How Many Types of Siamese Cats Are There?
The Siamese cat is one of the most sophisticated felines you’ll ever find. With tanzanite eyes and a flashy coat, the cat looks like it’s dressed for a serious black tie party – invitees only. Siamese cats have been around for centuries, even appearing in ancient manuscripts from Thailand. However, it was only until the late 19th century that the cats became popular in the West. They were regarded as fashionable pets, and they soon found themselves in the United States. Even the president at that time, Rutherford B. Hayes, together with the first lady – Lucy Hayes – had a Siamese cat shipped to them by a U.S diplomat stationed in Thailand called David B. Sickels. Take a look at the different types of Siamese cats available today.
1. Breed Standard
There’s actually a particular Siamese breed standard recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association. It comes in four colors: seal point, blue point, chocolate point, and lilac point. Points refer to the flashes of color on the face, ears, legs, and tail, and should have a sharp definition. The standard Siamese features big blue eyes, a pleasantly triangular head, and a short coat. They are also muscular and have an athletic profile.
2. Seal Point
The seal point Siamese can be recognized by his fawn body coat, which tends to darken with age. His points are deep brown, like the color of a seal (hence the name), while the nose and toes have a matching description. His overall coloring is believed to have come first among all types of Siamese cats. The fur on his tummy is sometimes lighter than that on his back.
2. Chocolate Point
A chocolate point Siamese cat is characterized by dark brown points and cream colored coat. It is similar to the seal point Siamese, albeit with a lighter and warmer tone in its points. He also exhibits a lighter body color than that of the seal, while his nose and pads tend to be pinkish.
3. Blue Point
A blue-point Siamese is very distinct. As the name suggests, this cat features a bluish fur on his face, ears, and the tips of his tail. There’s also a bluish cast over his white fur, and in some cases, under his belly as well. Its body coloring was officially recognized in 1934.
4. Lilac Point
The Lilac point Siamese cat received official recognition in 1955, making it the last in line for that privilege. He has the lightest points with a purplish, grayish, or pale pinkish tone. Even his body coat is lighter than the other types of Siamese cats. His nose and feet exhibit the same coloring too.
Variations
Apart from the four main types of Siamese cats, there are several other variations that have been created by breeders. These can range from orange to tortoiseshell to lynx to virtually anything in between. Interestingly, all Siamese kittens have a white or cream colored coat, with no points. The points only develop after a certain age. The cats can also be differentiated by their shape. The traditional Siamese, often described as applehead, is heavier and has a relatively rounder head and eyes. The old style Siamese has an angular head that slightly resembles the modern Siamese.
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