Siamese

Thailand · centuries old

Talkative, smart and deeply attached

SizeMedium6–12 lb
Life span12–20 years
CoatShort
Typical price$800–$2,000

Siamese are slim, elegant cats with blue eyes and darker points on the face, ears, paws and tail. They are one of the most vocal and people-oriented breeds.

At a glance

EnergyNon-stop
Cuddlylikes touch and being heldCuddly
TalkativeVery chatty
GroomingMinimal
SheddingLow
With kidsGood
With petsGood
Alone timehow long they’re happy aloneNeeds company

Life with a Siamese

A Siamese talks to you all day, follows you everywhere and hates being left alone. They are clever: they fetch, learn tricks and get into things. Expect a loud voice, especially from a female in heat.

Great for
  • People who are home a lot, or have another pet
  • People who want a cat that talks back
  • Active families
Think twice if
  • You want a quiet cat
  • You live alone and work long hours
  • Your walls are thin
Care tips
  • Short coat: a weekly brush is enough.
  • Daily play and puzzle feeders keep their busy minds happy.
  • Brush their teeth regularly — gum disease is common.

Health

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA, causes blindness), dental disease, asthma and liver amyloidosis are seen in the breed.

Ask the breeder for
  • PRA (rdAc) DNA test for both parents
  • Parents’ vet records (teeth, breathing)
Typical US price$800–$2,000
RegistriesCFA · TICAAsk for both parents’ papers

Prices are rough ranges from registered breeders and vary by line, color and region. A much cheaper “purebred” kitten is a common scam sign.

See Siamese kittens

Similar breeds

BalineseVery active · CuddlyOrientalVery active · CuddlyTonkineseActive · Very cuddly
Compare with similar breeds

Sources: breed standards and profiles from CFA and TICA, DNA tests listed by the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, and veterinary breed profiles.