When choosing a cat breed, many people have difficulty selecting one over the other. Some may tend to choose a breed that has a particular look but then again, there are so many choices, it can sometimes be difficult to decide. If you would like a cat that has the coat of a Persian but looks like a Siamese, then the Himalaya is going to be perfect for you. This cat tends to be rather affectionate, but they can also have a mind of their own like no other.
As you might expect, the Himalayan is a cross between a Siamese and Persian cat. What is interesting about this breed is the fact that the two breeds that were used to develop it are actually natural breeds, meaning that they developed on their own without any interaction on the part of humans. The breeding of the Himalayan started back in the early 1930s and in the 1950s, it began to pick up steam. They eventually were recognized in 1957 but were reclassified in 1984 as a person color variety. As a medium-sized cat, they are a great houseguest.
A lot of the personality of the Persian came through in the Himalayan. They tend to be a relatively quiet cat around the home that has a sweet and gentle demeanor. More than likely, you’ll find them sitting in your lap and they tend to be a joy to those who recognize exactly what kind of treat they have at their disposal. They are good with children and with other animals, but there are times when they may decide otherwise. In most cases, the affection that they show will be directed toward members of the family and not toward outsiders.
A number of health issues may occur in a Himalayan and it is important for you to choose a quality breeder to rule out many of these problems. They may experience problems with their eyes, including excessive tearing and cherry eye. Breathing difficulties, sensitivity to heat, ringworm and kidney disease are other problems that may be experienced by this breed.
Although Himalayans can be quite sweet and many people enjoy having them around the home, it is important for them to be groomed on a regular basis. Their long hair can get quickly tangled if it weren’t for a daily grooming and at times, they may even need a bath. Because of their coats there may also be a problem with litter getting lodged within the paws or around their hindquarters so it is important to keep the litter box clean at all times. If you have a problem with excessive tearing, gently wipe the corners of the eye to prevent stains from forming.
If you’re looking for a gentle house cat that loves their family, you really need not look any further than the Himalayan. They are an excellent choice that will be loved within the household.