Himalayan Cats 101: Everything You Need to Know

Himalayan cats, often called “Himmies” by their fans, are a mix of two popular breeds: the Persian and the Siamese. This combination gives them the best of both worlds—the luxurious coat of a Persian and the bright blue eyes and color points of a Siamese.

History of the Himalayan Cat

The history of the Himalayan cat dates back to the 1930s. Virginia Cobb and Dr. Clyde Keeler aimed to create a cat with the long fur of a Persian and the striking color points of a Siamese. Their efforts resulted in the first Himalayan kitten, named “Newton’s Debutante.” After many years of careful breeding, the Himalayan cat was officially recognized as a breed in the 1950s.

The name “Himalayan” is derived from the Himalayan rabbit, which exhibits a similar color-point pattern. However, these cats have no association with the Himalayan mountain range; they are purely a product of selective breeding designed to combine the best traits of Persians and Siamese cats.

Initially, there was disagreement among cat associations over whether the Himalayan should be regarded as a distinct breed or merely a variation of the Persian. Today, most organizations classify the Himalayan as a separate breed, although some still consider it a Persian with color points.

Appearance

The Himalayan cat is one of the most recognizable cat breeds, thanks to its unique appearance.

Himalayans boast long, dense, and incredibly soft fur that requires regular grooming. Their fur comes in white/cream colors with black, blue, lilac, chocolate, red, cream, or tortoiseshell colorpoints.

One of the most stunning features of a Himalayan cat is its bright, round blue eyes. These eyes lend an almost mystical aura, especially when paired with their soft fur and color points.

Himmies have a stocky, medium-to-large body structure resembling that of Persian cats. They feature short legs, rounded bodies, and a broad chest, contributing to their regal appearance.

Himalayans can present either a traditional “doll-like” face or a flatter, peke-faced (Pekingese) appearance, depending on their breeding lineage. The flat-faced variety may appear slightly grumpy, but rest assured— their personality is anything but grumpy!

Affectionate:

Kid-friendly:

Pet friendly:

Playful:

Intelligence:

Vocal:

Shedding:

Personality

The Himalayan cat is not just a pretty face; it possesses a wonderful personality that makes it an excellent companion for any family.

Himalayans love being around their humans. They enjoy sitting on laps, being petted, and curling up next to you on the couch. While they are not overtly demanding, they appreciate the time you spend with them.

Though they may meow occasionally, they are not as vocal as their Siamese ancestors, making them a great choice if you’re seeking a peaceful companion.

While Himalayans enjoy lounging, they also have a playful side. They delight in toys, scratching posts, and interactive play with their owners, but they aren’t as hyperactive as some other breeds.

This breed gets along well with both other pets and children, making them an excellent choice for families. Himmies are friendly without being overly needy, and their calm demeanor enables them to adapt easily to different environments.

Care

Owning a Himalayan cat comes with certain responsibilities, especially regarding grooming. Their long fur necessitates regular care to keep them looking and feeling their best. Here are some key tips for caring for a Himalayan:

• Brushing: The Himalayan’s thick coat is prone to matting, making daily brushing crucial to prevent tangles and maintain shiny, healthy fur.
• Trimming nails: To protect your furniture, regularly trim your Himmie’s nails.
• Eye Cleaning: Some Himalayans have flat faces and may experience tear production. Wipe their eyes daily with a soft cloth to prevent staining and keep them comfortable.
• Feeding: Because they are not overly active, keep an eye on their diet to prevent becoming overweight. A balanced, high-quality cat food will keep them healthy while promoting their soft fur and maintaining energy levels.
• Exercise: While they are calm, Himalayans still require some exercise. Interactive toys and short play sessions will keep them engaged and fit.

Health: Common Issues and How to Prevent Them

Like all cat breeds, Himalayan cats have specific health concerns to keep an eye on. Some of the most common health issues include:

• Respiratory Problems: Some Himalayans with flat faces may be prone to breathing issues.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): This hereditary condition affects the kidneys. Reputable breeders do screen for this condition, so inquire about health screenings if you’re adopting a Himalayan.
• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A common heart condition in cats marked by the thickening of the heart’s muscular walls, which reduces its efficiency.
• Eye Problems: Due to their facial structure, Himalayans may suffer from watery eyes, eye infections, and even progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to blindness.

To keep your Himalayan cat healthy, schedule regular vet visits and stay vigilant regarding any health concerns.

Final Thoughts

The Himalayan cat is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a calm, affectionate, and strikingly beautiful companion. Their laid-back nature makes them perfect for quieter households or families desiring a low-key pet. While their grooming needs require some attention, their loving and peaceful personalities make it all worthwhile.