The Siamese cat is one of the oldest breeds in existence. Dating back hundreds of years in Thailand, there is mention of cats with black faces and points described in the 14th-century manuscript, the “Tamra Maew” (“The Cat Book Poems”). If that was not enough to give this sleek and beautiful cat an air of royalty, the fact that they are revered as some of the best show cats in the world puts them over the top.

Siamese cats became popular in the United States around 1870 after President Rutherford B. Hayes’ wife received one as a gift from an American diplomat in Bangkok. They gained a reputation for independence, gracefulness, and charm. It was in the mid-1950s that they started to be seen as snobby, mischief-making, and even cold felines due to their depiction in the Disney film The Lady and the Tramp.

In actuality, these cute furballs are sweet, even-tempered, and loving. Below, we will examine the eight variations of Siamese cats and their traits.

The 4 Types of Siamese Cat Variations

Within the Siamese family, there are traditional, old, classic, and modern. Below, we outline each.

1. Traditional Applehead Siamese Cat

The Traditional Applehead is the stockiest type of Siamese cat. They have a very round “apple” like head with a nose pointing downward and smaller ears. They have wider body frames than their classic counterparts. They tend to stand taller than the classic-style Siamese as well, and their tails are shorter.

These adorable cats are very friendly, love people, and enjoy cuddling while sitting on your lap. They are also quite vocal and will let you know if they want or need something. As far as care, this feline has short fur, so grooming is minimal. They also rarely require baths.

However, they may obsessively groom themselves and create bald spots. That is typically due to stress, however.

2. Old Style Siamese Cat

The Old-Style Siamese cat has a medium-sized build and is lankier than the Applehead. This frisky feline has bigger ears and is more athletic as well. You can also identify the Old Style due to their bigger ears, longer face, and nose that points straight ahead.

The Old Style puss is another Siamese that is attached to their owners. They love to follow you and stick their nose in your business. Although they are not as vocal as the Applehead, you will still hear about it if there’s an issue. Moreover, their larger ears make them more prone to ear infections.

3. Classic Siamese Cat

The Classic type of Siamese Cat is the most athletic and tallest of the traditional Siamese. They have long, sleek bodies with a long tail. Their ears are slightly bigger, with a pointed face and a slightly upturned nose. The Classic cat is more energized than the other two, as well.

Just like the other two, however, the Classic Siamese is an affectionate cat. They can be pushy about getting pats and cuddles, even if you are busy doing something else. They are prone to the same ear infections and obsessive grooming as the previously mentioned types.

4. Modern Wedge Siamese Cat

The Modern Wedge became popular in the 1980s. They have very narrow “wedge-like” heads with big pointy ears set lower on the side of their heads. Their body is lean, long, and very athletic. Unlike their traditional cousins, they have slanted eyes and wide noses that point straight out.

This breed of Siamese feline is the current show cat, and they share the same affectionate and sweet disposition as the rest of their family. Unfortunately, cross-breeding has caused some Modern Wedges to develop liver, heart, or kidney disease. Though it does not affect them all, some only live 8 years.

The 4 Siamese Fur Coats

Besides the specific family, the Siamese cat has four different coat styles. All of them have short, silky fur, however. They don’t require much grooming besides finger combing. The beauty of their fur is the point of color. They have a base of white or cream, but their face, paws, and tails are darker in color. In contrast to their bright eyes, it is striking. Also, any version of the Siamese cat can have color point fur.

5. Seal Points

The Seal Points have a cream base with darker fawn points on their face, paws, and tails.

6. Chocolate Points

This type of Siamese cat color is identified by a cream-colored base with chocolate brown colored points. They typically look similar to the Seal Points but with a more marked contrast in color.

• Related Read: Chocolate Point vs Seal Point Siamese Cat Breed: What’s the Difference?

7. Blue Points

This beautiful fur has a blueish-white base with blue-ish gray points on the face and ears, and lightly on the tail and paws.

8. Lilac Points

This is a rare Siamese that has a white base contrasted with gray points that have a pink nose.

Conclusion

All Siamese kittens are born white, and the color point darkens as they grow. These adorable cats are sweet, affectionate, and great for families, regardless of which breed or type you pick.

We hope you have enjoyed this breakdown of the different styles and families of the Siamese cat.

Related Reads:

• Cat Breeds that Look Like Siamese Cats
• Tonkinese vs Siamese Cats: What’s the Difference?
• Do Siamese Mix Cats Make Good Pets? 
• Siamese Cat Health Problems

Featured Image Credit: Esin Deniz, Shutterstock