Balinese

Overview

The Balinese is a longhaired Siamese with a silky, flowing coat, colourpoint pattern and vivid blue eyes. Highly vocal, intelligent and social, it is essentially a graceful longhair version of the Siamese.

History & Origin

Long-haired kittens occasionally appeared in Siamese litters; breeders in the US refined them in the 1940s–60s, naming the breed after the graceful temple dancers of Bali.

Appearance & Coat

A svelte, tubular cat with a wedge head, large ears and a medium-length single coat that lies close and flows without a dense undercoat. Points in seal, blue, chocolate, lilac and more; blue eyes.

Temperament

Balinese share the Siamese's talkative, people-loving nature but are often a touch softer in voice. They are clever, athletic and devoted companions.

Care & Grooming

The single coat needs only light weekly brushing and sheds less than many longhairs. High social need means they want company and play.

Health & Lifespan

Lifespan is 12–16 years. Similar considerations to Siamese (dental, amyloidosis); choose tested lines.

Recognition

Recognised by TICA, CFA, WCF, FIFe and the GCCF.