Siamese Cats: Vocal, Opinionated, and Endlessly Entertaining

Siamese cats are not quiet, independent, or aloof. They are loud, demanding, opinionated, and constantly in your face about everything. They have something to say about every aspect of your life - and they will say it loudly.

If you want a cat who acts more like a chatty roommate than a pet, who follows you everywhere while narrating their thoughts, and who demands to be involved in everything you do, Siamese cats deliver.

They are one of the oldest and most recognizable cat breeds with their striking blue eyes, color-point coats, and slender builds. But it is their personalities - vocal, intelligent, affectionate, and demanding - that make them unforgettable.

Quick Facts

• Weight: 8-12 pounds (slender but muscular)
• Lifespan: 15-20 years (long-lived)
• Temperament: Vocal, social, demanding, intelligent, affectionate
• Grooming needs: Low (short coat)
• Energy level: High
• Intelligence: Very high (one of the smartest breeds)
• Vocal level: Extremely high (loudest cat breed)
• Good with kids: Yes (if kids are active)
• Good with other pets: Yes (need companions)
• Nickname: “Meezer”

What Makes Siamese Special

Ancient Thai Heritage

Siamese cats are one of the oldest cat breeds. They:

• Originated in Thailand (formerly Siam) centuries ago
• Were sacred temple cats and companions to royalty
• Were brought to England in the 1800s
• Became one of the most popular breeds worldwide

They carry themselves with regal dignity - and they know it.

They Never Stop Talking

Siamese cats are the most vocal cat breed. They:

• Meow, yowl, chirp, trill, and make low-pitched sounds constantly
• Have loud, distinctive voices (described as “honking” or “yowling”)
• Comment on everything: dinner time, closed doors, your phone call, the weather, nothing
• Demand responses (they expect you to talk back)

Their vocalizations are not cute little meows. They are LOUD.

What Siamese talk about:

• Hunger (even if their bowl is full)
• Closed doors (unacceptable)
• Your absence (where were you?)
• Their toys (play with me now)
• Nothing (just sharing their thoughts)

If you value peace and quiet, do not get a Siamese.

Striking Color-Point Coats and Blue Eyes

All purebred Siamese cats have:

• Blue eyes (vivid, deep blue)
• Color-point pattern (darker color on face, ears, legs, tail)
• Short, fine coats (silky and close to the body)
• Slender, elegant builds

Color variations:

• Seal point (dark brown points with cream body) - most common
• Blue point (gray points with white body)
• Chocolate point (milk chocolate points with ivory body)
• Lilac point (pale gray-pink points with white body)

Siamese kittens are born white and develop their points over the first few months.

Extremely Social and Affectionate

Siamese cats are Velcro cats. They:

• Follow you from room to room
• Sit on your lap constantly
• Sleep in your bed (under the covers)
• Demand to be involved in everything
• Get jealous of other pets or people

They are not independent cats who entertain themselves.

Incredibly Intelligent

Siamese cats are one of the smartest cat breeds. They:

• Learn tricks quickly (sit, high-five, fetch)
• Open doors, cabinets, and drawers
• Solve puzzle toys easily
• Understand routines and schedules
• Remember grudges (yes, really)

This intelligence is a blessing and a curse. Smart cats are creative problem-solvers who get into everything.

Slender, Athletic Builds

Siamese cats are lean and muscular. They have:

• Long, tubular bodies
• Long, thin legs
• Wedge-shaped heads
• Large, pointed ears
• Whip-like tails

They look elegant and move gracefully.

Two Body Types

Modern Siamese breeding has created two distinct types:

Traditional (Applehead) Siamese:

• Rounder head
• Stockier body
• Less extreme features

Modern (Wedgehead) Siamese:

• Elongated wedge-shaped head
• Very slender body
• Extreme angular features

Most show Siamese are modern type. Traditional type is preferred by some breeders and owners who want the old-fashioned look.

Temperament

Siamese cats are:

• Vocal - Constantly communicating with loud, distinctive voices. They comment on everything.
• Affectionate - Crave human interaction and physical contact. True lap cats.
• Demanding - They will let you know (loudly) when they want something. They expect immediate responses.
• Playful - High energy, need 20-30 minutes of active play daily. They are athletes.
• Loyal - Bond deeply with one or two people. They can be jealous and possessive.
• Intelligent - Problem-solvers who learn quickly and remember everything.
• Social - Need constant companionship. They cannot be alone for long periods.
• Opinionated - They have strong preferences and will express them loudly.

Siamese cats are high-maintenance extroverts who demand attention.

Living with a Siamese

Be Prepared for Constant Noise

Siamese cats vocalize all day. They:

• Greet you with loud meows when you come home
• Yowl when hungry (even if their bowl is full)
• Complain about closed doors
• “Talk” to you during conversations
• Make noise just because

Their voices are loud and carry. Neighbors in apartments may hear them.

They Demand Attention

Siamese cats are not content to sit quietly. They:

• Follow you everywhere (including the bathroom)
• Interrupt work by walking on keyboards
• Demand lap time constantly
• Get jealous when you pay attention to others

They are clingy and needy.

They Need Daily Exercise

Siamese cats are athletes. Without exercise, they:

• Become destructive (knocking things over)
• Get annoying (excessive vocalization)
• Gain weight

Provide 20-30 minutes of active play daily with interactive toys.

They Cannot Be Alone

Siamese cats develop separation anxiety when left alone. If you work long hours, consider:

• Getting a second Siamese (they love companions)
• Getting another social cat breed
• Working from home

A lonely Siamese is a loud, destructive Siamese.

They Are Mischievous

Siamese cats use their intelligence for mischief. They:

• Open cabinets and drawers
• Turn on faucets
• Steal food
• Knock things off counters (while staring at you)

Cat-proof your home.

Care Requirements

Grooming

Siamese cats have short, fine coats that require minimal grooming.

Grooming routine:

• Brush once per week with a soft brush or grooming mitt
• Trim nails every 2-3 weeks
• Clean ears monthly
• Brush teeth regularly

They shed minimally and do not mat.

Exercise and Play

Siamese cats need vigorous daily exercise.

Exercise routine:

• 20-30 minutes of active play per day
• Interactive toys (feather wands, laser pointers)
• Teach tricks (they learn quickly)
• Provide climbing structures
• Play fetch (many Siamese love it)

A tired Siamese is a quieter Siamese (but not silent).

Mental Stimulation

Siamese cats need mental challenges.

Mental enrichment:

• Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys
• Training sessions (teach tricks)
• Rotate toys weekly
• Provide window perches for bird-watching
• Hide-and-seek games

A bored Siamese is destructive and annoying.

Diet

Siamese cats are lean and athletic. Feed high-quality, protein-rich food.

Feeding tips:

• Choose meat-based wet or dry food
• Feed measured portions 2-3 times daily
• Avoid free-feeding (they can overeat)
• Provide fresh water at all times

Monitor weight - they should feel lean and muscular.

Companionship

Siamese cats do best with companions. Consider:

• A second Siamese (they bond intensely)
• Another social cat breed
• A cat-friendly dog

They need constant interaction.

Health Considerations

Siamese cats are generally healthy but watch for these conditions:

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

PRA is an inherited eye disease that causes blindness.

Signs:

• Night blindness (bumping into things in dim light)
• Dilated pupils
• Reluctance to move in dark rooms

Prevention: Ask breeders for PRA genetic testing results.

Asthma and Respiratory Issues

Siamese cats are prone to asthma.

Signs:

• Coughing or wheezing
• Rapid breathing
• Open-mouth breathing

Prevention:

• Avoid smoke, strong scents, and dusty litter
• Use unscented, low-dust litter
• Keep home clean and dust-free

Dental Disease

Siamese cats develop dental problems easily.

Prevention:

• Brush teeth daily or several times per week
• Provide dental treats
• Schedule annual dental cleanings

Amyloidosis

A rare liver or kidney disease affecting some Siamese lines.

Signs:

• Jaundice (yellowing of eyes or skin)
• Increased thirst
• Vomiting

Prevention: Ask breeders about amyloidosis in their lines.

Crossed Eyes and Kinked Tails

Some Siamese have crossed eyes or kinked tails due to historical genetics. These are cosmetic issues, not health problems.

Modern breeding has reduced these traits.

Are Siamese Cats Good with Kids?

Yes, if kids are active and gentle. Siamese cats:

• Love interactive play with children
• Tolerate gentle handling
• Enjoy being included in family activities

Teach kids to:

• Play with toys, not hands
• Respect the cat’s space
• Not overstimulate the cat

Siamese do best with older, active children.

Are Siamese Cats Good with Other Pets?

Yes. Siamese cats are social and need companions.

Other cats:

• Get along well with playful, social cats
• Bond intensely with other Siamese
• Prefer energetic companions

Dogs:

• Adapt well to cat-friendly dogs
• Often play with dogs
• Enjoy chase games

Small pets:

• High prey drive (they are hunters)
• Supervise interactions with birds, hamsters, fish

Siamese thrive in multi-pet households.

Common Mistakes

Expecting a Quiet Cat

Siamese cats are the loudest breed. If you want a quiet cat, choose a different breed.

Leaving Them Alone

Siamese cats develop separation anxiety when alone. They need constant companionship.

Not Providing Enough Exercise

Siamese cats need 20-30 minutes of active play daily. Without it, they become destructive.

Underestimating Their Intelligence

Siamese cats are smart problem-solvers. They open doors, cabinets, and get into everything.

Ignoring Dental Care

Siamese cats are prone to dental disease. Brush teeth regularly.

Finding a Siamese

Siamese cats are popular, so finding breeders is relatively easy.

Adoption

Check breed-specific rescues and shelters. Siamese cats occasionally end up in rescues.

Where to look:

• Siamese rescue organizations
• Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet (search “Siamese”)
• Local shelters

Reputable Breeders

Expect to pay $600-$1,500 for a purebred Siamese from a reputable breeder.

What to ask:

• Are parents PRA tested?
• Can I meet the parents?
• How are kittens socialized?
• What health guarantees do you offer?
• Do you breed traditional or modern type?

Red flags:

• Breeders with constant availability
• No genetic testing
• Unwilling to let you visit
• Selling kittens under 12 weeks old

Waitlists Are Less Common

Siamese cats are popular and widely bred. Waitlists are usually shorter than rare breeds (weeks to a few months).

Siamese vs. Balinese vs. Oriental Shorthair

All three are related breeds but differ in coat and appearance.

Siamese:

• Short coat, color-point pattern, extremely vocal

Balinese:

• Long coat, color-point pattern, vocal (essentially long-haired Siamese)

Oriental Shorthair:

• Short coat, solid or patterned (not color-point), vocal

Siamese have the most distinctive color-point pattern.

What To Do Next

• If you want a vocal, affectionate, intelligent cat who demands attention, Siamese cats are perfect
• If you want a quiet, independent cat, choose a different breed
• If you work long hours or value peace and quiet, Siamese cats are not for you
• If you have an active household and time for daily play, Siamese cats thrive

Yes, if your kids can handle a demanding cat.

Siamese are playful and tolerant, but they will meow loudly if annoyed. Teach kids to respect boundaries.

Are Siamese Good for First-Time Cat Owners?

Not really. Siamese are high-maintenance compared to most cats.

If you have never owned a cat, start with a calmer breed.

Finding a Siamese

From a Breeder

Expect to pay $600-$1,500 for a purebred Siamese.

Look for breeders who health test and socialize kittens properly.

From a Rescue

Siamese rescues exist. Many people surrender Siamese cats because they underestimated how vocal and demanding they are.

Check breed-specific rescues and shelters.

Common Mistakes

Expecting a Quiet Cat

Siamese are not quiet. Ever. If you cannot handle constant meowing, do not get one.

Leaving Them Alone Too Long

Siamese cats do not tolerate loneliness well. They become destructive or develop behavioral issues.

Get a companion cat or choose a different breed.

Not Providing Enough Play

A Siamese without daily play is a nightmare. They will knock things over, meow incessantly, and wake you at 3am.

Exercise them. Every. Single. Day.

What To Do Next

• If you want a chatty, interactive cat, Siamese are perfect
• If you value peace and quiet, choose a different breed
• If you work long hours, get two cats or pick a more independent breed
• Check out our guide on high-energy cat play for exercise ideas