Himalayan Cat: A Mix of Siamese and Persian

Ever seen a cat that looks like a supermodel in a fur coat? Meet the Himalayan cat, the glamor queen (or king) of the feline world. With their long, luxurious coats and those striking blue eyes, they’re practically runway ready.

But beyond the fluff, there's a fascinating history, a unique personality and some serious care requirements to know about.

Breeding the First Himalayan Cat

The Himalayan cat breed is a blend of beauty and brains, created through an experimental breeding program that started in the 1930s.

Breeder Virginia Cobb and geneticist Dr. Clyde Keeler initiated a breeding program crossing Persian and Siamese cats, resulting in the first Himalayan kitten — combining the Persian's long hair with the Siamese's pointed coloring and vivid blue eyes.

Official Classification

These cats were later recognized by major cat associations. The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) classifies the Himalayan as a colorpoint variety of the Persian breed, while the International Cat Association (TICA) and the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) recognize the Himalayan as a distinct breed.

What Makes a Himalayan Cat Unique?

Imagine a fluffy marshmallow dipped in chocolate on the ears, nose, paws and tail. That’s the pointed pattern that Himalayan cats inherited from their Siamese ancestors.

Their round eyes, flat face, and thick neck give them a look that’s both adorable and a little aristocratic. These long haired cats have a light colored body with color points in shades like seal, blue, chocolate, lilac and even blue cream.

Their personality? Generally friendly and affectionate, Himalayans are the epitome of lap cats. They love calm environments, enjoy kitten-like activities with toy mice, will chase balls and thrive on mental stimulation.

They're great companions and usually get along with other pets. Just don’t expect them to climb your curtains; these cats prefer to lounge in style.

Caring for a Himalayan Kitty

Regular grooming is non-negotiable. That gorgeous Himalayan coat comes with a catch: Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting and control loose hair.

Like all breeds, Himalayans have some genetic health conditions to watch for. Progressive retinal atrophy and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy are among the potential issues.

Due to their brachycephalic facial structure, Himalayans can also be prone to health issues such as respiratory problems and excessive eye tearing, so it's important to keep their face clean and consult a vet regularly.

Their diet also plays a role in their overall health. A high-quality diet tailored to their needs, along with a consistent feeding schedule, helps maintain their weight and energy.

Interactive toys can help with physical activity and prevent boredom, especially since Himalayans can be a bit sedentary.

Adopting a Himalayan

A reputable breeder will provide information about the kitten's parents and any health screenings performed. This is why working with a breeder recognized by a major cat association can make a big difference.

The cost of a Himalayan cat varies widely depending on pedigree, location and breeder reputation. Himalayan cats cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

But remember, you're not just buying a pet. You're investing in a family member.

The Himalayan's Place in the Cat World

Today, the Himalayan is one of the most popular breeds in the world. Whether considered a separate breed or a subcategory of the Persian, there's no denying their appeal. Their combination of luxurious coats, blue eyes and a calm, affectionate demeanor makes them standout pets.

Himalayan, Persian, What's the Difference?

Think of the Himalayan as a Persian cat with a Siamese flair. Both breeds share a long, dense coat, a rounded body and that distinctive flat face. They’re also similar in temperament — affectionate, gentle and perfectly content lounging on your lap.

But here’s where they diverge:

Coloring: Himalayans have a pointed coloring thanks to their Siamese genes — darker fur on the ears, face, paws and tail. Persians usually have a more uniform coat color across the body.
Eye color: Himalayans always have blue eyes, a trait inherited from the Siamese. Persian cats can have copper, green or blue eyes, depending on their coat color.
Breed recognition: Some associations group Himalayans under the Persian umbrella (as a colorpoint variation), while others recognize them as a separate breed.
Activity level: Himalayans can be a bit more playful and interactive, retaining some of the spirited behavior from their Siamese ancestors. Persians tend to be more sedate and less interested in games.

So, if you want the regal poise of a Persian with a splash of Siamese personality, a Himalayan might just be your perfect match.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.