A regal cat, the Balinese is a lithe and strong. Very lean with clear eyes and a straight nose, this cat resembles the Siamese cat with a beautiful ermine coat.  It's bones are fine it's lines sleek with narrow shoulders. Legs are long and slim and the coat is of medium length with a fine texture or somewhat silky. Grooming is simple because the Balinese has a coat that does not mat.

The Balinese cat came about due to Siamese breeders in 1930's and l940's trying to produce a long haired Siamese.  Their efforts were only producing shorthaired cats so they stopped breeding.  Eventually, it was noticed that
offspring were carrying a recessive long haired gene.  Two of these cats were mated and finally produced the cat with the longer coat.  The name Balinese was picked.  It reminded the breeder of the beautiful and graceful way the dancers moved on the Island of Bali.  The Balinese Cat received Championship status in the United States in 1963.

The Balinese Cat is very smart and curious.  It has a softer voice than it's cousin the Siamese. The like to be around others and can get into some mischief if left alone.  It may be wise to have two cats if choosing the Balinese.

The Balinese can be found in seal point, blue point, lilac point, chocolate point, red point, tortie point and lynx point.  You will most likely find the red, tortie and lynx points called Javanese by the Cat Fanciers' Association but Balinese by everyone else.

Behavior, Health and Happiness Information