With the coat and body of the Persian and eyes like that of the Siamese, the Himalayan is a gorgeous and beautiful cat. It is named after the pointed pattern that can be seen in many other breeds. The cat is affectionate like the Persian and opinionated like the Siamese.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: United States
Used for: Companion
Average Life Span: 9-15 years
Color: Pointed patterns in various colors
Coat: Long, thick and shiny
Average Height: Medium
Average Weight: 7-12 pounds
History and Domestication
The first Himalayan kitten was developed in 1931 and named “Newton’s Debutante”. It was created by crossing Persians with Siamese to being in the color and coat of these breeds. In the 1950s, North American and British breeders became interested in creating a Siamese-Pointed Persian. They started with the Cobb-Keeler ‘recipe’ in order to get the colorpoint pattern. Then again they bred the cats with Persians to establish breed type.
Standard Physical Characteristics
This is a medium to large-size cat with a sturdy body that is massive across rump and shoulders. The large, round head is set on a thick and short neck. The chin is well-developed. They are heavy-boned cats. The large and set-apart eyes give this at a sweet expression. The short and snub nose has a broad break between the eyes. The small ears are set-apart from each other and are rounded at the top. The short and thick tail is in proportion to the body. This is a solid cat with an overall rounded appearance.
Care, Grooming and Health
The long and flowing coat requires constant grooming. Comb or brush on daily basis to avoid matting of the undercoat. These cats require attention and grooming to look good. Bathe them once a month. Wipe the corners of the eyes with a soft cloth as the breed is prone to excessive tearing. Keep their litter box very clean.
The Himalayan is prone to varying degrees of genetic problems. Other health issues that have been observed include breathing problems, excessive tearing, heat sensitivity, dental malocclusions, polycystic kidney disease and PRA.
Living Conditions
These cats aren’t suited for homes with rough dogs and kids. They would do better under the care of gentle children. They get along well with cat-friendly dogs and other pets. However, always introduce new pets in a controlled environment.
Temperament
They have the combined personality of the Siamese and the Persian. They are sweet, quiet and docile like the Persian. Their rightful place is their owner’s lap and they think it is their right to be petted and paid attention to. They love playing with children but cannot handle rough kids. They can be very affectionate but discriminating. Their affection and love is reserved only for family members and a few guests that they can trust. They are sedate cats and prefer calm and serene home environment. This cat is unlikely to jump or climb the curtains or perch on refrigerator’s top. They love being lap cats and getting their share of love f attention.
