April 6th is a special day for some very special felines: it’s Siamese Cat Day! These pretty cats, sometimes called “Meezers,” are exceptionally charming. While all of our feline friends are full of purrsonality, many people find that Siamese cats are a little extra, but only in the best ways. This article features a discussion of Siamese cats by a local Olathe, KS veterinarian.
What Is The Siamese Cat’s History?
Fluffy came from Thailand, which was originally known as Siam. These lovely cats have been around for thousands of years. They were once the most popular pets of royalty. In fact, they are recorded in records from the 14th century! They were also mentioned in the Tamra Maew (Cat Book Poems), which was published sometime between the 14th and 18th centuries.
The kitties were regarded as sacrosanct and were frequently presented to foreign officials as gifts. That status is reflected in their name: wichien-maat, which translates to “moon diamond”.
Fluffy first arrived in the United States in 1878, then in the United Kingdom in 1884. She formed her first fan group in 1902 and was officially admitted to the CFA ranks in 1906.
What Are Some Popular Siamese Cat Legends?
Fluffy has amassed quite a few fables. Legend states that Siamese cats may have been kept by Buddhist monks, who believed they kept evil spirits at bay. The ancient Siamese also believed that when members of the royal family died, their souls were reborn as Siamese kittens. This, of course, meant that the kitties were completely spoiled, with monks attending to them hand and foot, or technically, front paw and back paw. (Fluffy clearly hasn’t forgotten this.)
Another old ‘tale’ about these adorable cats has to do with their eyes. As you may have noticed, many Siamese cats have crossed eyes. This is said to have happened when a Siamese monarch sent Fluffy to guard a cherished vase. The kitty wrapped her tail around the vase and watched it so intently that her eyes crossed and her tail kinked!
What Is an Unexpected Fact About Siamese Cats?
However, we have an especially interesting tidbit. Meezers once busted two spies! Two Siamese cats were residents at the Dutch Embassy in Moscow during the Cold War years of the 1960s. The cats kept meowing and scratching at the walls, alerting their owners that something was off. Officials investigated and found two dozen hidden microphones in the wall. We suspect those two furballs got some catnip after that one.
What Should I Know About Adopting Siamese Cats?
Like all cats, Siamese kitties require nutritious food, a clean litterbox, proper medical care, and, of course, lots of affection. Actually, Fluffy may require a little more attention than some of our other feline friends. While some kitties are reclusive and self-sufficient, Siamese cats are incredibly social. In fact, if they are left alone too often, they may become anxious and lonely! If you’re thinking about adopting one of these adorable cats, and your pet will be home unattended a lot, you might want to get two.
It’s also worth mentioning that Siamese cats tend to be very sensitive. Never yell or scare Fluffy; she will definitely remember it!
Finally, keep in mind that Fluffy is quite the escape artist. Many Siamese cats like going for walks on leashes, so if you enjoy being outside, you might want to consider this. Ask your Olathe, KS veterinarian for training tips.
Another intriguing aspect about these guys? They’re capable of learning tricks! Many dogs like playing ‘fetch’ with their owners. Fluffy may even like going on a walk on a leash.
What Is the Siamese Cat’s Usual Life Expectancy?
Fluffy has a slightly longer life expectancy than most kitties. Most of our feline friends live for 12 to 19 years. Siamese cats can live for as long as 20 years. One even made it into the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s oldest cat. Scooter, that furball, lived to be 30. That’s amazing for a kitty!
How Do You Keep a Siamese Kitty Happy?
Meezers are noted for their playfulness and devotion. They frequently follow their humans from room to room and will talk about anything and everything, from the moth at the window to the dust bunny beneath the couch.
Stimulation and amusement are essential for these pretty cats. Supply plenty of toys and make time to play with your feline companion on a regular basis. Fluffy will also like a cat tower, as many Siamese cats enjoy high places.
Are Siamese Cats Noisy?
Fluffy’s tendency to vocalize about anything and everything is one of her most distinguishing characteristics. Siamese cats have distinct meows that sound similar to human baby cries, and they are known for being quite talkative.
Are There Different Types Of Siamese Cats?
While all Siamese cats have whiter bodies and darker points, Fluffy’s coloration varies. The CFA provides four possibilities. The original Seal Point; Chocolate; Blue and Lilac. The International Cat Association also recognizes flame and cream points, as well as tabby and tortie points.
The kittens’ eyes are all blue, regardless of what outfit they choose.
Are Siamese Cats Still Popular?
Fluffy’s popularity may have peaked after World War II, when they were the number one cat breed in terms of registrations. However, these endearing cats did not always do so well in the West. After Fluffy made her debut at the first cat show, a journalist dubbed her an “unnatural nightmare.” Disney didn’t help the breed either by portraying them as the feline baddies in the animated classic Lady And The Tramp!
Contact Our Olathe, KS Pet Clinic
Do you have any questions regarding how to care for a Siamese cat? Has it been a while since your Meezer saw her Olathe, KS veterinarian? Please contact us for all of your kitty’s veterinarian care requirements.
