The Balinese was named after the graceful dancers on the island of Bali because of their sleek, elegant beauty and grace. Known most commonly as a Siamese with long hair, the Balinese shares many traits with the Siamese, and yet remains its own distinct breed.

The Balinese is a very extroverted, inquisitive and affectionate cat. Loyal and intelligent, they are very vocal and can be demanding of attention. They are not recommended for those who do not have an ample amount of time to play and give them a lot of attention. Despite their sometimes-demanding nature, Balinese are very adaptive and get along very well with children. Insatiably curious, they have a tendency to climb almost any height and investigate any given cubbyhole, object or person. Any common object around the house could serve as a toy for these curious felines. They get along very well with other animals and, in fact, seem most happy with a companion and playmate to help soothe their need for attention. Balinese are most definitely indoor cats, and should not be allowed to wander outside.

A small to medium-sized cat, the Balinese averages approximately seven to nine pounds, fully grown, with a slim, streamline body. The head is average and slightly triangular, like the Siamese, with large, pointed ears and deep blue, almond-shaped eyes. The sleek body rests upon long, slender legs and is covered by a beautiful coat, which is marked the same as a Siamese, only long and soft, with an exquisitely plumed tail. The coat colors range in the same variations as the Siamese: blue, seal, lilac and chocolate. The soft, medium-long coat has no undercoat, as other longhair breeds, and therefore rarely mats and requires much less grooming.

Balinese first arrived some time during the 20th Century, although debate still remains as to whether the breed derived from crossbreeding or a natural, spontaneous mutation in the Siamese breed, causing longhaired offspring.

Some potential genetic problems that may occur in the Balinese are much the same as those in the Siamese: crossed eyes, from a genetic neurological defect; nystagmus (a slight back-and-forth twitching of the eyes), and congenital heart defects.

Other than potential genetic problems, some concern should be taken as to feeding in order to keep weight under control. Also, Balinese are scratchers and it may be wise to invest in scratching posts in order to save furniture with this breed.

There is currently no special breeding information in our databases for this animal. To submit breeding / propagation information that is specific to this animal please click here.