Fun Facts About Siamese Cats

Do you have a Siamese cat? If so, make a note to show Fluffy some extra TLC on April 6th: it’s Siamese Cat Appreciation Day! These lovable balls of fur are very unique and affectionate, and definitely deserve to be celebrated. A local Brampton, ON vet lists some things you may not know about Siamese cats in this article. 

Meesters

While your kitty may have several nicknames of her own, she shares at least one with other Siamese cats: Meester. We’re not sure where this one started, but it’s pretty adorable! 

Coloring

Siamese cats are known for their pretty and distinctive coloring. Those pretty coats happen because of an interesting twist in Fluffy’s genetics. All Siamese cats have a special gene that causes albinism. However, this particular gene is heat sensitive, and is only activated at temperatures above 102.5. Because the temperature inside a mama kitty’s womb is quite warm, the cooler parts of a kitten’s body don’t get hot enough to switch that gene on. 

History

Siamese cats, as the name suggests, originated in Siam, which is now Thailand. Fluffy has been charming people since at least the 14th century, which is when she was first mentioned in writing. 

Crossed Eyes

Crossed eyes used to be a common feature in Siamese cats. Nowadays, it’s become more rare, as breeders have worked to eliminate the trait. However, there is a cute story here. As legend has it, a Siamese king put his feline friends in charge of guarding a specific vase or goblet. The kitties took their duties very seriously. So seriously, that they stared hard enough at the vase to cross their eyes. 

Global Conquest

Fluffy first set her cute little paws on US soil back in 1878, when she was given as a gift to US President Rutherford B. Hayes. It didn’t take long at all for these cute kitties to charm the rest of the country! The Siamese was welcomed into the ranks of the CFA in 1906. 

Movie Stars

Our feline friends are no strangers to the silver screen. Siamese cats have appeared in several shows and movies. They are most well-known for their appearance in Disney’s 1955 animated classic Lady And The Tramp. Fluffy also starred in The Incredible Journey in 1963. 

Do you have questions about your kitty’s health or care? Contact us, your Brampton, ON animal clinic!