The Siamese Cat
Royalty From Siam

History

The Siamese cat originates in Thailand, previously known as Siam. The breed dates back many centuries with manuscripts containing references and images dating back to 1350. However, there is no doubt that the Siamese existed long before this time.

The Siamese is often referred to as the Royal Cat of Siam, and the reason for this is that the breed was originally reserved for the Royal Family only.

Siamese were believed to be 'keepers' of Buddhist temples resulting in this cat being closely guarded and highly revered and certainly not a cat for the 'commoner'.

Many tales and myths surround this ancient cat, however, one unmistakable truth is that it is one of the oldest, easily recognized and most popular shorthaired Oriental cat breeds.

It also has the distinction of being a natural breed which means that man played no part in its development.

So how did this prized, royal cat find its way to the West?

1871 - Two Siamese were shown in London, but their origin was unknown

1878 - The wife of President Hayes of the USA was sent a Siamese as a gift, but regrettably, the cat did not survive.

1884 - Sir Own Gould, the British Consul to Thailand brought back a pair of Siamese, Pho and Mia to Britain. The cats were given to his sister Ms Velvey who started a breeding program. She continued to import cats from a cattery in Bangkok, which Sir Gould had established during his time in Thailand.

1884 - A French Diplomat, August Pavie, brought two cats back from Thailand to France.

1890 - The first Siamese arrived in the United States and the rest is history! This beautiful and popular cat is now found in almost every country around the globe.

The Siamese has also influenced and inspired the development of many other cat breeds.

Snowshoe, Tonkinese, Balinese (Javanese) and even the Himalayan (or color point Persian) have the Siamese as their genetic source. Havana, Ocicat and Burmese owe their development and maintenance to the Siamese.

For additional cat information on these domestic cat breeds you may want to visit our cat facts pages and our magnificent cat pictures:

Pictures of Cat Breeds - gallery of cat pics

Siamese - coat colors

Do take a look at Life with Siamese Cats, it is a resource dedicated to Siamese cats, you are sure to find all the cat information you need about this cat breed here.

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From top: Siamese Photos Courtesy of:

© Theresa Fouche Photography

LaMaska Delilla Lord of the Ring, Bluepoint Siamese male neuter, Owner: Karen Labuschagne, Breeder: Mariette Burger

Siamese Pictures Courtesy of:

© Sarah Thexton Photography www.sarahthextonphotography.com

Michelles Maslow, Sealpoint Siamese male kitten, Owner: Sue Eddey, Breeder: Michelle Fleischman