The lynx point pattern combines the classic Siamese color points with tabby markings. You’ll see stripes on the face, legs, tail, and sometimes the body, depending on coat length and genetics. These cats usually have a white body with subtle tabby overlays and darker stripes at the points.
Advertisement
Origins and Breeding
You can see the Siamese eyes and tabby legs (and face) in this Lynx point cat. Photoframe123 / Shutterstock
Lynx points originated from the breeding of Siamese cats with tabby-patterned domestic shorthairs, creating what some call tabby point Siamese. Breeders further refined the pattern, leading to variations like the blue lynx point, seal lynx point, lilac lynx point, and chocolate lynx.
The Cat Fanciers’ Association does not recognize the lynx point pattern in the Siamese breed. Instead, lynx point cats are classified under the separate Colorpoint Shorthair breed, which adheres to the same Siamese body type standard, including the wedge-shaped head, large ears, almond shaped eyes, and short coat.
Advertisement
Personality and Behavior
Lynx points are curious, intelligent, and playful — traits inherited from their Siamese lineage. They’re known to play fetch, enjoy fishing pole toys, and climb cat trees with agility. Many owners find them more laid-back than classic seal point Siamese cats, though this varies by individual.
These cats are social and do well with other cats and even dogs. They often bond closely with their humans and are vocal in expressing their needs.
Advertisement
Like other Siamese, lynx points are vocal communicators — but they're frequently said to be less pushy and intense in their vocalizations compared to typical Siamese cats.
Do Lynx Point Siamese Cats Need Special Care?
Who could say no to that face? Sheila Fitzgerald / Shutterstock
Lynx point Siamese cats need proper care just like any other Siamese. Like pretty much all cat breeds, they are prone to dental problems and benefit from regular vet visits and a high-quality diet. Their short fur makes grooming easy — just a quick weekly brushing usually suffices.
Because they’re not a separate breed, lynx points can be found through Siamese breeders or even at your local shelter. Their mix of Siamese sleekness and tabby personality makes them wonderful cats for families or solo owners.
Advertisement
We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.
Cite This!
Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this HowStuffWorks.com article: