenocarcinoma; respiratory cancer.
It is important to pay attention to the health of your pet. It is imperative to vaccinate on time and periodically visit the veterinarian for preventive examinations.
Cats of this breed may develop an allergic reaction caused by cigarette smoke, aerosols, food, or insect bites. It is necessary to regularly carry out antiparasitic treatment of wool and deworming.
Please note ⭐⭐⭐
Burmese cat - photo of the sacred cat, pet care and keeping at home (110 photos)
British shorthair cat - features of cat care, its colors, selection of proper nutrition (110 photos)
Ragdoll - 120 photos, description of appearance and color, her character, how she gets along with other pets
The female becomes sexually mature at the age of 1 year. She carries kittens for 64 days. If you do not plan to breed the animal, it is recommended to sterilize or castrate it after it becomes sexually mature.
When purchasing such a pet, you need to pay attention to the availability of documents - pedigree, veterinary passport, medical certificate of vaccinations. Pay attention to the kitten's habits. He should be playful, active and curious.
Diseases
Typically, this breed of cat is resistant to disease and has a fairly strong immune system. They rarely get sick, but some diseases can develop:
- Genetic liver amyloidosis, a disease that results in liver failure; Cardiomyopathy; Tumor of the mammary gland, the risk of the disease can be reduced if you sterilize a cat under 1 year old that does not have offspring; Gingivitis and dental problems, which are also common in other animals, this problem can be solved by a visit to a specialist; Rare colds as a result of hypothermia or being in a cool room; Fleas and worms. These parasites are easily removed thanks to drops and tablets, but care and dosage must be taken so as not to harm the health of the pet.
We live in an apartment, and when we were away for a long time, we took our pet to grandma’s in the village in a private house. There he got used to running along the street, which he was incredibly happy about and earned himself a cold and a sore throat. We had no idea that cats suffered from such diseases, but the veterinarian prescribed medications and everything ended well.
Lifespan
If you provide your pet with proper living conditions and good care, its life expectancy is on average 16-17 years. Spayed females and neutered males live longer.
To prolong the life of a Siamese cat, you need to properly care for it, provide a balanced diet, and exercise.
