May is for Himalayans

The second cat I ever owned was the sweet, docile Guenivere, who was a Himalayan-Siamese mix. She was the sweetest cat, and lived to the ripe old age of eighteen! While I knew a lot about Siamese cats, the Himalayan side of Guenivere was new to me at the time. Himalayan’s are an interesting breed, and there is a lot to consider before bringing one home.

Mixed Breed
​A hybrid of Persian and Siamese, this man-made breed was first seen in the 1930s, and was recognized as an official breed by cat associations about twenty years later. But Himalayans are not considered their own breed; they are classified as Persians. The first Himalayan kitten was named Newton’s Debutante, and the breed currently reigns as the Number One Pedigree Cat. 

Long Fur Coats
The Himmies, as Himalayans are sometimes known, have coats that take on the colors and markings of their Siamese side. There are approximately nine coat color variations, but the breed will always have striking Siamese-blue eyes. Their lifespan averages about 15 years, and they are typically a medium build, though their fur makes them look larger. Their coats tend to be extremely long, and require dedicated daily grooming, up to twice a day. Finding a reputable groomer will become important if you don’t keep up with brushing. Mats and knots will form quickly, and create a big tangled mess. Because of their flat faces, they also tend to form tear stains, which a groomer can handle. The Himalayan is not a hypoallergenic cat. 

Sweet Personalities
If you have other animals, and are considering another cat, the Himalayan is an excellent choice. These cats do very well with other pets, dogs or cats, and adapt very quickly. They love to cuddle, and are not the most active cats. Incorporate daily playtime with them for their exercise routine, to keep everyone happy and healthy. Climbing and jumping is not their favorite activity, so your curtains and Christmas trees are safe! A reputable breeder will likely charge $2000-2500 per registered kitten.

Health & Wellness
Since they are a man-made breed, speak to your veterinarian about health issues that could arise. Himalayans have a propensity for several problems concerning their eyes, teeth, breathing, and kidneys. Their low-energy lifestyle also means they can gain weight easily, so weight management is something to keep in mind. Understand this breed’s health concerns before purchasing or adopting, and plan ahead for potential frequent vet visits.

My memories of sweet Guenivere are something I will always cherish, and hope that a Himalayan will bring the same happiness to you and your family. Always research the breed you’re interested in, so you know if the cat will be a good fit for your lifestyle, and if they’ll likely require extra budgeting to maintain good health. This lazy, cuddly breed can bring years of fluff and happiness!