I’ve adored Himalayan cats since I was a child. I’ve always been drawn to their beautiful color-point fur and sweet nature. But is the Himalayan the best cat for you? Let’s take a look at what makes Himalayans special to help you determine if this breed is your ideal feline friend.
Appearance and Features of Persian-Siamese Hybrids
Himalayans are stunning animals with a very unique color-point coat pattern. They have a medium to large body with short legs, and a thick, fluffy tail. You’ll immediately notice their round facial structure and short, broad nose that creates a cute, smooshed look.
One of the most defining physical characteristics of Himalayans is their large, round eyes. The vast majority of Himalayans have stunning deep blue eyes. It’s nearly impossible to resist staring into those beautiful eyeballs!
Here are some of the most important physical characteristics of Himalayan cats:
- Body length: 17-19 inches
- Height: 10-12 inches
- Weight: 7-12 pounds
- Lifespan: 9-15 years
Their length, height, and weight can vary slightly based on gender and individual genetics. Typically, females are just a tad smaller than males. Despite their fluffy appearance Himalayans are surprisingly solid and muscular under all that fur.
Tracing the Roots of a Distinctive Feline Variety
The Himalayan cat breed has an interesting origin story. These gorgeous cats didn’t come about by chance. The breed was deliberately created through crossbreeding Persians with Siamese.
Formal breeding efforts began in the 1930s at Harvard University, and the researchers published their results in the Journal of Heredity in 1936. This was a significant moment in the history of cat breeding as we know it. The goal was to produce a cat that looked like a Persian with color points, inspired by the Siamese cat.
Early breeders encountered many obstacles, and it took many years of selective breeding to consistently produce the desired traits.
- Himalayans were first accepted as a breed in their own right by The Cat Fanciers' Association in 1957, although some cat registries still considered them simply a color variation of Persians.
As breeding standards changed over time, some cat registries broadened the acceptable range of body types from the extreme flat-faced variety to a more moderate type. This decision has sparked some controversy in the breeder and cat fancier communities, as many people still argue about the “ideal” Himalayan.
Temperament and Personality Traits of Himalayan Cats
I’ve logged many hours with Himalayan cats, another breed known for its calm and gentle disposition. Himalayans make excellent pets for anyone who wants a low-key cat.
Himalayans are extremely loving with their owners. They’ll often follow you from room to room in search of attention and affection. Additionally, don’t be surprised if your Himalayan insists on cuddling in your lap as you watch TV or read.
Despite being a mellow breed, Himalayans are fairly smart. They enjoy interactive play sessions and activities with their owner, and puzzle toys and treat games can help keep their minds sharp.
Here are the main personality traits of Himalayan cats:
- Docile
- Loving
- Calm
- Intelligent
- Playful
- Social
Himalayans tend to do well with kids and other animals. However, they do prefer a peaceful environment. They’re not as energetic as some other breeds, and for this reason, they make great cats for apartments or homes with seniors.
Grooming Needs of Himalayan Cats
Himalayans are high maintenance cats due to their long, thick coats. If you decide to purchase a Himalayan, be prepared to invest a lot of time into grooming.
First, you’ll need to brush your Himalayan daily to prevent matting and reduce hairballs. I recommend purchasing a metal comb and gently running it through your cat’s coat each day. Be sure to pay extra attention to areas behind the ears and under the legs, as these are common spots for tangles to form.
You should also plan to give your Himalayan a bath every few weeks. Use a high-quality, cat-specific shampoo, and be sure to rinse the shampoo out of the coat completely. Then, use a blow dryer on the lowest setting to dry the coat while brushing it out.
Here’s a high-level overview of the grooming requirements for Himalayan cats:
- Daily brushing (15-20 minutes)
- Monthly bathing
- Weekly eye and ear cleaning
- Regular nail trimming
- Daily teeth brushing (if possible)
Fun fact: The world record for the longest cat hair was held by a Himalayan named Colonel Meow, who set the record in 2012. Colonel Meow’s hair measured an astonishing nine inches in length!
Health Considerations for Himalayan Cats
Himalayans are predisposed to a few health issues. It’s important to consider these potential problems before deciding to adopt one into your home.
Their brachycephalic faces make them susceptible to respiratory issues.
Brachycephalic airway syndrome causes breathing difficulties, especially in hot weather or while exercising.
Keep your Himalayan cool, and don’t over-exert it.
Another concern is eye issues.
Himalayans commonly have problems with their tear ducts, which results in excessive tearing.
As a result, the fur around their eyes can become stained.
It’s important to clean around their eyes regularly to prevent skin irritation.
One study at the University of Missouri-Columbia Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital yielded some concerning results.
Out of 16 Himalayans tested,
- 4 (25%) had hip dysplasia.
This is significantly higher than the 6.6% average for all cat breeds.
However, an interesting review of over 5,000 cases of urate urolithiasis found an under-representation of Himalayans.
The odds ratio was 0.37, indicating they may be less likely than other breeds to suffer from this specific urinary issue.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for Himalayans.
Catching and treating health problems early can significantly improve their quality of life.
Nutrition and Diet for Himalayan Cats
Feeding your Himalayan cat a healthy diet is essential to ensuring they live a long and healthy life. Himalayans have unique dietary needs you should keep in mind.
Himalayans can eat both wet and dry food. However, their flat faces make it more difficult to eat dry food. It’s more likely to get stuck in their teeth or throat, so consider feeding your Himalayan wet food.
Paying attention to portion sizes is essential for Himalayans. They’re at a higher risk of becoming overweight, which can lead to a variety of health problems. Only feed your cat the recommended serving size of food each day based on their age, weight, and the amount of exercise they get.
Here are some general dietary tips for Himalayan cats:
- Feed them high-quality, protein-packed food
- Provide wet and dry food
- Control portion sizes to prevent weight gain
- Keep fresh water available to them at all times
- Choose a diet designed for cats with long hair
Also, keep in mind that Himalayans may require special bowls due to their flat faces. A wide, shallow dish can make it easier for them to eat.
Exercise and Environmental Needs of Himalayan Cats
Himalayan cats are primarily indoor animals. The main reason is their long hair can easily tangle or get dirty if they’re allowed to wander outside. Additionally, their flat faces mean they can’t tolerate extreme temperatures outside.
While Himalayans are pretty mellow, they still require daily exercise. One of the best ways to ensure they get enough activity is through play. Himalayans particularly enjoy feather wands, laser pointers, and puzzle toys that challenge them mentally and physically.
Setting up your home to meet your Himalayan cat’s needs is the final consideration. They like to climb and perch, so you’ll definitely need a few cat trees. Providing scratching posts will prevent them from scratching your furniture and keep their claws healthy.
Here are some ideas for environmental enrichment for Himalayan cats:
- Several cat trees at different heights
- Window perches so they can watch birds
- Scratching posts with different textures
- Cozy hiding spaces (e.g., covered beds)
- Interactive toys to challenge them mentally
Remember Himalayans prefer a calm quiet environment. Ensure they have peaceful spaces to retreat to when they need some alone time.
Exotic Long-Haired Felines in Media and Entertainment
Himalayans have achieved significant fame in popular culture because of their stunning looks and loving personalities.
- One of the most notable Himalayan cats is Mr. Jinx from the movie "Meet the Parents." The lovable Mr. Jinx stole the show with his clever trick of flushing the toilet. As a result of the movie, Himalayan cats gained significant recognition and became a more popular choice among people looking to adopt a pet cat.
- Many Himalayans have also found fame on social media. Some have even become influencers with thousands of followers. These cats have mastered the art of posing for the camera, and their owners take advantage of this by sharing pictures of the cat’s luxurious coat and beautiful blue eyes with adoring followers on the internet.
- The world’s smallest cat was a Himalayan named Tinkertoy, who measured a mere 2.75 inches tall and 7.5 inches long. This tiny Himalayan cat is proof that the best things truly do come in small packages.
Bringing Home a Persian-Siamese Mix
If you’re thinking about adding a Himalayan to your family, there are a few options. You can buy from a reputable breeder or adopt from a rescue.
Show-quality Himalayans can range from $1,000 to $2,500. “Pet quality” cats may be a few hundred dollars. However, don’t forget that your initial purchase price is just the tip of the iceberg. Himalayans will cost you ongoing expenses for food, grooming, and healthcare.
Before you bring your Himalayan home, ask the breeder or rescue:
- About the cat’s health record
- For proof of vaccinations and health exams
- About the cat’s temperament and behavior
- If they provide any health guarantees
Prepare your home by purchasing:
- A litter box and good litter
- Food and water dishes
- A scratching post
- A comfortable bed
- Grooming tools
Remember Himalayans demand plenty of attention and care, so they’re certainly not a low-maintenance pet. However, they can be fantastic, affectionate companions for the right owner.
If you want to learn about other unique breeds, consider getting a Chantilly Tiffany. Or if you’re interested in felines from another part of the world, explore some interesting Chinese cat breeds. They might be perfect for your collection of exotic cat breeds.
To Sum It Up
Himalayans are truly fascinating animals. They’re beautiful and have sweet dispositions, so it’s no wonder they’re common pets. Just keep in mind their grooming requirements and common health problems. Whether you adopt or purchase one, be ready for the responsibility these pretty cats demand. And in return, your Himalayan will give you plenty of love and friendship. It’s a great investment.
Those are the essential details about Himalayans. Yet there’s always more information available. After all, each cat is individual. Your Himalayan will have its own unique personality and characteristics. So enjoy the process of getting to know your new cat!
