Siamese cats are one of the most popular and recognizable breeds of cats in the world. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with a pointed coat pattern, blue eyes, and slender body. They are also known for their personality, which is often described as intelligent, vocal, and loyal.
But where did these beautiful cats come from, and what makes them so special? In this article, we will explore the history and culture of Siamese cats, and discover how they became a fascinating breed with a royal legacy.
The Origin of Siamese Cats
The origin of Siamese cats is shrouded in mystery and legend. Some sources claim that they originated in ancient Egypt, where they were revered as sacred animals and associated with the goddess Bastet. Others claim that they originated in Southeast Asia, where they were kept by Buddhist monks and royalty.
The most widely accepted theory is that Siamese cats are native to Thailand, formerly known as Siam. The earliest evidence of Siamese cats can be found in ancient manuscripts called the Tamra Maew, or the Cat Book Poems, which date back to the 14th century. These manuscripts depict various types of cats, including some that resemble Siamese cats, and describe their characteristics and behaviors.
According to the Tamra Maew, Siamese cats were highly valued and respected by the Siamese people, especially the royal family. They were believed to have supernatural powers and to bring good luck and fortune. They were also considered to be the guardians of the royal palace and the souls of the deceased kings.
The Export of Siamese Cats
Siamese cats remained a well-kept secret in Thailand for centuries, until the 19th century, when the country opened up to the Western world. The first documented Siamese cat to leave Thailand was a gift from King Rama IV to the British consul-general in Bangkok in 1878. The cat, named Pho, was accompanied by another Siamese cat, named Mia, who was intended for the consul-general’s sister.
Pho and Mia arrived in London and caused a sensation among the British public, who had never seen such exotic and elegant cats before. They were exhibited at the Crystal Palace Cat Show in 1879, where they attracted the attention of many cat fanciers and breeders. Soon, Siamese cats became a coveted and fashionable breed in Britain and other European countries.
The popularity of Siamese cats spread to America in the early 20th century, when the American president Theodore Roosevelt and his daughter Alice owned a Siamese cat named Siam. Siam was reportedly the first Siamese cat to enter the White House, and was said to be very affectionate and loyal to his owners.
The Development of Siamese Cats
As Siamese cats became more popular and widespread, they also underwent some changes and variations. The original Siamese cats had a more moderate and muscular body type, and a wider range of coat colors and patterns. However, some breeders preferred a more refined and elegant look, and selectively bred Siamese cats with a more slender and elongated body, a wedge-shaped head, and a narrower range of colors and patterns.
This resulted in two distinct types of Siamese cats: the traditional or old-style Siamese, and the modern or show-style Siamese. The traditional Siamese is closer to the original appearance and temperament of the Siamese cats from Thailand, while the modern Siamese is more exaggerated and refined. Both types are recognized and accepted by different cat associations and registries, and have their own fans and admirers.
Another development of Siamese cats was the creation of new breeds that were derived from or influenced by Siamese cats. Some of these breeds include the Balinese, the Himalayan, the Birman, the Tonkinese, the Oriental, and the Ragdoll. These breeds share some traits and characteristics with Siamese cats, such as the pointed coat pattern, the blue eyes, or the vocal and social personality.
The Culture of Siamese Cats
Siamese cats are not only a beautiful and unique breed of cats, but also a rich and diverse culture. Siamese cats have inspired and influenced many aspects of art, literature, music, and film, both in Thailand and around the world.
One of the most famous examples of Siamese cats in culture is the novel and film The King and I, which is based on the true story of Anna Leonowens, a British governess who worked for King Mongkut of Siam in the 1860s. In the film, Anna receives a pair of Siamese cats as a gift from the king, and names them Tuptim and Tusker. The cats are portrayed as loyal and intelligent companions, who help Anna and the king overcome their cultural differences and form a friendship.
Another example of Siamese cats in culture is the Disney animated film Lady and the Tramp, which features two Siamese cats named Si and Am. The cats are depicted as mischievous and troublemaking villains, who antagonize the main characters and sing a catchy song called “The Siamese Cat Song”. The song and the characters have become iconic and memorable, but also controversial and criticized for their stereotypical and racist portrayal of Asian culture.
A more positive and realistic example of Siamese cats in culture is the documentary film The Legend of the Sacred Cat of Burma, which tells the story of the Birman cat, a breed that is closely related to Siamese cats. The film explores the history and origin of the Birman cat, which is said to have been brought from Burma to France by a pair of adventurers in the early 20th century. The film also showcases the beauty and personality of the Birman cat, and its role as a sacred and revered animal in Burma.
The Conclusion
Siamese cats are more than just a breed of cats. They are a fascinating and complex phenomenon, with a long and rich history, a diverse and evolving appearance, and a vibrant and influential culture. They are a breed that has captivated and enchanted people from all walks of life, from royalty to commoners, from artists to scientists, from East to West.
If you are a fan of Siamese cats, or if you are curious to learn more about them, you can find plenty of resources and information online or offline. You can also visit a cat show or a cat shelter, where you can see and interact with Siamese cats and other related breeds. You might even consider adopting or fostering a Siamese cat, and giving it a loving and caring home.
Siamese cats are a breed that deserves our respect and admiration, as well as our love and affection. They are a breed that has a royal legacy, but also a humble and friendly nature. They are a breed that will enrich and enhance your life, with their beauty, intelligence, and personality.
