5 Things to Know About Balinese Cats

1. Key Characteristics of Balinese Cats

• Weight: 6–8 pounds for males; 5–7 pounds for females
• Life Expectancy: 15–20 years

A Balinese is a Siamese with a long coat.

These graceful, aristocratic cats are medium-sized and muscular with a fine bone structure and a long, slim body.

They have a long, silky coat, but no undercoat. The hair can be as long as 2 inches and comes in many colors.

The coat is typically pointed, meaning concentrations of color appear on the face, ears, legs and tail.

The eyes of Balinese cats are sapphire blue, and the cats’ long, plumed tail has long hair.

2. Where Balinese Cats Came From

Early reports of longhaired Siamese kittens are sparse.

But a breeding program was started in the 1950s to isolate the Siamese kittens with the unique coat.

Breeders Marion Dorsey and Helen Smith developed more of the cats, and Smith named them Balinese because of their graceful movements, which reminded her of the Balinese dancers she admired.

The cats were originally accepted in 4 colors: seal, brown, blue and lilac.

The International Cat Association recognized the breed in 1979, and that same year other colors were allowed, including red, cream, tortoiseshell and pointed coats in various shades and patterns.

3. How Friendly Are Balinese Cats?

Balinese cats are affectionate and bond closely with their family members.

These cats need a lot of attention and don’t like being left alone for a long time.

They can also be mischievous, so keeping a close eye on them is never a bad idea.

Balinese cats can be chatty and vocal but are more quiet than the typical Siamese. They are active and athletic, and they enjoy playing with toys.

They get along well with other animals and children, making them ideal for families with existing pets.

4. Is This the Right Cat for You?