Himalayan
Get a free QuoteHimalayan
Get a free QuoteHimalayan Cat Insurance
What do you get when you combine the fluffy characteristics of a Persian with the striking markings of a Siamese cat? As a team of cat-breeding scientists proved in the early 20th century, you end up with a beautiful Himalayan cat. And with Himalayan cat pet insurance from PIA, you enjoy the added benefit of the peace of mind that comes with knowing your feline friend will always be well taken care of.
Back in the 1930s, a pair of Harvard scientists decided to cross Persian and Siamese cats. The kittens this cross created possessed the luxurious coat and facial features of a Persian, combined with the unmistakable markings of the Siamese cat. This is how the first litter of Himalayans were born.
It should also be noted that a similar breeding experiment took place in the UK a few years later. This occurred independently – presumably without either team knowing that the other team had achieved similar results.
As such, the Himalayan is a cat fancier’s dream feline. It was intentionally created to achieve very specific results.
And it’s safe to say that this cross was successful, as the Himalayan is truly a beautiful animal to behold. However, it should be noted that most cat fancier associations do not consider the Himalayan as a distinct breed from the Persian. Instead, it’s strictly a colour variation.
HIMALAYAN: FAST FACTS
Average Height
20-25 cm
Average Weight
3 – 4.5 kg
Temperament
Placid, shy, affectionate and easy-going
Lifespan
10-18 years
Known Genetic Issues
Polycystic kidney disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, progressive retinal atrophy
Country of Origin
USA
Coat
Low, flowing double coat that requires considerable grooming
Coat Colours
Colourpoint: chocolate, blue, lilac, flame, seal or cream
Specific Care Requirements
The Himalayan’s high-maintenance coat, general shyness and aversion to jumping and climbing make it especially well-suited to the indoors.
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Himalayan Characteristics
As mentioned above, the Himalayan is all about bringing together the most desirable traits from two breeds into a single cat. When it comes to body and build, the Himalayan is very Persian, indeed. It boasts a round body with short legs, squashed facial features and an illustrious coat of long fur.
The markings, on the other hand, are unmistakably Siamese. This is the colourpoint pattern, which features a lighter coloured coat with darker accents on the mask, feet, ears and tail. With Himalayans, most of the fur is a light cream colour, but the points can come in a variety of shades.
If you’ve ever met a Persian cat, then you can expect much the same from the Himalayan in terms of personality. This is a sweet and loving breed that’s always ready for a bit of cuddling. A fair amount of playtime is also on the agenda for this good-natured cat.
Our Pet Insurance Cover Options
Pet Essentials
Includes emergency boarding fees, overseas pet travel insurance & more.
Comprehensive
Covers up to 80% of eligible vet bills, offers multi-pet discounts & more.
Major Medical
Includes routine care cover, covers up to 80% of eligible vet bills & more.