Cat Breed · United States
Balinese
A longhaired Siamese — colour points with a silky plumed tail.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Balinese is a longhaired variety of the Siamese, sharing the same pointed colouring, sapphire-blue eyes and chatty, devoted personality. It is a vocal, athletic and highly intelligent cat that bonds closely with its people and dislikes being left alone for long.
Balinese: At a Glance
| Origin | United States |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium (2.5–5 kg) |
| Weight | 2.5-5 kg (5.5-11 lb), with males typically larger than females |
| Lifespan | 13–17 years |
| Coat | Single-coated, medium-to-long, fine and silky with no downy undercoat, lying close to the body and lengthening into a plumed tail. Because there is no undercoat, it sheds modestly and mats rarely. A weekly comb-through keeps it sleek; bathing is seldom needed. |
| Temperament | Vocal, affectionate, intelligent |
| Good with | Excellent for families, including households with children and other cats or sociable dogs, thanks to its outgoing nature. It suits both first-time and experienced owners but needs company, so it is poorly matched to people who are out all day. It adapts well to flats provided it gets plenty of interactive play, climbing space and attention. |
History & Origins
The Balinese arose in the United States during the mid-20th century from longhaired kittens that appeared naturally in litters of purebred Siamese. Breeders, notably Marion Dorsey and Helen Smith in the 1950s and 60s, chose to develop these cats as a distinct breed rather than discard the trait. The name was inspired by the graceful poise of Balinese temple dancers, despite the cat having no connection to Indonesia. It gained championship recognition with US registries through the 1960s and 70s.
Balinese Fun Facts
- Its long coat comes from a recessive longhair gene carried within Siamese lines, so two shorthaired Siamese can produce Balinese kittens.
- Kittens are born almost white and develop their darker points gradually, as the pointed pattern is temperature-sensitive.
- The name references Balinese temple dancers and is purely poetic; the breed was created in America, not Bali.
- Despite the long hair, it lacks a woolly undercoat, so it tends to feel sleeker and shed less than many other longhaired cats.
Balinese Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Progressive retinal atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy can occur in this breed and may need veterinary monitoring.
Care: Discuss prevention and treatment with your vet.
Asthma
Asthma can occur in this breed and may need veterinary monitoring.
Care: Discuss prevention and treatment with your vet.
Dental disease
Plaque and tartar build-up leads to gum infection and tooth loss.
Care: Brush teeth regularly and schedule professional dental cleanings as your vet advises.
Every cat deserves a chance
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