Siameses 101

The Siamese was developed from the native cats of what is now Thailand, and first became popular in Western Europe and the United States in the 19th century. An active, talkative breed, the Siamese have split into two main varieties: The traditional “apple-headed,” also called a “Thai Cat” by breed registries, and a sleeker show type.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Siameses

Playful, loving and opinionated

Size
12 to 16 inches tall
Group Size Regular
Weight
8 to 12 lbs
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Lifespan
12 to 18 years
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My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Siamese

7 years to 10 years

Risk level for common Siamese conditions

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Inflammatory bowel disease

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Asthma

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Pancreatitis

Senior Siamese

11+ years

Risk level for common Siamese conditions

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Kidney failure

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Pancreatitis

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Lymphatic cancer

Siamese kitten

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common Siamese conditions

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Respiratory infection

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Conjunctivitis

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Gastroenteritis

Young adult Siamese

2 years to 6 years

Risk level for common Siamese conditions

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Foreign body ingestion

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Conjunctivitis

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Gastroenteritis

Mature adult Siamese

7 years to 10 years

Risk level for common Siamese conditions

risk-level-bar

Inflammatory bowel disease

risk-level-bar

Asthma

risk-level-bar

Pancreatitis

Senior Siamese

11+ years

Risk level for common Siamese conditions

risk-level-bar

Kidney failure

risk-level-bar

Pancreatitis

risk-level-bar

Lymphatic cancer

Siamese kitten

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common Siamese conditions

risk-level-bar

Respiratory infection

risk-level-bar

Conjunctivitis

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

Young adult Siamese

2 years to 6 years

Risk level for common Siamese conditions

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Foreign body ingestion

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Conjunctivitis

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Gastroenteritis

Nationwide can help you save on your Siamese's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

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Did you know?

The Siamese influence can be found in many breeds that carry the distinctively darker "points" of fur on face, ears, legs and tails.

Good grooming, feline-style

Most cats, especially the short-haired ones, are pretty easy to keep well-groomed. In fact, your cat will do most of the work for you. Since many cats enjoy the feeling of being brushed, consider it a bonding time, as well as a practice that will minimize shedding. The fur you catch on a brush won’t end up on the furniture! (Neglected grooming can also be a sign that your cat isn't well, so talk to your vet if your cat's coat is looking dull, unkempt or matted.)

Consider keeping nail tips trimmed and brushing your cat’s teeth. Both procedures need to be gradually introduced with affection, patience and the yummiest of small treats, but they pay off in the long run for you both. Ask your veterinary healthcare team to demonstrate, or look up how-to videos by veterinary professionals online.

Dealing with instinctive behaviors

Double Trouble

Litter box rules

There are a few basic rules when it comes to litter boxes:

  • No sharing: One box per cat, plus one more
  • Privacy please: Put each box in a quiet, private location
  • No fancy fillers: Most cats prefer an unscented clumping litter
  • Clean frequently: No one likes a dirty bathroom

Since inappropriate elimination (accidents outside the litter box) is often a symptom of a health problem in cats, it’s best to consult your veterinarian first, especially if the problem is new. They can advise on the next steps, including how to address non-medical reasons for the problem.

Furniture Mauler

Scratch & Sniff

Scratching is necessary and satisfying for cats, so point their claws toward appropriate surfaces, using feline hormone spray and rubbing fresh catnip to encourage them. Entice them to shift away from furniture by:

  • Providing vertical and horizontal scratching choices
  • Offering a variety of materials, such as carpet, cardboard and rope
  • Putting tin foil or double-sided tape on surfaces you don't want them scratching
  • Trimming the tips of your cat’s nails regularly

Siamese fun facts

Top girl names for Siameses

100%

of Siameses are female

0%

of Siameses are male

Top boy names for Siameses

Nationwide loves Siameses of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Best. Siamese insurance. Ever.SM

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