Cat breed · Semi-longhair
Balinese
Essentially a long-haired Siamese — the same pointed elegance and conversation, in a silky plumed coat that mats far less than it looks.
Medium12–20 yearsUnited StatesCan suit apartments
Representative breed photography. Appearance varies within every breed.
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Semi-longhair
- Origin
- United States
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 2.5–5 kg
- Height
- 25–30 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–20 years
- Coat
- Silky medium-length single coat with Siamese point colouring and a plumed tail
- Temperament
- ChattyDevotedAthleticClever
History
Appeared as long-haired kittens in Siamese litters in the mid-20th century; named for Balinese dancers' grace, not the island.
Appearance
Svelte, fine-boned pointed cat with a silky coat, plumed tail and sapphire-blue eyes.
Exercise and activity
High; needs play, climbing and conversation.
Care and grooming
The single coat resists matting; weekly combing suffices.
Health considerations
- Siamese-line issues: progressive retinal atrophy
- Amyloidosis
- Asthma
- Dental disease