Types of Siamese Cats

The Siamese cat is a popular shorthaired domestic feline that originated in Siam, which is now Thailand. These cats are known to be extremely vocal, and possess a variety of calls and cries. Siamese cats are born without their trademark colors or "points" and develop them as they mature. The darker colors appear on their ears, muzzle, feet, legs and tails. Many people are under the impression that there is only one type of Siamese cat, but there actually are three distinct types, all of which have similar features.

  1. Traditional Siamese Cat

    • Traditional Siamese cats have an apple-shaped head

      The Traditional Siamese also is called an Applehead Siamese because of its apple-shaped head. The name was suggested by The Traditional Cat Association, Inc. and is copyrighted by them. The round body and heavy bones of the Traditional Siamese go well with its round head. It is the largest of the three types of Siamese. Traditional Siamese cats also have shorter faces and usually are overflowing with personality. It is an extremely healthy breed of cat with few problems.

    Classic Siamese Cat

    • Siamese kittens are born without points

      Also called an Old-Style Siamese cat, this type has features similar to the Traditional but is slightly smaller in size. The Classic has a longer tail and legs, and appears more elongated than the Traditional Siamese. It also has a more triangular-shaped face and a small dip in its nose that can be seen when looking at its profile. In some places, the Classic Siamese is referred to as Old-Style Siamese. This cat also has few health problems.

    Modern Siamese Cat

    • Siamese cats are intelligent and inquisitive

      The Modern or Wedgehead Siamese is the only type that has been genetically engineered as a cross between the Traditional and Classic types. The Modern is easily distinguished by its wedge-shaped head and pronounced features. From its large pointed ears and long nose to its slender body, the Modern Siamese has a memorable appearance. Unfortunately, this type of cat is not as healthy as the Traditional and Classic, and has a tendency to live a much shorter life. The average life expectancy of most Modern Siamese cats is two to five years.

    Shared Features

    • All three Siamese types share the same patterns and coloring. Colors for a Siamese cat include the red point, seal point, chocolate point, blue point, gray point and lilac point. All Siamese cats have blue eyes, which sometimes may appear to be crossed. The Siamese cat is known for its loyalty, intelligence and curiosity.