How Do I Care for My Himalayan Persian?

Himalayan cats are so similar to Persians that they are often called Himalayan-Persians or pointed Persians. In the 1920s, Persians and Siamese were crossed to create this breed, but it took 30 years to finally achieve the desired result--a Persian with the coloration and blue eyes of a Siamese. According to the ASPCA Complete Guide to Cats, the Himalayan shares the same health problems as a Persian.

  1. Litter Problems

    • Himalayan-Persians are notoriously difficult to litter train because urine and feces get caught on their long fur. Himalayans also have a lot of fur on their paws, so soiled litter can get stuck on the paws. Himalayans, like all cats, like to keep clean and may avoid a litter box because they do not want soiled litter stuck to their fur. Because of their pushed-in faces, Himalayans have more difficulty grooming themselves than cats with longer faces. Changing the litter may encourage the cat to use the liter pan again, but grooming the cat every day and making sure the fur is trimmed will keep the cat feeling clean enough to use the litter pan again.

    Grooming

    • The Cat Fanciers' Association recommends that Himalayan-Persians be groomed (combed and brushed) at least once a day. This not only helps the cat keep clean and straightens out any tangles but also helps the cat get used to people. Getting rid of dead hair will help prevent hairballs. Ideally, grooming should start as soon as a kitten is weaned. For extremely matted Himalayans, there is no alternative but to have the cat shaved. The fur will grow back. Shaving or trimming is also recommended for cats living in hot, humid environments.

    Health Problems

    • Make sure you have a vet before you bring a Himalayan home, and plan on going to the vet often throughout the cat's life. The ASPCA Complete Guide to Cats lists several common health problems in most Himalayans, which is why they must be kept indoors. The most common is tearing eyes or blocked tear ducts. These cats need their faces wiped clean every day. Other eye problems include inflammation of the third eyelid and inverted eyelids. Himalayans often have breathing problems because of their pushed-in faces. They also commonly get kidney problems, skin problems and genetic deformities of the mouth, which can lead to periodontal disease. When grooming, check for any strange symptoms like bald patches, excessive drooling or strange growths. When caught early, most Himalayan health problems can be managed.