Characterization of the Balinese cats

Balinese are, essentially, a longhaired version of the Siamese, and, in type, they should conform to the standards laid down for Siamese. Their temperament and character are slightly modified, however, probably due to the introduction of the longhair gene, so they tend to be slightly quiter and less boisterous. But the main difference is that, because they have long coats, extra grooming - and time - are required.


This long haired variety was first seen in a litter of kittens in America. They seemed so glamorous that it was decided to breed two longhaired Siamese together to see if they bred true, which indeed they did; all the resulting kittens had long coats. The idea of Siamese with a long, silky coat soon gained popularity, and breeders were encouraged to continue the breeding programme. By 1963, the cats were given official recognition in the USA. In the UK, things move more slowly, andi it was not until the early 1980s that Balinese were granted preliminary recognition, with championship status given a few years later.
Balinese are allowed in all the colour and pattern variations that are accepted for the Siamese.