The Himalayan cat breed: Your guide to the fluffiest felines

Himalayan cats, or Himmies as they’re affectionately called, reign supreme in the world of snuggly, fluffy felines. We’re uncovering the mysteries beneath the Himmie’s fur coat and bringing you everything you need to know about the Himalayan breed, from personality and appearance to tips on how to care for these majestic fur balls.

Himalayan cat facts

Origin: Despite the name, Himalayan cats don’t hail from the Asian mountain range, but were developed by an American breeder in the United States. The first Himalayan cat was born in 1931. 

Size: A medium to large Himalayan cat will weigh between 7-14 pounds and measure 12-16 inches.

Character: Gentle, calm, and affectionate. 

Grooming: The Himalayan domestic cat requires daily brushing.

Health needs: Being a flat-faced breed, Himalayans are prone to a number of health issues including polycystic kidney disease (PKD) and brachycephalic airway syndrome.

Energy levels: Low to moderate. 

Intelligence: Relatively smart.

Himalayan cat lifespan: 9-15 years.

Noise levels: Himalayans are relatively quiet cats.

What does a Himalayan cat look like?

The handsome Himalayan is a cross between a Persian and a Siamese, so appearances can vary depending on which of the genes they pick up more of. They usually inherit their long, silky coats from their Persian ancestors, while the dramatic color points around their face and tail are all thanks to their Siamese side, as are their bright blue eyes. 

Himmies strut their stuff in a variety of colors, typically sporting white or cream-colored bodies with darker markings around the face, ears, tail, and legs. Known as colored points, these accents come in shades of chocolate, seal, lilac, blue, red, and cream. 

Although it’s possible to get a shorthair Himalayan cat, they typically have luxuriously long hair and thick coats that make them look far bigger than they really are. Their bodies are muscular and solid, but care should be taken so that they don’t become overweight. 

Himalayan cat personality

Himalayans are the gentle giants of the cat world: sweet, friendly, and extremely affectionate. Win their hearts, and you can expect to be dishing out lots of cuddles and pets, though they may be a little shy around new faces. They tend to be quite laid-back and sleepy, but sudden bursts of energy will have them running around the room with the cutest zoomies. Don’t mistake their chilled personality for laziness – they also love to play!

Himalayan cat health

Himalayan cats are unfortunately prone to a number of health conditions, including: 

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): PKD causes cysts to form on the cat’s kidneys, which can lead to bacterial infections and irreversible kidney damage if left untreated.

Brachycephalic airway syndrome: As a flat-faced breed, Himalayans have an increased risk of respiratory problems such as asthma and difficulty breathing, as well as sensitivity to heat. 

Eye conditions: Himalayan cats often have very watery eyes that can cause tear staining, known as epiphora. They are also at risk of developing progressive atrophy, a serious condition that can lead to blindness. 

To keep your Himalayan in top shape, make sure they stay active and healthy and take them for regular vet check-ups. 

What’s the ideal human for a Himalayan cat?

Himalayans are generally quiet cats that prefer living in a home that matches their calm, serene nature. They can get on well with older children who won’t play too rough and they also enjoy the company of other pet pals, so long as they’re friendly. Perfect for like-minded homebodies, these cats adore being around their humans so they suit pet parents who spend lots of time at home. For times when you can’t be there, line up a trusted cat sitter who is as loving and attentive as you are, so very little has to change for your furry friend while you’re away.

Himalayan cat grooming 

Himalayan cats have beautiful fluffy coats, but all that fur doesn’t come for free! Daily grooming is a must if you want to keep them looking their best – luckily, as lovers of attention and affection, they shouldn’t kick up too much of a fuss!

Tackle their soft, cotton-like fur daily with a wide-toothed comb that’s strong enough to get through those tangles and mats. Regular grooming will not only minimize the amount of hair you find around the house (though your vacuum cleaner will still be busy!), but it also helps prevent your furry feline from getting hairballs. 

As well as daily brushing, keep your Himmie’s face clean to avoid tear stains, trim their nails regularly, and clean their ears carefully to avoid a build-up of dirt. Treat your feline friend to a professional grooming session every so often so they can enjoy the full pamper package! 

History of the Himalayan cat breed

At some point in the 1920s, Virginia Cobb and Dr. Clyde Keeler began working on a breed that would blend the Persian’s pointed patterning with the general appearance of a Siamese. By 1931, voilà! Their first Himalayan kitty, named “Newton’s Debutante”, had been born.

However, recognition of the breed didn’t go so smoothly. Although the Himalayan was acknowledged by the Cat Fanciers Association in 1957, they backtracked in 1984 to classify it as a variety of Persian. While The International Cat Association (TICA) also followed suit, associations like the American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA) have given the Himalayan its own category.

Getting a Himalayan cat

Himmies are one of the most popular pedigree cats, but the decision to own one shouldn’t be taken lightly. As one of the most high-maintenance cat breeds, Himalayans need a certain type of pet parent – one who can commit to daily grooming and care and spend plenty of time at home with them. 

While bursts of energy can mean they’re playful at times, Himmies spend a lot of their time snoozing. As this can lead to weight gain, pet parents should encourage their furry friends to play using interactive toys and games that will stimulate their natural hunting instincts. Care should also be taken when deciding what to feed a Himalayan cat – your vet will be able to recommend the best diet based on your furry feline’s age, weight, and activity levels.