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.
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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
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Balinese
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: High; needs play, climbing and conversation. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Siamese-line issues: progressive retinal atrophy, Amyloidosis, Asthma, Dental disease), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Sources on this topic
Pages on this specific subject from recognised organisations. They are cited for further reading and do not mean the organisation has reviewed this page.
- Balinese breed profile — Cat Fanciers' Association
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- International Cat Care — cat health, behaviour and welfare advice