Balinese Cat Breed

Body Size - Medium
Coat Length - Long
Life Span - 15 years

Balinese Description

The Balinese and Javanese may be referred to as long-haired Siamese cats. They have the long, slender, Oriental body type and long, wedge-shaped head like the Siamese, but have a long silky coat with no dense undercoat. The hair lies close to the body, and the tail is plumed. The Balinese has color points like the Siamese, with accepted colors for points including lilac, blue, chocolate and seal. The Javanese is virtually identical, but with color points differing from those accepted for the Balinese. In both, the points may darken with age. All varieties have blue eyes.

Balinese History

The Balinese and Javanese arose as spontaneous long-haired mutations of the Siamese cat. Specific breeding to maintain the long coat began in the 1940's. The first breeders known to maintain and promote this beautiful long-haired cat breed were Marion Dorsey of California and Helen Smith of New York, who become active in the breed in the 1960's.

Balinese Traits

These breeds are intelligent and more easily trained than many breeds of cat. They have a softer voice and generally are less vocal than are Siamese cats. They thrive on human affection and are demonstrative and affectionate. Buy from a reputable breeder and, if possible, view the dam and sire before purchasing a kitten to ensure you are purchasing a pet from a well socialized cattery.

Balinese Health

Occasional Balinese and Javanese cats are slightly cross-eyed in appearance and may have resting nystagmus (side-to-side twitching of the eyes at all times).

Balinese Summary

The ideal Balinese / Javanese is a svelte cat with long tapering lines, very lithe but strong and muscular. Excellent physical condition. Neither flabby nor bony. Not fat. Eyes clear. Because of the longer coat the Balinese and Javanese appear to have softer lines and less extreme type than other breeds of cats with similar type.