Balinese (Cat)

The Balinese Cat originated from a spontaneous genetic mutation which caused longer haired cats to occasionally appear in litters of Siamese cats. Traditionally, these long haired kittens were considered an oddity and not further bred. In the 1950s, an American breeder began specifically breeding long haired Siamese and named the breed "Balinese" because the cats' grace and elegance reminded her of Balinese dancers.http://www.thebalineseandsiamesecatclub.co.uk/

The only thing that differentiates a Balinese from a Siamese in terms of physical appearance is coat length ... Balinese cats have longer hair. The Balinese coat is single-layered, unlike that of most other long haired cats which are double layered. Double layered coats are rougher, prone to matting and tend to produce a "ruff" around the neck. The single layered coat of a Balinese is silkier, lies flat along the body and requires less grooming than other long haired cats.

As is the case with purebred Siamese, Balinese cats are available in both Modern and Traditional body types. The Modern Balinese has a wedge-shaped head, with large flared ears positioned so as to give a strong triangular appearance to the head; body is long, lean and muscular. The Traditional Balinese cats are stockier overall, with rounder faces and less angular body types.

All purebred Balinese have eyes that are a rich, brilliant sapphire blue, and are "oriental" or almond in shape.

Universally agreed upon "colorpoints" (the dark areas on their ears, face, feet and tail) of the breed are dark brown (Chocolate Point and Seal Point cats), silvery-blue (Blue Point), or frosty grey with a pinkish tone (Lilac Point) ... these are the colorpoints officially recognized by the CFA. Other breeders and Balinese Cat enthusiasts also recognize Red Point, Cream Point, Lynx Point and Tortie Point as legitimate colorpoints for Balinese cats, whereas the CFA distinguishes these as correctly belonging to the Javanese breed.

"Like the Siamese, Balinese cats are extremely intelligent, and tend to be demonstrative and affectionate. Loyal and sociable, they like to stick close to their owners most of the time.

"Among the more active breeds, the Balinese is agile, athletic, and acrobatic. Balinese cats love high places and are good climbers and leapers, so carpeted cat trees are appreciated. Due to their insatiable curiosity, Balinese cats also like to explore enclosed spaces. Clever and dexterous, they can usually figure out how to open doors, gaining access to cupboards and closets.

"Balinese cats are sensitive to rough handling, so children should be taught to hold and stroke them gently. If properly treated, Balinese cats are usually accepting of the bustle and noise associated with young children. Most Balinese are unforgiving of mistreatment, however. With their long memories, they are unlikely to warm to anyone who has deliberately abused them, even if that individual tries to make amends later on.

"Most Balinese cats adjust well to other pets and often end up as the dominant animals in any group, though they usually aren’t inclined to abuse their power. Because they are so outgoing, these cats require constant companionship. The Balinese is not a good choice for households where everyone is frequently away from home."

Jennifer Copley - Suite101.com