Himalayan Cat

The Himalayan has the stocky body type, long hair, and placid temperament of the Persian, but has the pointed pattern of the Siamese.

The breed started in the 1930s when breeders wanted to blend the body type of the Persian cat with the striking colorpoint markings of the Siamese. (Note to pet buyers: The Siamese is not used in responsible Himalayan breeding programs and has not for decades. Anyone trying to sell "Siamese-Himalayan mixes" or "Siamese-Persian mixes" is selling mixed-breed cats, not true Himalayans). It was first accepted by GCCF in 1957 as the Colourpoint Longhair.

Himalayans are docile, gentle cats, though they do enjoy play. "Docile" does not mean "inactive"! Their coats are long, luxuriant, and mat easily. Daily grooming is required to keep their coats free of painful mats.

In some associations, such as CFA, Himalayans are considered part of the Persian breed. In Britain, the Himalayan is known as the Colourpoint Longhair.

Associations: The Himalayan is accepted in all major cat registries. In CFA, ACA, and GCCF, it is considered a color class of the Persian rather than as a separate breed.

Provided with permission of Barbara French
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