The Siamese Cat: Undeniable Aristocrat

by Marjorie Dorfman | More from this Blogger

21 Apr 2006 04:28 AM

I wonder how many of you out there remember the old Disney classic with the two Siamese cats singing, "We are Siamese, if you please, and we are Siamese if you don't please. We come from the residence of Siam and there is not a finer cat than I am." This jingle clearly reflects the attitude of these beautiful cats that are so well known for their vibrant and distinctive markings. The Siamese is one of the first recognized breeds of Oriental cat, although its exact origins are unknown. It is believed that they are descended from the sacred temple cats of Siam (now Thailand), and their Thai name is "Wichien Maat."

All Siamese have a creamy base coat with colored "points" on their muzzles, ears, paws and lower legs. All Siamese kittens are cream-colored at birth, developing visible points within the first few months of life. Siamese coats tend to darken with age, and those cats living in warmer climates will tend to have lighter coats than those of their counterparts living in the colder regions of the world.

They are highly intelligent and very verbal. I had a girlfriend who had such a cat and over the phone I would hear her "Mirabelle" meowing in the background and swear it sounded more like a human baby crying and not a cat. Their voice is unique and unlike other breeds, and it is said that they cam meow loud enough to compete with fire and rescue equipment! Their temperaments are active, playful and persistent in their need for attention from their loving owners. They have a great need for human bonding and companionship and some describe their behavior as almost "dog-like" in regards to their loyalty and trainability. They can be taught to walk on a leash, go fetch and perform tricks.

If you are lucky enough to have one of these cats living in your home, love it well. It will do more than return the favor!

Learn more about Marjorie Dorfman

Marjorie Dorfman is a freelance writer and former teacher originally from Brooklyn, New York.

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