The
Himalayan cat is a cross between a Persian and a Siamese cat, and is sometimes known as a Himalayan Persian, or in Great Britain,
a colourpoint. The combination of the placid nature of a Persian, with the inquisitive active nature of the Siamese results
in an outgoing but relaxed disposition.
The
Himalayan inherits the luxurious long coat of the Persian, and the pushed in nose, albeit tempered by the Siamese long
nose, as well as the "pointing" from the Siamese. An I-gene present in Siamese cats causes lack of pigmentation in the body,
with coloration in the extremities, or points, namely the ears, feet, tail, and nose.
Himalayan cats, like Siamese, are sexually precocious at a very early age, with kittens sometimes
being born before the mother cat is nine months old. Thus, it's best to have them neutered early.
Like all long-haired cats Himalayans
require regular brushing. They generally prefer a warm climate, an will crave warmth. If trained early they will enjoy a warm
bath in the sink or tub.
The temperament of a Himalayan
may be quite affectionate or slightly reserved. Having had two, I can strongly recommend the breed. The photograph shown above
is my Himalayan cat Jasmine, at about ten years.
