The Himalayan Cat Breed

The Himalayan stands to be one of the most popular cat breeds, with many familiar with how it looks and not by its name.

The 1993 released Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey and its 1996 released sequel Homeward Bound: Lost In San Francisco, featured a Himalayan as the two movies’ core characters, with Sassy the Himalayan cat, voiced by actress Sally Field.

Together with two dogs, Sassy and the three embark on a journey going home to where there masters are, after being separated from them.

Essentially a medium-length haired cat bearing the distinct color patterns of a Siamese, the breed is often born from crossing a Persian with a Siamese, resulting to what is also known as the Colourpoint Persian.

Though bearing certain Persian characteristics and physical traits, the Himalayan is not classified as a Persian, but is considered to be part of the Exotic Shorthair classification of Persian Breed Group standards.

As a breed, Himalayans are known to be very intelligent and mild mannered, at times more affectionate and sweet than most cats are known to be. Their penchant for human companionship have made them popular among pet cat circles, with their distinct looks making them mainstay attendees to different cat shows in different parts of the world.

As domestic cats, the rudiments of taking care of Himalayans are essentially no different from other breeds, save perhaps the necessity of regularly brushing them. The breed is also known to be affected with Polycystic kidney disease, a condition that is borne from their genetic ties with Persians, and veterinary experts suggest that having them nutered or spayed early helps prevent the onset of the condition.

With their affectionate attributes matched with their distinct Siamese cum Persian looks, Himalayans are truly lovable cats to have, the ideal cat of choice for those in search for sweet cats who warm up to their masters.

 Himalayan Cat Breed Video