The Himalayan cat, while not properly a Siamese cat, is definitely closely related.

The Himalayan cat was originally produced by crossing Siamese cats with Persian cats, and even long haired cats of unknown parentage in the early days. This produced a stunning long haired Siamese cat that looked quite different from the usual cats of the time.

However this breed has a bit of controversy around it with two quite distinct types that we might be interested in buying.

First there is the 'Doll face' style or Traditional type whose face looks like a 'normal' cat combined with the luxurious long fur and the Siamese color points.

Then we have the popular modern style. This option will be found from among Grand Champion winners and often promoted on the front covers of the cat magazines. This look could be described as resembling the popular Pug dog breed facially, with the look of sadness or very cross, depending on your perception. This option also comes with long fur and Siamese points, and in all the usual color options.

The more extreme the look that breed organizations now seem to prefer - the more pug-faced, in other words - the more reported health issues involving breathing and eye problems. Kidney problems have also surfaced and reputable and knowledgeable breeders are working hard to rectify these weaknesses. The controversy? Well, nobody can seem to agree on the extent and cause of these health issues but it is best you are aware of them if you have fallen in love with a fluffy glamour puss and its Siamese coloring and blue eyes.

Do you have the time to groom that long-haired coat at least 15 minutes each day, plus an extra special comb-through and nail clipping an hour a week, as well as special grooming during major shed in spring time and autumn? Then there is bathing as often as every two weeks because an oily coat really spoils the look. And there are the eyes - the Himalayan cat will require eye baths if it suffers from tearing, a common problem among this breed.

You get the message - the Himmie (affectionate term used by these cat lovers) is an extremely high-maintenance cat! You really must have the desire and time to look after this cat, and if you should be unlucky to have a mean cat (who doesn't let himself be combed and bathed easily) then visits to the vet for a 'short back and sides' are the only expensive and hardly esthetic remedy to a tangled coat problem.

Originally, Himalayan cats were bred by Dr Clyde Keeler, who was also instrumental in getting the ocicat breed off the ground, along with Virginia Cobb. Dr Keeler was more interested in the science behind genetic inheritance, so it was left to others who were very keen to make the breed as popular as it is today.

The Himalayan cat is part of the Persian breed in America but in Europe is classified as a colour-point long-hair/colour-point Persian, according to the breed associations. I recommend the TCA, the Traditional Cat Association, breed standard. They put their muscle behind the original Himalayan cat, which they also call doll-face Himalayan. Due to this version having a 'normal' cat head it appears to suffer less with health problems but please ask around to find a responsible and reputable breeder rather than buy a cheap cat from a backyard breeder or pet shop.

My personal opinion? This is not a cat for me. We have no way of guessing the future health of our companion but I still prefer cats that have a healthier track record, and that are better able to take care of themselves. Also I really don't have the time or desire to play hairdresser, but that is just me.

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