Himalayan Cats

Himalayan/ Color point Persian

History:

The Himalayan breed was started in 1930 by Dr. Clyde Keller, from The Harvard Medical School, and Virginia Cobb of Newton Cattery. They started out by breeding Siamese cats with Persian cats, trying to develop a long-haired, Persian-bodied cat with the color-points of the Siamese. They bred and crossbred until "Newton's Debutante" was born. This cat was the first cat recognized as beginning the Himalayan Breed.

The breed was accepted by CFA in 1957 as a breed standard, and in the 1980's it was merged with the Persian breed, listing them as a color variation of a Persian instead of a totally different breed. Now in order to breed CFA registered Himalayans, you must have a CFA Registered Persian and/or Himalayan for both the sire and the dam. No Siamese are allowed in the breeding line.

Characteristics that mark the Himalayan are:
    * Beautiful long hair
    * Vivid blue eyes
    * Color point pattern, which includes color on their face, ears, paws, and
       tail.
    * Large, expressive eyes
    * Chubby cheeks
    * Small, rounded ears set wide apart
    * Cobby body

Himalayan Temperament: Attentive and Social

According to Animal Planet's ratings of Himalayan cat characteristics, Himalayans rank high in affection toward their owners, need for attention, and compatibility with children and other pets. Himalayans are outgoing, yet will sometimes slyly sit back and observe a situation before approaching.

The pet Himalayan is intrigued by guests and not shy about planting himself in the center of a party or social gathering. However, the pet Himalayan’s heart belongs to its owner and he is dependent on him for reassurance and security.

There are two health issues associated with Himalayans, both stemming from the extreme flat "pug" face that is so treasured by the show breeders right now. This subjects the cats to major breathing problems along with watery eyes. The shortened breathing tube makes it difficult for some of the cats to get good breath, and the tear ducts become compressed, causing the eyes to leak almost continuously.

These are not usually life-threatening problems. However, if you are thinking of buying or rescuing a Himalayan, the fact that their eyes and noses need to be wiped daily is something you need to be aware of. It becomes a part of the routine, just like combing and brushing their fur. It's just part and parcel of the breed.

Life Span: Can reach 15 years.  








* Some of the contents were rephrased and copied from another website.

Please do not stumble to ask questions or post comments..♥

Suggestions are also accepted.

Note: BAD-MOUTH people aren't welcome in my blog site. :)

[be friendly & be happy]

-beA_