Siamese cats are one of the world’s most famous and recognizable cat breeds. Originating in Thailand (formerly known as Siamese), these cats are known for their distinctive looks, vocal personality and affectionate nature. However, there are several different types of Siamese cats, each with unique traits and characteristics. This article will examine the different types of Siamese cats and what makes them special.
Traditional Siamese
Also known as the “applehead” Siamese, the traditional Siamese is the original type of Siamese cat. These cats have round heads, are plump, and are more muscular than other Siamese cats. They also have soft, thick fur with colour patterns that are less defined than other Siamese cats. Traditional Siamese cats are known for their sweet personality and loud, talkative nature.
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Modern Siamese
The current Siamese cat is a more slender and angular version of the traditional Siamese. These cats have a longer, more pointed head shape and a sleek, smooth body. They also have less fur and more pronounced colour patterns than traditional Siamese cats. Modern Siamese cats are known for their playful, curious personalities and love of play.
Thai Siamese
The Thai Siamese, also known as the “old-style” Siamese, is a type of Siamese cat very similar to the traditional Siamese. These cats have a rounder head shape and a more muscular body type than modern Siamese cats. They also have a softer, less defined colour pattern and thicker fur. Thai Siamese cats are known for their sweet, people-oriented personalities and love of cuddles.
Balinese cat
The Balinese cat is a long-haired variant of the Siamese cat. These cats have a body type similar to the modern Siamese but with long, flowing fur that requires regular grooming. Balinese cats have similar colour patterns to other Siamese cats but with longer coats that create a more elegant and refined appearance. Balinese cats are known for their sweet, intelligent personalities and love of play and interaction.
Colour Point Siamese
Color Point Siamese cats are the most common type of Siamese cat. Their body is cream or beige with dark markings on the face, ears, tail and paws. The colour of the points can vary by breed and include shades of blue, chocolate, brown, or red. Colorpoint Siamese cats are known for their distinctive looks and vocal, lovable personalities.
Torte Point Siamese
Torte Point Siamese cats are a rare and unique type of Siamese cat. Their bodies are cream or beige with points that are a mixture of orange and black, creating a tortoise shell-like pattern. Tourette Point Siamese cats are known for their sassy, independent personalities and love of play and exploration.
Tabby Point Siamese
Tabby Point Siamese cats are another rare type of Siamese cat. Their bodies are cream or beige with points with a striped, tabby-like pattern. The stripes can be either dark or light and arranged differently. Tabby Point Siamese cats are known for their playful, curious personality and love of attention.
Siamese Mixes
Siamese cats are often used in breeding programs to create new breeds of cats with unique traits and personalities. Some standard Siamese mixes include the Siamese/Balinese mix (the Javanese cat), the Siamese/Persian mix, and the Siamese/American Shorthair mix. Siamese combinations can have various looks and personalities, making them a popular choice for cat lovers who want a unique and special pet.
Choosing the correct type of Siamese: When selecting a Siamese cat, it is essential to consider factors such as your lifestyle, personality and living situation. For example, traditional Siamese cats may be better for people who want a more relaxed, affectionate pet. In contrast, modern Siamese cats may be better for people who want an active, energetic pet. Torty Point, and Tabby Point Siamese cats may be more suitable for experienced cat owners looking for a more independent and adventurous pet. Ultimately, the best way to choose the right type of Siamese cat for you is to spend time with different Siamese cats and see which one you connect with most.

Meet our writer, Noah, a self-proclaimed “cat whisperer” with a passion for feline behavior. Noah has spent the past 2 years studying the behavior of cats, and has become an expert in understanding their body language and social dynamics.
As a writer for our pet website, Noah shares his knowledge and insights on all things cat-related. From understanding why your cat is meowing to tips on litter box training, he has the expertise to help you create a happy and healthy home for your feline friend.