Balinese

Overview

Overview of Balinese Cat

In a nutshell, the majestic Balinese cat is pretty much a Siamese with long hair; but they are also so much more than this! Unlike the Siamese cat, the Balinese cat is not named after the region they hail from. Instead, these medium-sized cats are named after the grace and elegance of Balinese dancers. The origins of the breed are unknown, but the first breeding programs began in California and New York during the 1950s when breeders noticed long-haired kittens appearing in their Siamese litters and wanted to develop these special kitties further. They have the same stunning sapphire blue eyes as the Siamese and are also color pointed (meaning that color is only found on the face, ears, legs and tail with a contrasting creamy white body), but their plumed tail and long silky coat are all their own. They come in various pointed colors and patterns, from seal point to the rare lilac tabby & white point. Some say that the Balinese are the most intelligent of the longhaired cat breeds, so they should not be left alone for long periods unattended. These elegant kitties have a single coat that sits close to their long, slender body. Their lack of undercoat reduces the likelihood of matting so brushing them twice a week will keep them looking their best!