By admin
Nov 21st 2010 @ 3:27PM Filed under: Cat Breed Issues

The Siamese is one of the oldest developed cat breeds. Today it is one of the most popular and easily recognizable breeds. There may be two basic types — the classic or traditional Siamese and the more “modern” and extreme Siamese that is usually seen at cat shows. Siamese are considered very intelligent and very vocal.

Unfortunately, the Siamese suffers from a number of breed-related health problems. Immune system problems are possible, upper respiratory infections are possible, stomach blockages are possible. The breed has a noticeable squint and crossed eyes occur. Hip dysplasia and diabetes can be problems, as can Psychogenic Alopecia. Kinked tails appear in the breed. Feline Hyperesthesia can occur. Pectus Excavatum can also occur. Mammary tumors also occur in the breed. Other problems are known to occur in small numbers. The Siamese cat has, according to Medical, Genetic & Behavioral Aspects of Purebred Cats, the highest number of genetic diseases of all the purebred cats. The modern Siamese cats may be more prone to these health problems than the more traditional Siamese cats.