The popularity of the Siamese cat among kitten lovers is indisputable. Although many recognize its peculiar appearance, characterized by having the face, ears, tail and legs darker than the rest of the body – a peculiarity called “points” – as well as its spectacular light eyes and its tendency to meow more intensely than other cat breeds, the truth is that the history of this feline is not as well known.
The origin of the Siamese cat dates back to Thailand, which was formerly called Siam. They were conceived as sacred cats and monks venerated them in temples. They were a pet reserved exclusively for royalty and precisely that is how they arrived in the United Kingdom and began their expansion throughout Europe and the United States. To this we must add that his recurring appearances in films have increased his fame.
In ancient Siam, Siamese cats were an exclusive pet of the country’s nobles and nobility, as well as in communities of monks. They were considered sacred and therefore were venerated in temples and palaces. They were conceived as a mystical treasure, to which they were attributed to being spiritual guardians, protectors from dangers and curses and even powers such as foreseeing the future.
At the end of the 19th century, the King of Siam presented the British Consul General with two Siamese cats called Pho and Mia, this being the first pair of this breed to arrive in England. This is how the fascination with this specimen increased, breeding began outside of what is now Thailand and spread throughout Europe and the United States.
This breeding has evolved with the introduction of other breeds in crossbreeding, giving rise to the Siamese cat as we know it now, since originally it was a cross-eyed cat with a twisted tail. The first breed standard was written in 1892 and in 1946 it was accepted as an official breed by the International Cat Association.
Much of the Siamese cat’s fame is due to its many famous appearances in Hollywood film productions. Among them, animated films such as Lady and the Tramp or The Aristocats. We can also see them in The Wizard of Oz and The 101 Dalmatians, as well as in The Mask and the series Charmed. Even Bob Dylan made a mention of this cat breed in the song Like a Rolling Stone.
Aside from their appearances in film and television, they continue to be a very widespread breed in homes thanks to their affable character. They are loyal, affectionate, playful and enjoy the company of humans.
