The Siamese is one of the oldest, most recognisable, and most intensely characterful cat breeds in the world. Their sleek, angular wedge-shaped head, large pointed ears, striking almond-shaped blue eyes, and elegant pointed coat make them unmistakable. But the Siamese is defined as much by personality as by appearance: they are extraordinarily vocal, opinionated, social, and demanding cats that form intense bonds with their chosen people. Living with a Siamese is not like living with a typical cat — it is a genuine interactive relationship with a feline that has opinions about everything and will share them loudly.
Quick Facts
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium (3–5 kg; lean and athletic) |
| Coat | Short, fine, point-coloured — minimal grooming needed |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years (some to 19+) |
| Temperament | Extremely vocal, demanding, affectionate, intelligent, loyal — “cat with a dog’s soul” |
| Good for quiet households? | No — Siamese are loud. This is not optional |
| Best companion arrangement | Ideally with another Siamese or Oriental breed — they need company |
| Kitten cost (UK 2026) | £650–£1,200 |
Health — Key Conditions
Amyloidosis
Amyloidosis is a rare but serious genetic condition where abnormal amyloid protein deposits accumulate in vital organs:
- Primarily affects the kidneys and liver — deposits gradually destroy organ tissue
- Mean age of diagnosis in Siamese: approximately 3.5 years (some as early as 1 year)
- Symptoms: excessive thirst/urination, weight loss, poor coat quality, jaundice (yellow gums/eyes), lethargy, dehydration
- Prognosis: once clinical signs appear, organ damage is typically advanced. No cure exists
- No widely available DNA test yet — research is ongoing. Ask breeders about amyloidosis history in their lines
Feline Asthma
Siamese cats have a significantly higher genetic predisposition to feline asthma:
- Chronic inflammation of the airways causing coughing, wheezing, and breathing difficulty
- Typical onset: 2–8 years
- Triggers: dust, pollen, mould, cigarette/e-cigarette smoke, aerosol sprays, scented litter
- Management: inhaled corticosteroids (via feline spacer device), bronchodilators, environmental trigger reduction
- No smoking of any kind in a household with a Siamese cat — this is not optional
Lymphoma and Cancer
Siamese cats have an elevated risk of certain cancers, particularly:
- Mediastinal lymphoma: cancer in the chest cavity, causing fluid accumulation and breathing difficulty
- Young Siamese (under 4 years) are at particular risk of histiocytic mast cell tumours
- Watch for: unexplained weight loss, reduced appetite, breathing changes, lethargy
PRA — Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Siamese carry a recessive form of PRA causing progressive vision loss. DNA test available — ask breeders for test results.
Megaesophagus
Rare but breed-associated: the oesophagus enlarges and weakens, preventing food from reaching the stomach normally. Symptoms: regurgitation (not vomiting), weight loss, aspiration pneumonia risk. Management: elevated feeding position, specific food consistency.
The Vocal Reality
This deserves its own section because it is the single most common reason Siamese cats are rehomed:
- Siamese cats are loud. They vocalise frequently, at volume, and with a distinctive low-pitched yowl that is unlike any other cat breed
- They “talk” to their owners about everything: food, attention, boredom, displeasure, affection, and topics known only to them
- They vocalise more when alone, when they want something, and during the night if they are not settled
- This is a breed trait — it cannot be trained out. If noise is a concern for you or your neighbours, a Siamese is not the right choice
- Many Siamese owners genuinely love the vocal interaction — it is one of the breed’s most endearing traits for the right person
FAQs
Should I get two Siamese cats?
Strongly recommended — yes. Siamese cats form intense social bonds and genuinely suffer from loneliness when left alone for extended periods. A pair of Siamese will play together, groom each other, and provide the companionship each needs. They are also less likely to develop behavioural problems (over-vocalisation, destructive behaviour) when they have a feline companion. Two Siamese together is paradoxically often easier than one alone.
